Recording device and conveying device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a recording apparatus and a conveying apparatus. It is possible to degrade the tackiness of a conveying belt (20) at the time of detection. The recording apparatus is characterized by including: a recording section capable of performing recording on a medium; a conveying belt provided with a tackifier capable of adhering the medium, and capable of conveying the medium; an ultrasonic sensor that transmits ultrasonic waves to a surface of the tackifier and receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the surface; and a control section capable of judging a state of the surface based on a detection result of the ultrasonic sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to recording devices and conveying devices. Background Technology

[0002] As shown in Patent Document 1, there are known recording devices that use a detection roller that contacts an adhesive conveyor belt to detect changes in adhesiveness.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-315824

[0004] However, the recording device described in Patent Document 1 may cause the adhesion to deteriorate because the detection roller comes into contact with the conveyor belt during detection. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The recording device includes: a recording unit capable of recording on a medium; a conveyor belt provided with an adhesive for adhering the medium and capable of conveying the medium; an ultrasonic sensor that transmits ultrasonic waves to the surface of the adhesive and receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the surface; and a control unit capable of determining the state of the surface based on the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor.

[0006] The conveying device includes: a conveyor belt, an adhesive for adhering a medium, and a medium for conveying the medium; an ultrasonic sensor including a transmitting part for transmitting ultrasonic waves to the surface of the adhesive and a receiving part for receiving ultrasonic waves reflected from the surface; and a control unit capable of determining the state of the surface based on the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the recording device according to the embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the recording device according to the embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of adhesive detection using an ultrasonic sensor.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a characteristic diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the working time of the recording device and the detection results of the adhesive by the ultrasonic sensor.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic sensor and a receiving unit.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method used by the control unit.

[0013] Figure 7This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the conveying device according to the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the conveying device according to the embodiment.

[0015] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0016] 1…Recording device, 2…Conveying device, 3…External device, 10…Control unit, 11…Storage unit, 12…Ultrasonic sensor, 12a…Transmitting unit, 12b…Receiving unit, 13…Recording unit, 14…Conveying unit, 15…Communication unit, 16…Reporting unit, 20…Conveyor belt, 20a…Outgoing belt surface, 20b…Return belt surface, 20c…Detected area, 30…Cleaning unit, 31…Wiping unit, 31b…Adjusting unit, 32…Drying unit, 33…Applying unit, G…Glue, GS…Glue surface, M…Media, S…Transmitting wave, R…Receiving wave. Detailed Implementation

[0017] 1. Implementation Method

[0018] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that a three-dimensional coordinate system in which the X, Y, and Z axes are orthogonal is used to explain the directions in the figures. Here, the direction along the X-axis is defined as the X direction, the direction along the Y-axis as the Y direction, and the direction along the Z-axis as the Z direction. For ease of explanation, the positive direction of the Z direction is referred to as the up direction or simply up, and the negative direction as the down direction or simply down; the positive direction of the X direction is referred to as the right direction or simply right, and the negative direction as the left direction or simply left; the positive direction of the Y direction is referred to as the forward direction or simply forward, and the negative direction as the backward direction or simply backward.

[0019] 1-1. Composition of the recording device

[0020] like Figure 1 As shown, the recording device 1 is configured to include a control unit 10, a storage unit 11, an ultrasonic sensor 12, a recording unit 13, a transport unit 14, a communication unit 15, a reporting unit 16, a cleaning unit 30, a wiping unit 31, a drying unit 32, and a receiving unit 33. (See also...) Figure 2 The configuration of the recording device 1 will be explained.

[0021] It should be noted that, as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the conveying device 2 is configured in the recording device 1 with at least the recording section 13 removed. The configuration of the conveying device 2 is the same as that of the recording device 1 described below, except for the recording section 13.

[0022] The control unit 10 is configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that uniformly controls all parts of the recording device 1, a UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter) that manages input and output, and an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or PLD (Programmable Logic Device) as logic circuitry. The CPU is also called a processor.

[0023] The storage unit 11 is configured to include flash memory (Read Only Memory) or HDD (Hard Disk Drive) as non-volatile memory that can be rewritten, or RAM (Random Access Memory) as volatile memory.

[0024] The CPU of the control unit 10 reads the firmware and other programs stored in the non-volatile memory of the storage unit 11, and uses the RAM of the storage unit 11 as a working area to execute them.

[0025] Figure 2 The medium M shown is, as an example, a long strip of fabric made of natural or synthetic fibers. This long strip of fabric is also called the raw fabric. The recording device 1 records onto the medium M. Recording onto the fabric is also called printing, and the medium M is also called the material being printed. It should be noted that the medium M can also be ordinary paper, synthetic paper, or film, etc.

[0026] like Figure 2 As shown, the conveying unit 14 is configured to include an annular conveyor belt 20, a drive roller 14a, and a driven roller 14b. The conveying unit 14 uses a conveyor motor (not shown) to rotate the drive roller 14a counterclockwise, and the driven roller 14b also rotates counterclockwise. The conveyor belt 20, mounted on the drive roller 14a and the driven roller 14b, also rotates counterclockwise as the direction of rotation. The driving and driven relationships of the drive roller 14a and the driven roller 14b can also be reversed.

[0027] It should be noted that, as Figure 2 As shown, starting from the drive roller 14a of the conveyor section 14, the cleaning section 30, ultrasonic sensor 12, wiping section 31, drying section 32, imparting section 33, and recording section 13 are arranged sequentially from upstream to downstream in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20. The reverse order is from downstream to upstream in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20.

[0028] In addition, in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20, the direction in which the medium M is carried and moves from the driven roller 14b toward the drive roller 14a is designated as the outgoing direction, and the direction in which the medium M is stripped and moves from the drive roller 14a toward the driven roller 14b is designated as the return direction.

[0029] As described below, a glue G, which acts as an adhesive, is provided on the surface of the conveyor belt 20 to adhere the medium M. The glue G may be, for example, composed of silicone resin.

[0030] like Figure 2 As shown, the surface of the conveyor belt 20 that moves in the outgoing direction is designated as the outgoing belt surface 20a, and the surface of the conveyor belt 20 that moves in the return direction is designated as the return belt surface 20b.

[0031] The conveyor belt 20 can adhere and fix the medium M with adhesive G, enabling stable transport. In addition, the conveyor belt 20 can also easily peel off the recorded medium M.

[0032] The medium M drawn from the roller body M1, which is wound into a roller shape, is placed on the outgoing belt surface 20a of the conveying section 14 under the control of the control unit 10 and is conveyed.

[0033] It should be noted that the conveying unit 14 may also include at least one of a feeding device and a winding device. The feeding device draws the medium M from the roller body M1 at a position close to the driven roller 14b, and the winding device winds the medium M stripped from the outgoing belt surface 20a at a position close to the drive roller 14a.

[0034] like Figure 2 As shown, the recording unit 13 is configured to include an inkjet printhead 13a and a carriage 13b. The carriage 13b includes a carriage motor. The recording device 1 is capable of loading ink cartridges or ink cans containing inks of various colors, such as CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black), which are ink colors.

[0035] The recording unit 13 is equipped with a supply mechanism that supplies ink from ink cartridges or the like to the inkjet head. The supply mechanism supplies ink of various colors from ink cartridges or the like to the nozzles corresponding to the inkjet head 13a.

[0036] The inkjet head 13a is mounted on the carriage 13b and moves back and forth on the medium M together with the carriage 13b via a carriage motor. Under the control of the control unit 10 based on the recording data, the inkjet head 13a can move on the medium M while ejecting ink from the nozzle to record on the medium M.

[0037] It should be noted that the ink color can also be any combination of four or more colors, including shades of CMYK.

[0038] Alternatively, the inkjet head 13a may also include a nozzle that ejects the impregnation liquid towards the medium M. The impregnation liquid is a liquid that promotes the penetration of ink adhering to the surface of the medium M to the back side.

[0039] The cleaning unit 30 is located downstream of the drive roller 14a in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20. The cleaning unit 30 is capable of removing ink or foreign matter adhering to the return belt surface 20b of the conveyor belt 14 after the recording by the recording unit 13 has ended and the medium M has been peeled off.

[0040] The cleaning unit 30 is configured to include a cleaning brush and a rotary brush motor (not shown) for rotating the cleaning brush. Under the control of the control unit 10, the cleaning unit 30 can distribute cleaning fluid, such as water, supplied to the cleaning brush while rotating the cleaning brush to contact the return belt surface 20b and perform cleaning.

[0041] The cleaning container 30a stores cleaning fluid while simultaneously draining it, maintaining a constant fluid level. The cleaning brush of the cleaning unit 30 is immersed to a fixed depth in the cleaning fluid stored in the cleaning container 30a, removing any foreign matter or other contaminants that adhere to it during cleaning.

[0042] It should be noted that the cleaning brush can also be a rotating brush, or it can be a cylindrical cloth or sponge, bristles, plate-shaped rubber or resin, etc.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown, at least one ultrasonic sensor 12 is configured to include a transmitting section 12a as a transmitter that transmits a transmitted wave S and a receiving section 12b as a receiver that receives a received wave R. The ultrasonic sensor 12 uses ultrasonic waves, for example, 30 kHz or even 10 MHz. The transmitted wave S transmitted from the transmitting section 12a is reflected on the return band surface 20b and becomes the received wave R, which is received by the receiving section 12b.

[0044] The ultrasonic sensor 12 can detect the distance up to the return band 20b in a non-contact manner by utilizing the time from the transmission wave S transmitted through the transmitter 12a to the reception wave R received through the receiver 12b. The control unit 10 can easily and accurately determine the state of the return band 20b by utilizing the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor 12, depending on the state of the return band 20b.

[0045] Specifically, when the ultrasonic sensor 12 transmits ultrasonic waves from the transmitting unit 12a toward the adhesive surface GS (described later), which serves as the return belt surface 20b, the time until the receiving unit 12b receives the ultrasonic waves reflected and returned from the adhesive surface GS is longer when the adhesive G is consumed due to peeling, compared to the case where the adhesive G is not consumed. Therefore, the distance detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12 is longer. The adhesive G is consumed, for example, because the medium M is peeled off from the outgoing belt surface 20a or because the return belt surface 20b is cleaned by the cleaning unit 30.

[0046] The control unit 10 can use the ultrasonic sensor 12 to detect the distance at least for a portion of the return belt surface 20b to determine the overall degree of rubber G deterioration of the conveyor belt 20.

[0047] Thus, according to the embodiment, the ultrasonic sensor 12, by using ultrasound, can detect the state of the adhesive G on the conveyor belt 20 being consumed due to peeling in a non-contact manner. Therefore, the ultrasonic sensor 12 can perform detection without affecting the adhesive G on the conveyor belt 20.

[0048] The ultrasonic sensor 12 is configured to detect at least a portion of the return belt surface 20b, i.e., the detected area 20c, in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20 from downstream of the cleaning section 30 to upstream of the wiping section 31.

[0049] The distance from the return surface 20b after being cleaned by the cleaning unit 30 to the point where the ultrasonic sensor 12 detects the return surface 20b in the detection area 20c. The control unit 10 can determine, based on the detection results of the ultrasonic sensor 12, the state of the return surface 20b, such as the thickness of the adhesive G on the return surface 20b, and the state of foreign matter such as cleaning fluid droplets adhering to the return surface 20b.

[0050] The detection distance or sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor 12 can be adjusted by the output power of the transmitting wave S of the transmitting unit 12a.

[0051] As described above, the ultrasonic sensor 12 is configured to detect the return belt surface 20b in a non-contact manner, and the detection distance can also be adjusted. Therefore, the ultrasonic sensor 12 only needs to be located at a position that can transmit and receive ultrasonic waves to the detected area 20c of the conveyor belt 20, and it does not necessarily need to be located at that position. Figure 2 The position shown. For example, the ultrasonic sensor 12 can also be disposed upstream of the cleaning unit 30, or downstream of any one of the wiping unit 31, drying unit 32, and imparting unit 33.

[0052] Here, refer to Figure 3An example will be given of the control unit 10 determining the thickness of adhesive G, which is the state of the return surface 20b, based on the detection results of the ultrasonic sensor 12.

[0053] The ultrasonic sensor 12 is able to detect the distance D up to the return band surface 20b of the object being detected based on the speed of the ultrasonic wave used and the time from the transmission of the transmitted wave S to the reception of the received wave R.

[0054] It should be noted that the control unit 10 can also control the ultrasonic sensor 12 to send a transmitted wave S and receive a received wave R, obtain the time during this period, and calculate the distance D to the return surface 20b based on the speed of the ultrasonic wave.

[0055] Figure 3 Three different thicknesses of adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b are shown. For example... Figure 3 As shown, when the ultrasonic sensor 12 transmits the transmitted wave S toward the return belt surface 20b through the transmitting unit 12a, the transmitted wave S is reflected on the adhesive surface GS, which is the surface of the adhesive G, and becomes the received wave R, which is received by the receiving unit 12b.

[0056] exist Figure 3 On the Z-axis of the coordinate system shown, the distance from the position of the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the return surface 20b of the object being detected is defined as the distance D detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12. It should be noted that the position of the ultrasonic sensor 12 is set to (distance D = 0).

[0057] Figure 3 The left side of the diagram shows a state where there is sufficient adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b. For example, the thickness of the adhesive G is 0.2 to 0.3 mm. This illustrates a state where the conveyor belt 20 is adequately equipped with adhesive G, whether it is a new product or a product where the user has adequately applied adhesive G to the conveyor belt 20.

[0058] With sufficient adhesive G on the return surface 20b, the ultrasonic sensor 12 can detect a first distance D1 from the position of the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the return surface 20b based on the time from the transmission of the transmitting wave S to the reception of the receiving wave R.

[0059] Figure 3 The middle method, relative to the left method, represents the state where the recording device 1 continues to operate and the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b has been consumed. This reaches a state where, for example, the thickness of the adhesive G has decreased to 0.1 mm, it is necessary to replace the conveyor belt 20 with a new one or apply adhesive G to the conveyor belt 20. When the conveyor belt 20 continues to be used in this state, the medium M on the outgoing belt surface 20a may slip.

[0060] When the adhesive G on the return band 20b has been consumed, the ultrasonic sensor 12 can detect a second distance D2 from its position to the return band 20b based on the time from the transmission of the transmitted wave S to the reception of the received wave R. It should be noted that the first distance D1 is less than the second distance D2.

[0061] Figure 3 The right-hand side represents the state where the adhesive G on the return band surface 20b is depleted. In this case, when the ultrasonic sensor 12 transmits a transmitted wave S towards the return band surface 20b via the transmitting unit 12a, since there is no adhesive G, the transmitted wave S is reflected on the return band surface 20b itself and becomes a received wave R, which is received by the receiving unit 12b.

[0062] When the adhesive G on the return band 20b is depleted, the ultrasonic sensor 12 can detect a third distance D3 from its position to the return band 20b based on the time from the transmission of the transmitted wave S to the reception of the received wave R. It should be noted that the second distance D2 is less than the third distance D3.

[0063] The third distance D3 can also be the return belt surface 20b of the state of glue G depletion detected in advance by ultrasonic sensor 12, and stored in the storage unit 11 in advance.

[0064] In addition, as described later, the user can also pre-store the second distance D2 and the third distance D3 in the storage unit 11 via the touch panel of the reporting unit 16 or the external device 3, so that they can be used when the control unit 10 determines the state of the return belt surface 20b.

[0065] The control unit 10 compares the distance D detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12 with the predetermined distance, i.e., the second distance D2, stored in the storage unit 11. When the distance D ≥ the second distance D2, it can be determined that the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b has been consumed, and the adhesive G of the entire conveyor belt 20 has also been consumed. At this time, the control unit 10 can report information through the reporting unit 16 (described later) indicating that the conveyor belt 20 needs to be replaced or that adhesive G needs to be applied to the conveyor belt 20.

[0066] Furthermore, the control unit 10 compares the detected distance D with the second distance D2. If distance D < second distance D2, it can determine that the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b is sufficient, and the adhesive G of the entire conveyor belt 20 is also sufficient. At this time, the control unit 10 can report the information that the adhesive G of the conveyor belt 20 is sufficient through the reporting unit 16.

[0067] The control unit 10 can also calculate the thickness of the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b by comparing the distance D detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12 with the third distance D3 stored in the storage unit 11.

[0068] An example of how the control unit 10 calculates the thickness of the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b will be explained. Figure 3 In the case of the left-hand method, the ultrasonic sensor 12 detects the distance D up to the adhesive surface GS as the first distance D1. The control unit 10 compares this distance with the third distance D3 when the adhesive G stored in the storage unit 11 is exhausted, and can calculate the thickness of the adhesive G as ((third distance D3 - first distance D1) = G1).

[0069] In this situation, since the thickness G1 of the glue G calculated by the control unit 10 is 0.2 or even 0.3 mm, it can determine that there is sufficient glue G on the return belt surface 20b and sufficient glue G on the entire conveyor belt 20.

[0070] Similarly, in Figure 3 In the intermediate mode, the ultrasonic sensor 12 detects the distance D up to the adhesive surface GS as the second distance D2. The control unit 10 compares the second distance D2 stored in the storage unit 11 and can calculate the thickness of the adhesive G as ((third distance D3 - second distance D2) = G2).

[0071] In this situation, since the thickness G2 of the adhesive G calculated by the control unit 10 is less than 0.1 mm, it can determine that the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b has been consumed, and the adhesive G of the entire conveyor belt 20 has also been consumed.

[0072] It should be noted that, in Figure 3 In the middle mode, it is shown that as the recording device 1 continues to operate, the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b relative to the left mode has been consumed, so the thickness of adhesive G becomes (G2 < G1) and becomes thinner.

[0073] exist Figure 3 In the case shown on the right, the operation of the recording device 1 continues further until the thickness of the adhesive G disappears, becoming ((third distance D3 - third distance D3) = 0).

[0074] exist Figure 4 The diagram shows the coordinates where the working time of the recording device 1 is set as t on the horizontal axis, and the time-varying distance D from the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the adhesive surface GS of the return belt 20b is set as Z on the vertical axis.

[0075] exist Figure 4The (t1, D1) diagram shows the first distance D1 detected by the ultrasonic sensor at t1 before the recording device 1 is operational.

[0076] The first distance D1 indicates the initial state where there is sufficient adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b. The control unit 10 can determine, based on the first distance D1 detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12, that there is sufficient adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b.

[0077] Recording device 1 continues to operate, and in (t2, D2), during the operating time t2 of recording device 1, the second distance D2 detected by ultrasonic sensor 12 is shown.

[0078] The second distance D2 indicates that the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b has been consumed. The control unit 10 can determine, based on the second distance D2 detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12, that the recording device 1 is still operating and the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b has been consumed.

[0079] Furthermore, since the overall adhesive G of the conveyor belt 20 is insufficient after working time t2, the control unit 10 can also determine that slippage may begin to occur between the outgoing belt surface 20a and the medium M, which may result in poor recording. The control unit 10 can also stop the recording unit 13 and the conveying unit 14.

[0080] Furthermore, when the recording device 1 continues to operate and reaches (t3, D3), during the operating time t3 of the recording device 1, the adhesive G is exhausted, indicating a third distance D3 from the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the return belt surface 20b. The control unit 10 can determine that the adhesive G of the entire conveyor belt 20 is exhausted, resulting in frequent slippage between the outgoing belt surface 20a and the medium M, and most of the medium M becomes poorly recorded. The control unit 10 can then stop the recording unit 13 and the conveying unit 14.

[0081] Storage unit 11 can pre-store Figure 4 The distance D detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12 is shown as a relationship with the time elapsed of the working time of the recording device 1.

[0082] The control unit 10 can predict the overall state of the conveyor belt 20 corresponding to the future working time of the recording device 1 based on the relationship between the distance D stored in the storage unit 11 and the time change of the working time of the recording device 1.

[0083] Specifically, the control unit 10 can determine the period of total rubber G consumption of the conveyor belt 20 based on the distance D detected by the current ultrasonic sensor 12, by referring to the storage unit 11 and based on the relationship between the distance D and the working time of the recording device 1.

[0084] The control unit 10 can report information such as the working time until the glue G is consumed, the time when the conveyor belt 20 should be replaced, and the time when the glue G should be applied to the conveyor belt 20 through the reporting unit 16 (described later). In addition, when the time when the conveyor belt 20 should be replaced or the time when the glue G should be applied to the conveyor belt 20 is approaching, the control unit 10 can also report information reminding people to make these preparations.

[0085] The relationship between distance D and the operating time of recording device 1 varies depending on the type of medium M. Storage unit 11 can also pre-store the relationship between distance D and the operating time of recording device 1 according to the type of medium M.

[0086] As described later, the user can specify the type of medium M via the touch panel of the reporting unit 16 or the external device 3. The control unit 10 can also read from the storage unit 11 the relationship between the distance D corresponding to the specified type of medium M and the time change of the recording device 1 over time, and predict such a period.

[0087] However, when the conveying unit 14 is equipped with a winding device as described above, the sensor can be included to detect the peeling angle of the medium M being peeled off from the outgoing conveyor surface 20a. This peeling angle is set as the angle between the outgoing conveyor surface 20a and the peeled medium M.

[0088] For example, if the sensor is an ultrasonic sensor, the control unit 10 can calculate the stripping angle of the medium M stripped from the outgoing belt surface 20a by detecting the distance from the medium M stripped from the predetermined position in a non-contact manner.

[0089] As the adhesive G on the outgoing belt surface 20a continues to be consumed and its adhesiveness continues to deteriorate, the medium M is peeled off from the outgoing belt surface 20a further upstream in the circumferential direction. In other words, as the adhesive G on the outgoing belt surface 20a continues to be consumed, the peeling angle of the medium M becomes smaller. It should be noted that the influence of the type of medium M is also reflected in the peeling angle of the medium M.

[0090] The control unit 10 can determine the state of the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b using the ultrasonic sensor 12, and can determine the adhesion of the adhesive G on the outgoing belt surface 20a using the aforementioned sensor that detects the peel angle of the medium M. The control unit 10 can use these two sensors to determine the degradation of the adhesive G on the conveyor belt 20, which also reflects the influence of the type of medium M, providing a more reliable assessment.

[0091] For example, the control unit 10 can more reliably determine that the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b has been consumed using the ultrasonic sensor 12, and can more reliably determine the deterioration of the adhesive G on the conveyor belt 20 when the adhesion of the adhesive G on the outgoing belt surface 20a has decreased using the aforementioned sensor. The control unit 10 can also report at a more appropriate time through the reporting unit 16.

[0092] Back Figure 2 The description of the configuration of device 1 continues. The return belt surface 20b, after being cleaned by the cleaning unit 30, is then wiped clean of any adhering cleaning fluid or foreign matter by the wiping unit 31. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the wiping section 31 is disposed upstream of the recording section 13 downstream of the cleaning section 30 in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20. The wiping section 31 is configured to include a wiping blade 31a and an adjustment section 31b. It should be noted that the wiping blade 31a may be a wiper-shaped rubber or a plate-shaped resin, etc.

[0093] As the conveyor belt 20 conveys the material, the wiping disc 31a can contact the return belt surface 20b at its tip while wiping the moving return belt surface 20b. The adjustment unit 31b is configured to be able to adjust the position of the wiping disc 31a up and down under the control of the control unit 10.

[0094] The control unit 10 can control the position of the wiping sheet 31a by adjusting the adjustment unit 31b based on the state of the return surface 20b, which is the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor 12, and adjust the load when the wiping sheet 31a contacts the return surface 20b.

[0095] As the wiping pad 31a moves upward, the load on the contact surface 20b of the wiping pad 31a increases, resulting in vigorous wiping. As the wiping pad 31a moves downward, the load on the contact surface 20b of the wiping pad 31a decreases, resulting in gentle wiping.

[0096] In this way, the control unit 10 can control the position of the wiping plate 31a through the adjustment unit 31b, and adjust the wiping state of the wiping plate 31a on the return belt surface 20b.

[0097] As described above, adhesive G is provided on the surface of the conveyor belt 20. As the load on the wiping pad 31a in contact with the return belt surface 20b increases, the wiping effect of the cleaning fluid or the like adhering to the return belt surface 20b becomes more effective; however, the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b is easily consumed. Conversely, when the load decreases, the opposite trend is observed.

[0098] The control unit 10 can pre-set the wiping pad 31a at a predetermined position that allows it to contact the return belt surface 20b with a predetermined load via the adjustment unit 31b. The control unit 10 can control the adjustment unit 31b based on the detection results of the ultrasonic sensor 12 to reduce the load on the wiping pad 31a of the wiping unit 31.

[0099] Specifically, when the control unit 10 determines, based on the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor 12, that the consumption of adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b is continuous, it controls the adjustment unit 31b to continuously or gradually move the position of the wiping plate 31a of the wiping unit 31 downwards from a predetermined position. The control unit 10 can continuously or gradually reduce the load of the wiping plate 31a on the return belt surface 20b based on the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor 12. The control unit 10 can control the wiping unit 31 based on the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor 12 to suppress the consumption of adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b.

[0100] The return belt surface 20b, which has been treated with wiping cleaning fluid by the wiping section 31, is dried by the drying section 32 to remove any remaining cleaning fluid. The drying section 32 is located downstream of the wiping section 31 and upstream of the recording section 13 in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20.

[0101] The drying section 32 is configured to include at least one of a blower or a heater. The drying section 32 is capable of drying the cleaning fluid adhering to the return belt surface 20b in a non-contact manner using at least one of the airflow from the blower or the heat from the heater.

[0102] The control unit 10 can control the output of the blower of the drying unit 32, such as the air volume per unit time or the wattage of the heater, based on the state of the return belt surface 20b detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12, and can adjust the drying state of the return belt surface 20b. For example, when the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b continues to be consumed, cleaning fluid is likely to remain on the return belt surface 20b. Therefore, the control unit 10 increases the air volume of the drying unit 32 or the output of the heater.

[0103] When the load on the return belt surface 20b by the wiping section 31 is reduced as described above, the control unit 10 can increase the output of the blower of the drying section 32, the air volume per unit time, the wattage of the heater, etc.

[0104] When the load on the wiping section 31 in contact with the return belt surface 20b is reduced, the wiping effect of the cleaning fluid adhering to the return belt surface 20b becomes less effective, resulting in more residual cleaning fluid. However, the drying of the cleaning fluid remaining on the return belt surface 20b can be promoted by increasing the output of the blower of the drying section 32, the air volume per unit time, the wattage of the heater, etc.

[0105] It should be noted that either the wiping section 31 or the drying section 32 is sufficient to remove a predetermined amount of cleaning fluid adhering to the return belt surface 20b, or only either the wiping section 31 or the drying section 32 may be provided. Alternatively, as long as the recording device 1 is set in a dry environment or similar environment, and the predetermined amount of cleaning fluid is removed by conveying the cleaned return belt surface 20b to the driven roller 14b or the recording section 13, the wiping section 31 and the drying section 32 may not be provided. Similarly, if the cleaning section 30 is not provided, the wiping section 31 and the drying section 32 may also be omitted.

[0106] The return belt surface 20b, which has been dried by the drying section 32, can be coated with adhesive G by the coating section 33. The coating section 33 is provided downstream of the drying section 32 and upstream of the recording section 13 in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20.

[0107] In the case of a drying section 32, it is preferable that the applicator 33 is located downstream of the drying section 32 in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20. The applicator 33 can apply adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b after the cleaning fluid has been dried. Therefore, compared with the case where adhesive G is applied while the cleaning fluid remains on the return belt surface 20b, the fixing properties of adhesive G on the conveyor belt 20 can be improved.

[0108] The applicator 33 is configured to include an applicator roller 33a and a moving part 33b. Adhesive G is coated on the surface of the applicator roller 33a. As the conveyor belt 20 is conveyed, the applicator roller 33a rotates while in contact with the moving return belt surface 20b, applying adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b. It should be noted that the control unit 10 preferably rotates the conveyor belt 20 at least one revolution while keeping the applicator roller 33a of the applicator 33 in contact with the return belt surface 20b. The applicator 33 can apply adhesive G throughout the entire conveying direction of the conveyor belt 20.

[0109] The moving part 33b is configured to move up and down at the position of the feeding roller 33a under the control of the control part 10. When no glue G is being applied, the control part 10 moves or retracts the feeding roller 33a to a lower position where it does not contact the return belt surface 20b.

[0110] When the control unit 10 applies adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b, it moves the application roller 33a upward via the moving part 33b to contact the return belt surface 20b. The control unit 10 can apply adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b by moving the application roller 33a to the position of contact with the return belt surface 20b via the moving part 33b.

[0111] It should be noted that the applicator 33 can also be configured as a storage tank for storing adhesive G, and the adhesive G is supplied from the storage tank to the applicator roller 33a.

[0112] The control unit 10 can adjust the position of the application roller 33a by adjusting the position of the moving part 33b, thereby adjusting the amount of adhesive G applied to the return belt surface 20b.

[0113] When the control unit 10 sets the applicator roller 33a to a position above the return belt surface 20b, where it is in strong contact with the return belt surface 20b, it can apply a large amount of adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b. Conversely, when the control unit 10 sets the applicator roller 33a to a position below the return belt surface 20b, where it is in slight contact with the return belt surface 20b, it can apply a small amount of adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b.

[0114] Furthermore, the control unit 10 can adjust the amount of adhesive G applied to the return belt surface 20b by changing the distance of the moving conveyor belt 20 while the applying roller 33a is in contact with the return belt surface 20b using the moving part 33b. The longer the distance between the applying roller 33a and the return belt surface 20b, the larger the amount of adhesive G applied. Additionally, the applying part 33 can be configured to have at least one nozzle from which adhesive G is ejected.

[0115] In this way, the control unit 10 can select whether to apply adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b via the application unit 33 based on the state of the return belt surface 20b detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12. Moreover, the control unit 10 can also adjust the amount of adhesive G applied to the return belt surface 20b based on the state of the return belt surface 20b detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12.

[0116] like Figure 5 As shown, multiple ultrasonic sensors 12 can detect the state of the return belt surface 20b at multiple positions in the direction intersecting with the left-right direction of the recording device 1, i.e. the transport direction of the medium M, and in the front-back direction of the recording device 1, i.e., along the width direction of the return belt surface 20b.

[0117] It should be noted that a single ultrasonic sensor 12 can also be mounted on a moving mechanism that moves in the front-back direction of the recording device 1, that is, along the width direction of the return belt surface 20b, and perform detection at multiple positions in the width direction of the return belt surface 20b. The following description will focus on the case where multiple ultrasonic sensors 12 are provided, but the same applies to the case where a single ultrasonic sensor 12 mounted on the moving mechanism performs detection at multiple positions.

[0118] Specifically, multiple ultrasonic sensors 12 can be installed at multiple locations in the direction intersecting the left-right direction of the recording device 1 (i.e., the transport direction of the medium M) and in the front-back direction of the recording device 1 (i.e., along the width direction of the return belt surface 20b). At these multiple locations, a distance D is detected up to the adhesive surface GS of the return belt surface 20b. Furthermore, the control unit 10 can determine, using the multiple ultrasonic sensors 12, that adhesive G at a specific location in the width direction of the return belt surface 20b has been consumed.

[0119] The control unit 10 can control the application unit 33 to apply adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b based on the detection results at multiple positions in the width direction of the return belt surface 20b by multiple ultrasonic sensors 12.

[0120] Specifically, the control unit 10 compares the distance D detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12 with the second distance D2 stored in the storage unit 11 at multiple positions in the width direction of the return belt surface 20b. For specific positions where the detection result is that distance D ≥ second distance D2, it determines that the adhesive G has been consumed. Then, the control unit 10 can control the moving part 33b of the application unit 33 to move the application roller 33a to the position that contacts the return belt surface 20b, and apply adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b.

[0121] like Figure 5 As shown, in the transport direction of the medium M, which is the left-right direction of the recording device 1, multiple supply units 33 can also be provided at positions corresponding to the multiple ultrasonic sensors 12. In other words, multiple supply units 33 can be provided at multiple positions in the front-back direction of the recording device 1, which is the direction intersecting with the left-right direction of the recording device 1, i.e., the transport direction of the medium M, i.e., along the width direction of the return belt surface 20b.

[0122] When the control unit 10 determines, through multiple ultrasonic sensors 12, that adhesive G at a specific position in the width direction of the return belt surface 20b has been consumed, it can select and control the corresponding application unit 33 at the specific position to apply adhesive G to the specific position of the return belt surface 20b.

[0123] The control unit 10 can select and control the application section 33 at a specific location where the adhesive G has been consumed among the multiple application sections 33, based on the detection results of the multiple ultrasonic sensors 12. The control unit 10 can automatically and appropriately apply adhesive G to the portion of the conveyor belt 20 that should be applied by selecting from the multiple application sections 33, thus improving convenience for the user.

[0124] It should be noted that the applicator can also be configured to have a sheet-shaped applicator instead of the applicator roller 33a, so that the top end contacts the return belt surface 20b and applies adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b. Alternatively, it can have bristles or the like instead of the applicator roller 33a.

[0125] Glue G can also be supplied from its storage tank to a sheet-shaped feeding device. In cases where Glue G is composed of multiple materials, a stirring device can be installed in the storage tank of Glue G to mix the multiple materials.

[0126] Alternatively, the supply unit 33 can be detachably installed on the recording device 1. The user can remove the supply unit 33 in advance when it is not in use. The user can install the supply unit 33 on the recording device 1 based on the report from the report unit 16 described later.

[0127] The user only needs to prepare glue G when loading the imparting unit 33 into the recording device 1, thus preventing glue G from deteriorating due to contact with air.

[0128] Figure 1 The communication unit 15 shown is configured to include a communication circuit capable of communicating with an external device 3 via wired or wireless communication. The external device 3 is, for example, a computer or a server. The communication unit 15 receives recorded data stored in the medium M from the external device 3. It should be noted that the recorded data can also be stored in the storage unit 11, or read from the storage medium using a reading device provided in the storage unit 11.

[0129] Furthermore, as described above, the communication unit 15 can receive, from the external device 3, a second distance D2 from the position of the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the return belt surface 20b where the adhesive G has been consumed, and a third distance D3 from the position of the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the return belt surface 20b where the adhesive G has been exhausted. The control unit 10 can store the second distance D2 and the third distance D3 received by the communication unit 15 in the storage unit 11 and use them when determining the state of the return belt surface 20b and the conveyor belt 20.

[0130] In addition, as described above, the communication unit 15 can store the type of medium M received by the user from the external device 3 into the storage unit 11.

[0131] like Figure 1 As shown, the recording device 1 includes a reporting unit 16 configured to include a touch panel. The reporting unit 16 may also include a speaker. Specifically, the reporting unit 16 can report to the user through the display of information such as messages based on the touch panel, or through sound based on the speaker.

[0132] As described above, the control unit 10 compares the distance D detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12 with the second distance D2 stored in the storage unit 11. When the distance D ≥ the second distance D2, the control unit 10 reports the information to the user through the reporting unit 16 that the conveyor belt 20 needs to be replaced and the conveyor belt 20 needs to be re-adjusted.

[0133] In addition, the control unit 10 can predict when the replacement period of the conveyor belt 20 is approaching and when the time for applying adhesive G to the conveyor belt 20 is approaching, and report this information to the user through the reporting unit 16.

[0134] It should be noted that when the distance D is less than the second distance D2, the control unit 10 can report the information indicating that the glue G is sufficient to the user through the reporting unit 16.

[0135] As described above, the control unit 10 can acquire the second distance D2 and the third distance D3 and store them in the storage unit 11 through the operation of the touch panel of the user's reporting unit 16.

[0136] In addition, as described above, the control unit 10 can also obtain the type of medium M and store it in the storage unit 11 through the user's operation of the touch panel of the reporting unit 16.

[0137] Furthermore, the user can also store only one of the second distance D2 or the third distance D3 in the storage unit 11 through instructions from the external device 3 or operation of the touch panel of the reporting unit 16. When the control unit 10 uses the second distance D2 to determine the state of the adhesive G on the conveyor belt 20, it can use the third distance D3 instead. In this case, the control unit 10 can also multiply the third distance D3 by, for example, 90%, and use it as a substitute for the second distance D2 in the determination. This ratio can also be set by the user through instructions from the external device 3 or operation of the touch panel of the reporting unit 16.

[0138] Alternatively, the user can set the ratio when the control unit 10 is used for judgment, provided that only the second distance D2 is stored. The ratio can be set via an instruction from the external device 3 or by operating the touch panel of the reporting unit 16. For example, if the user sets the second distance D2 to 90%, the control unit 10 can refer to the storage unit 11 and report to the reporting unit 16 that the second distance D2 is 90%.

[0139] In this way, the user can arbitrarily set the values ​​used by the control unit 10 in judging the state of the conveyor belt 20.

[0140] 1-2. Composition of the conveying device

[0141] like Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the conveying device 2 is configured such that at least the recording unit 13 is removed from the recording device 1, and common parts are referred to by common reference numerals. The conveying device 2 is configured to include a control unit 10, a storage unit 11, an ultrasonic sensor 12, a conveying unit 14, a communication unit 15, a reporting unit 16, a cleaning unit 30, a wiping unit 31, a drying unit 32, and a feeding unit 33.

[0142] The control unit 10 reads the firmware from the storage unit 11 and controls the transport of the medium M via the transport unit 14. Furthermore, the control unit 10 controls the following operations: cleaning of the surface of the conveyor belt 20 after transport, i.e., the return belt surface 20b, along the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20 by the cleaning unit 30; detection of the state of the return belt surface 20b by the ultrasonic sensor 12; wiping with cleaning fluid by the wiping unit 31 based on the detection results; drying by the drying unit 32; applying adhesive by the applying unit 33; and reporting by the reporting unit 16 or the communication unit 15.

[0143] The configuration of each part of the conveying device 2 is the same as that of the recording device 1 described above, so the description is omitted.

[0144] 1-3. Control methods for the recording device

[0145] by Figure 6 The flowchart shown is the center, with reference to the other side. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The control method of the recording device 1 will be explained.

[0146] The control unit 10 obtains the recorded data from the external device 3 through the communication unit 15, or obtains the recorded data from the storage unit 11 through the operation of the touch panel of the user's reporting unit 16.

[0147] When the control unit 10 acquires and records data, it transports the medium M via the conveying unit 14 (S101). Specifically, the control unit 10 drives the drive roller 14a to cause the conveyor belt 20 to wrap around in the wrapping direction. Adhesive G is provided on the surface of the conveyor belt 20, allowing the medium M to adhere, be fixed, and transported on the outgoing belt surface 20a.

[0148] When the control unit 10 conveys the medium M to the position of the recording unit 13 via the conveying unit 14, it records the data on the medium M via the recording unit 13 (S102). As will be described later, this process is not performed in the case of the conveying device 2.

[0149] The control unit 10 can also transport the medium M through the transport unit 14 and peel the medium M, which has finished recording by the recording unit 13, from the outgoing tape surface 20a.

[0150] The return belt surface 20b, from which the medium M has been peeled off, is cleaned by the cleaning unit 30 (S103). The return belt surface 20b can have foreign matter such as ink removed by the cleaning unit 30.

[0151] The ultrasonic sensor 12 detects at least a portion of the return belt surface 20b, i.e., the detected area 20c, in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20 from downstream of the cleaning section 30 to upstream of the wiping section 31.

[0152] The ultrasonic sensor 12 detects the distance D up to the return surface 20b (S104). The control unit 10 compares the distance D detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12 with the predetermined distance, i.e., the second distance D2, stored in the storage unit 11 (S105).

[0153] When the control unit 10 determines that the distance D is greater than or equal to the second distance D2 (S105: "Yes"), it can determine that the state of the return belt surface 20b is that the adhesive G has been consumed, and the entire conveyor belt 20 is also in a state where the adhesive G has been consumed. Furthermore, the control unit 10 can activate the reporting unit 16, the adjustment unit 31b of the wiping unit 31, the drying unit 32, or the imparting unit 33 (S106).

[0154] On the other hand, when the control unit 10 determines that the distance D < the second distance D2 (S105: "No"), it can determine that the state of the return belt surface 20b is that the glue G is sufficient, and the conveyor belt 20 as a whole is also in a state of sufficient glue G. The control unit 10 continues to detect the distance D up to the return belt surface 20b by the ultrasonic sensor 12.

[0155] The situation where the control unit 10 causes the reporting unit 16, the adjustment unit 31b of the wiping unit 31, the drying unit 32, or the imparting unit 33 to operate (S106) will be explained in detail.

[0156] The control unit 10 can report to the user via the reporting unit 16 the need to replace the conveyor belt 20 or to apply adhesive G to the conveyor belt 20.

[0157] Alternatively, the control unit 10 controls the adjustment unit 31b of the wiping unit 31 to adjust the position of the wiping pad 31a downwards. The load on the wiping pad 31a in contact with the return belt surface 20b is reduced, resulting in a lighter wiping. As a result, the wiping effect of the cleaning fluid adhering to the return belt surface 20b is reduced, but the consumption of adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b can be suppressed.

[0158] Alternatively, the control unit 10 can increase the air volume per unit time of the blower of the drying unit 32 or increase the output of the heater, etc., to promote the drying of the return belt surface 20b.

[0159] Alternatively, the control unit 10 can apply adhesive G to the return belt surface 20b via the application unit 33.

[0160] When the control unit 10 determines that the rubber G of the return belt surface 20b and the conveyor belt 20 has been consumed, it can cause at least one of them to operate.

[0161] Here, the control unit 10 controls the drying unit 32 in detail. First, it will be explained that the control unit 10 can detect the presence or absence of cleaning fluid adhering to the return belt surface 20b by means of the ultrasonic sensor 12.

[0162] When comparing the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b with the attached cleaning fluid, the thickness of the adhesive G is approximately 0.3 mm, as described above, while the thickness of the attached cleaning fluid is approximately 1 mm, which is greater than the thickness of the adhesive G. The control unit 10 can distinguish between the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b and the attached cleaning fluid by using the difference in distance D detected by the ultrasonic sensor 12.

[0163] Furthermore, the thickness of the adhesive G is uniform in the left-right direction of the recording device 1, that is, in the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 20. On the other hand, the cleaning fluid locally adheres to the return belt surface 20b. When the ultrasonic sensor 12 detects the return belt surface 20b multiple times while conveying the conveyor belt 20, and the detected distance D varies depending on the detected portion, the control unit 10 can determine that it is cleaning fluid adhering to the return belt surface 20b. On the other hand, when the detected distance D is fixed, the control unit 10 can determine it as the thickness of the adhesive G.

[0164] It should be noted that the cleaning fluid adhering to the return belt surface 20b may sometimes be colored by ink or become cloudy due to foreign matter. When detecting such cleaning fluid, light sensors are easily affected by the absorption of the light by ink or foreign matter, potentially leading to inaccurate detection. However, since the ultrasonic sensor 12 uses ultrasound, even with such cleaning fluid, it is less affected by ink or foreign matter, enabling accurate detection.

[0165] The control unit 10 can distinguish between adhesive G and adhering cleaning fluid on the return belt surface 20b based on the aforementioned differences in the detection results of the ultrasonic sensor 12. It should be noted that foreign matter such as debris adhering to the return belt surface 20b can also be distinguished in the same way as the cleaning fluid.

[0166] For example, if the control unit 10 determines, based on the detection results of the ultrasonic sensor 12, that a large amount of cleaning liquid is attached to the return belt surface 20b, it can increase the air volume per unit time of the blower of the drying unit 32 or increase the wattage of the heater to promote drying.

[0167] It should be noted that the control method of the conveying device 2 is the same as that of the recording device 1 described above, except for the control performed by the recording unit 13. Specifically, the conveying device 2 is configured such that at least the recording unit 13 is removed from the recording device 1, therefore the control unit 10 of the conveying device 2 does not perform recording on the medium M via the recording unit 13 (S102). Other controls performed by the control unit 10 of the conveying device 2 are the same as those of the recording device 1 described above, and therefore will not be described further.

[0168] As explained above, the recording device 1 and the conveying device 2 can detect the state of the conveyor belt 20 in a non-contact manner through the ultrasonic sensor 12, so that they will not come into contact with the adhesive G on the return belt surface 20b and cause it to be consumed during detection, and the adhesion of the conveyor belt 20 to the medium M will not be deteriorated.

[0169] These embodiments have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments. As long as it does not depart from the spirit of the present invention, changes, substitutions, deletions, etc., can be made.

[0170] For example, in the above example, the recording unit 13 of the recording device 1 was described as a serial type in which the inkjet head 13a is mounted on the carriage 13b and moves, but it could also be a linear type in which the inkjet head 13a is fixed without the carriage 13b. Furthermore, in the above example, the inkjet head 13a was described as an inkjet type, but the recording method of the inkjet head is not limited. It could also be a sublimation method, a transfer method, or an electrophotographic method.

[0171] Furthermore, in the above example, the recording device 1 and the conveying device 2, starting from the drive roller 14a of the conveying section 14, are arranged sequentially from upstream to downstream in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20, including the cleaning section 30, the ultrasonic sensor 12, the wiping section 31, the drying section 32, and the imparting section 33. The recording device 1 and the conveying device 2 can arbitrarily change the order of these components. For example, the ultrasonic sensor 12 can be arranged downstream of either the wiping section 31 or the drying section 32. The ultrasonic sensor 12 can detect the adhesive G on the conveyor belt 20 in any location. Moreover, the recording device 1 and the conveying device 2 may not have any components. For example, as long as either the wiping section 31 or the drying section 32 can remove the cleaning fluid adhering to the return belt surface 20b, either one can be included but the other omitted.

[0172] The following describes the content derived from the above-described embodiments.

[0173] The recording device 1 is characterized by comprising: a recording unit 13 capable of recording on a medium M; a conveyor belt 20 provided with an adhesive G capable of adhering to the medium M and capable of conveying the medium M; an ultrasonic sensor 12 that transmits ultrasonic waves to the surface of the adhesive G and receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the surface; and a control unit 10 capable of determining the state of the surface based on the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor 12.

[0174] When ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the surface of the adhesive G, as the surface of the adhesive G is worn away, the distance from the surface of the adhesive G to the ultrasonic sensor 12 becomes longer compared to the case where it is not worn away. The recording device 1 can use this and the ultrasonic sensor 12 to detect the degree of degradation of the adhesive G, such as its wear. According to the above configuration, the recording device 1 can use the ultrasonic sensor 12, which is a non-contact sensor, to detect the degree of degradation of the adhesive G. Therefore, the recording device 1 can suppress the degradation of the adhesive G caused by a contact sensor. In addition, the ultrasonic sensor 12 of the recording device 1, like a light sensor, is not affected by the color caused by cleaning fluid or the like during detection.

[0175] The recording device 1 described above includes an application unit 33 capable of applying adhesive G to a surface. An ultrasonic sensor 12 is configured to detect the state of the surface at multiple locations in the width direction, which intersects with the transport direction of the medium M and runs along the surface. The control unit 10 preferably controls the application unit 33 based on the detection results of the ultrasonic sensor 12.

[0176] According to the above configuration, the recording device 1 can detect, for example, the portion of the surface of the conveyor belt 20 that should be coated with adhesive G, and automatically and appropriately coat that portion with adhesive G. Therefore, the user does not need to coat the portion with adhesive G, thus improving convenience.

[0177] The recording device 1 described above includes: a cleaning unit 30, capable of cleaning the surface of the conveyor belt 20 with liquid; a wiping unit 31, disposed downstream of the cleaning unit 30 and upstream of the recording unit 13 in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt 20, which wipes the surface by contacting the surface; and an adjustment unit 31b, capable of adjusting the load of the wiping unit 31 on the surface. The ultrasonic sensor 12 is configured to detect the state of at least a portion of the surface from downstream of the cleaning unit 30 to upstream of the wiping unit 31 in the circumferential direction, i.e., the detected area 20c. The control unit 10 preferably reduces the load of the wiping unit 31 by controlling the adjustment unit 31b based on the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor 12.

[0178] According to the above configuration, since the recording device 1 reduces the load of the wiping part 31 on the conveyor belt 20 by adjusting the adjustment part 31b based on the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor 12, it is possible to suppress further deterioration of the adhesive G caused by the load of the wiping part 31.

[0179] The recording device 1 described above includes a drying section 32, which is disposed in the circumferential direction downstream of the wiping section 31 and upstream of the recording section 13. The surface is dried by at least one of airflow and heat. The control section 10 preferably increases the output of the drying section 32 while reducing the load on the wiping section 31.

[0180] When the load on the wiping section 31 decreases, liquid from the cleaning section 30 is more likely to remain on the surface of the conveyor belt 20. According to the above configuration, the recording device 1 alerts the user to the drying of liquid remaining on the surface of the conveyor belt 20 by increasing the output of the drying section 32 when the load on the wiping section 31 decreases. The recording device 1 is able to prevent the degree of liquid residue on the conveyor belt 20 from increasing as the load on the wiping section 31 decreases.

[0181] The conveying device 2 is characterized by comprising: a conveyor belt 20, on which an adhesive G is provided to adhere the medium M, and capable of conveying the medium M; an ultrasonic sensor 12, including a transmitting part 12a that transmits ultrasonic waves to the surface of the adhesive G and a receiving part 12b that receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the surface; and a control part 10 capable of determining the state of the surface based on the detection result of the ultrasonic sensor 12.

[0182] When ultrasonic waves are emitted from the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the surface of the adhesive G, the distance from the surface of the adhesive G to the ultrasonic sensor 12 increases when the surface of the adhesive G is worn away, compared to when it is not worn away. The conveying device 2 can use this and the ultrasonic sensor 12 to detect the degree of degradation of the adhesive G, such as wear. According to the above configuration, the conveying device 2 can use the ultrasonic sensor 12, which is a non-contact sensor, to detect the degree of degradation of the adhesive G. Therefore, the conveying device 2 can suppress the degradation of the adhesive G caused by contact sensors. In addition, the ultrasonic sensor 12 of the conveying device 2, like a light sensor, is not affected by the color caused by cleaning fluids, etc., when detecting.

Claims

1. A recording device, characterized in that, have: The recording unit is capable of recording on a medium; The conveyor belt is equipped with an adhesive that can hold the medium in place and is capable of conveying the medium. An ultrasonic sensor transmits ultrasonic waves to the surface of the adhesive and receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the surface. as well as The control unit is able to determine the state of the surface based on the detection results of the ultrasonic sensor. The cleaning unit is capable of cleaning the surface using liquid; A wiping section is disposed downstream of the cleaning section and upstream of the recording section in the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt, and wipes the surface by contacting the surface; as well as The adjustment section is capable of adjusting the load of the wiping section on the surface. The ultrasonic sensor is configured to detect the state of a detected area, which is at least a portion of the surface extending in the circumferential direction from downstream of the cleaning section to upstream of the wiping section. The control unit controls the adjustment unit based on the detection results of the ultrasonic sensor, thereby reducing the load on the wiping unit.

2. The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The recording device includes an application section capable of applying the adhesive to the surface. The ultrasonic sensor is configured to detect the state of the surface at multiple locations in a width direction that intersects with and runs along the surface of the medium. The control unit controls the imparting unit based on the detection results of the ultrasonic sensor.

3. The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The recording device includes a drying section disposed in the circumferential direction downstream of the wiping section and upstream of the recording section, wherein the surface is dried by at least one of airflow and heat. The control unit increases the output of the drying unit while reducing the load on the wiping unit.

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