Inkjet recording apparatus

Abstract

The inkjet recording apparatus of the present invention aims to reduce the amount of solvent vapor floating around when the print head is cleaned. Also, it aims to reduce ink contamination around the print head. The inkjet recording apparatus includes a main body section and a print head. The main body section includes an ink container that stores ink and a solvent container that stores solvent. The print head has a nozzle that is connected to the ink container and that discharges ink supplied under pressure, a charging electrode that charges ink particles discharged from the nozzle, a deflection electrode that deflects ink particles charged by the charging electrode, and a gutter that recovers ink. In addition, there is a head mounting unit for cleaning the print head. The head mounting unit is connected to a solvent vapor suction passage for suctioning solvent vapor generated around.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to inkjet recording apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] As a technology relating to this field, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-49786) is known. Patent Document 1 discloses: "An inkjet recording apparatus, characterized in that it comprises: an ink container for storing ink for printing on an object; a nozzle connected to the ink container and discharging pressurized ink; a charged electrode for charging ink particles discharged from the nozzle; a deflecting electrode for deflecting the ink particles charged by the charged electrode; a flow channel for recovering ink not used for printing; a solvent container for storing solvent; and a liquid nozzle connected to the solvent container and discharging pressurized solvent, the liquid nozzle having a liquid flow path extending from the nozzle toward the flow channel, and a liquid discharge orifice formed at an angle at which the pressurized solvent reaches the nozzle via the liquid flow path."

[0003] Furthermore, the technology of Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-123117) is known. Patent Document 2 discloses: "An inkjet recording apparatus, characterized in that it comprises: an ink container for storing ink for printing on an object; a nozzle connected to the ink container and discharging pressurized ink; a charged electrode for charging ink particles discharged from the nozzle; a charged signal generating unit for generating a charged signal that charges the charged electrode; a deflecting electrode for deflecting the ink particles charged by the charged electrode; a flow channel for collecting ink not used for printing; and a control unit for controlling the operation of the entire apparatus, having a first charge detection unit for detecting the amount of charge on the ink particles between the charged electrode and the deflecting electrode, and a second charge detection unit for detecting the amount of charge on the ink flowing in the flow channel."

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-49786

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-123117 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] Patent Document 1 describes the structure and control method of an inkjet recording apparatus for cleaning ink stains on a printhead disposed within a printhead cleaning unit by discharging solvent from a liquid nozzle (head cleaning step), and then drying the solvent adhering to the printhead by discharging air from an air nozzle (head drying step). Here, in the head drying step, there is a possibility that the solvent (liquid) changes into solvent vapor (gas), and this solvent vapor floats around the printhead.

[0010] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 describes the structure and control method of an inkjet recording device for detecting an anomaly (generally referred to as beam bending) in which ink particles ejected from the nozzles of the printhead cannot be captured by the flow channel. There is a possibility that such an anomaly (beam bending) may occur immediately after ink begins to eject from the nozzles. When an anomaly (beam bending) occurs, there is a possibility that the ink may contaminate the area around the printhead.

[0011] Therefore, the object of this invention is to reduce the amount of solvent vapor floating around the printhead during printhead cleaning. Another object of this invention is to reduce ink contamination around the printhead caused by abnormalities occurring at the start of ink ejection.

[0012] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0013] To achieve the above objectives, one example of the present invention is an inkjet recording device, comprising: a printhead for printing; a main body including a passage for supplying ink from an ink container to the printhead, a passage for recovering ink not used for printing back into the ink container, a passage for supplying solvent from a solvent container to the ink container, and a regulating unit for regulating the flow of ink and solvent in each passage; a control unit for controlling the main body and the printhead; and a printhead mounting unit including a cleaning tank having a space for receiving the printhead and an opening at the bottom, and a recovery container for recovering liquid flowing out from the opening, and a solvent vapor suction passage connected to the cleaning tank for attracting and discharging solvent vapor generated in the cleaning tank, and a drive unit for discharging the solvent vapor.

[0014] Another example of the present invention is an inkjet recording apparatus, comprising: a printhead having a nozzle for atomizing and discharging supplied ink particles, a charged electrode for charging the ink particles discharged from the nozzle, a deflecting electrode for deflecting the ink particles charged by the charged electrode, and a flow channel for recovering unused ink not used for printing; and a body comprising an ink supply passage for supplying ink from an ink container to the nozzle, an ink recovery passage for recovering the unused ink recovered from the flow channel back into the ink, a solvent supply passage for supplying solvent from a solvent container, and a system for regulating the flow channels. The system includes: a regulating unit for the flow of ink and solvent; a control unit for controlling the main body and the printhead; and a printhead mounting unit comprising a cleaning tank having a space for receiving the printhead, a cleaning nozzle for discharging solvent from the printhead received in the cleaning tank, and an air outlet for discharging air from the cleaning tank to dry the printhead; a charge sensor for detecting the amount of charge on the ink particles charged by the charged electrode; the control unit causing the solvent to be discharged from the cleaning nozzle to clean the printhead; and then detecting whether the charge sensor reacts when a voltage is applied to the deflection electrode.

[0015] Another example of the present invention is an inkjet recording apparatus, comprising: a printhead having a nozzle for atomizing and discharging supplied ink particles, a charged electrode for charging the ink particles discharged from the nozzle, a deflecting electrode for deflecting the ink particles charged by the charged electrode, and a flow channel for recovering unused ink not used for printing; a body having an ink supply passage for supplying ink from the nozzle to an ink container, an ink recovery passage for recovering the unused ink recovered from the flow channel to the ink container, a solvent supply passage for supplying solvent to a solvent container, and an adjustment unit for regulating the flow of ink and solvent in each passage; a control unit for controlling the body and the printhead; and a head mounting unit capable of housing the printhead, wherein the control unit, after confirming that the printhead has been mounted in the head mounting unit, causes ink particles to begin discharging from the nozzle.

[0016] Invention Effects

[0017] According to the present invention, the amount of solvent vapor released around the printhead can be reduced during printhead cleaning, thus reducing the odor of solvent vapor during printhead cleaning. Furthermore, according to the present invention, by starting ink discharge from the nozzles with the printhead mounted on the printhead mounting unit, contamination caused by ink around the printhead can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1This is a perspective view showing the use of the inkjet recording device in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the path structure of the inkjet recording device in Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the structure of the control unit of the inkjet recording device in Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the head mounting unit in Embodiment 1.

[0022] Figure 5 This diagram shows the state after the recycling container has been removed from the head assembly unit.

[0023] Figure 6 This diagram shows the state of the printhead installed in the printhead mounting unit.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a flow diagram showing the overall liquid and gas flow of the apparatus during head cleaning in Example 1, represented by thick lines.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the head mounting unit, with thick lines indicating the flow of liquid and gas inside the head mounting unit during head cleaning in Example 1.

[0026] Figure 9 This is a flow diagram showing the overall gas flow of the apparatus during head drying in Example 1, represented by thick lines.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the head mounting unit, with thick lines indicating the flow of liquid and gas inside the head mounting unit during the head drying process in Example 1.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the head assembly unit showing the state of the recovery container in Example 1 containing a large amount of cleaning fluid.

[0029] Figure 12 This shows the head cleaning mode selection screen in Example 1.

[0030] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of the head cleaning process in Example 1.

[0031] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the method for judging ink contamination during head cleaning and the method for judging drying status during head drying in Example 2.

[0032] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of the head cleaning process in Example 2.

[0033] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the operation stop process in Example 3.

[0034] Figure 17 This is a timing diagram showing the phase relationship between the excitation signal and the charged voltage used for phase search in Example 4.

[0035] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the method for determining whether there is an abnormality at the start of operation in Example 4.

[0036] Figure 19 This indicates the start mode selection screen in Example 4.

[0037] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of the operation start-up process in Example 4.

[0038] Figure 21 The flow diagram is shown in thick lines, representing the flow of liquid during ink circulation within the main body in Example 5.

[0039] Figure 22 The diagram shows the flow of liquid and gas during ink circulation in the body and printhead in Example 5, represented by thick lines.

[0040] Figure 23 The diagram shows the flow of ink during nozzle cleaning and circulation path cleaning in Example 5, represented by thick lines.

[0041] Figure 24 This indicates the long-term operation stop setting screen in Example 5.

[0042] Figure 25 This is a flowchart of the ink circulation process during long-term operation stoppage in Example 5. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described using the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. Furthermore, in the following figures, the same number (reference numeral) is used for the same device, and descriptions of some described devices are sometimes omitted.

[0044] Example 1

[0045] <Usage Status>

[0046] First, regarding the usage state of the inkjet recording device in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, using... Figure 1 Please provide an explanation. Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the use of the inkjet recording device in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 1Inkjet recording devices 600A and 600B each include a main body 1, a printhead 2 connected to the main body 1 via a cable (for the printhead) 5, and a head mounting unit 3 connected to the main body 1 via a cable (for the head mounting unit) 6. Here, the head mounting unit 3 essentially functions to house the printhead, but it can also be used to clean the printhead by spraying cleaning fluid. The head mounting unit 3 described below employs a structure that adds the function of cleaning the printhead. Regarding inkjet recording device 600A, the state where the printhead 2 is placed in the production line is shown. Regarding inkjet recording device 600B, the state where the printhead 2 is removed from the production line and installed (placed) in the head mounting unit 3 is shown. Furthermore, the recovery container 4 installed at the lower part of the head mounting unit 3 is provided to collect the liquid (cleaning fluid) after the printhead cleaning performed by the head mounting unit 3.

[0048] The inkjet recording device 600A is, for example, fixedly installed in a production line within a factory producing food or beverages, with the main body 1 placed in a location with sufficient space to ensure regular maintenance. The printhead 2 is fixed to a printhead mounting member 13 located near the conveyor belt 11, positioned close to it for printing objects 12A and 12B that are being conveyed along the production line in the direction of arrow X, such as the conveyor belt 11. Furthermore, a protective cover 17 is installed on the printhead 2 to protect its internal components. Regarding the object 12B, the image shows it after printing by the printhead 2 has finished and is being conveyed along the conveyor belt 11.

[0049] in addition, Figure 1 In this design, the main body 1 stores (holds) the printing ink, and the drive unit (pump and solenoid valve) inside the main body supplies ink to the print head 2 via cable (for the print head) 5. Details regarding the internal passage structure and control unit of the main body 1 will be described later. An operation display unit 8 is located on the top surface of the main body 1; this is a touch-screen display panel. The operator can touch-operate the operation display unit 8 to start and stop the control unit's indicator device, or to set the content to be printed on the object 12A. Furthermore, Figure 1 In the diagram, 16 in printhead 2 represents the printhead base, and 17 represents the protective cover.

[0050] The printhead mounting unit 3 is disposed around the printhead 2. The printhead mounting unit 3 in the inkjet recording apparatus 600A is secured by combining the fitting portion 93 assembled on the printhead mounting unit 3 with the fixing clamp 92 assembled on the conveyor belt 11. Furthermore, the printhead mounting unit 3 has a printhead mounting portion 81A for mounting the printhead 2 onto the printhead mounting unit. The printhead mounting unit 3 also has a start button 18 for initiating the cleaning process of the printhead 2, a stop button 19 for stopping the cleaning process of the printhead 2, and a display unit 20 for allowing the operator to identify confirmation messages, alarms, or abnormalities. This display unit 20 can, for example, allow the operator to identify the operating status or any abnormalities by whether a light is illuminating or by a difference in color.

[0051] In this embodiment of the inkjet recording apparatus 600A, the head mounting unit 3 is fixed near the conveyor belt 11, but the head mounting unit 3 can be freely moved to a location easily accessible to the user. Furthermore, regarding the length of the cable 6 (for the head mounting unit) connecting the main body 1 to the head mounting unit 3, it is preferably the same as or longer than the cable 5 connecting the main body 1 of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 to the printhead 2. This is to ensure flexibility in the configuration of the head mounting unit.

[0052] Furthermore, the main body 1 has a fixing part 91 for fixing the head mounting unit 3. The head mounting unit 3 can also be removed from the fixing clamp (for the conveyor belt) 92 and replaced with the fixing part 91 for use. When the inkjet recording device 600B is in use, the head mounting unit 3 can also be fixed to the main body 1 by combining the fitting part 93 with the fixing part 91 assembled on the main body 1. The head mounting unit 3 of the inkjet recording device 600B is mounted on the main body 1. By pre-setting it to be able to fix the head mounting unit 3 to the main body 1, the head mounting unit 3 can be installed even when there is no space to install the head mounting unit 3 near the conveyor belt 11 or other locations.

[0053] Next, the state in which the printhead 2 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3 in the inkjet recording apparatus 600B will be described. The printhead 2 is mounted on the head mounting portion 81A of the head mounting unit 3, starting from the front end of the printhead 2. In this embodiment, by mounting the printhead 2 on the head mounting unit in this way, the inkjet recording apparatus 600 can clean the printhead 2 with solvent 69A supplied from the main body 1 side via cable (for the head mounting unit) 6.

[0054] <Pathway Structure>

[0055] Next, regarding the path structure of the inkjet recording device 600 in Embodiment 1, using... Figure 2 Please provide an explanation. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the overall pathway structure of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment.

[0056] First, the ink supply path (paths 801-804) of the inkjet recording device 600 in Example 1 will be described. Figure 2 As shown, the main body 1 includes an ink container 31 for holding ink 68A for printing. The ink container 31 includes a liquid level sensor 31A for detecting whether the liquid (ink 68A) inside the ink container 31 has reached an appropriate amount, i.e., a reference liquid level, for maintaining it internally.

[0057] The portion of the ink container 31 immersed in ink 68A is connected to a passage (supply) 801, and a solenoid valve (supply) 49 for opening and closing the passage is installed along the passage 801. Furthermore, the passage 801 is connected via a manifold 901 to a pump (supply) 34 installed in passage 802 for drawing and pumping ink 68A. Then, a filter (supply) 39 for removing foreign matter mixed into the ink 68A is connected to the output side of the pump (supply) 34.

[0058] The filter (supply) 39 is connected to a pressure regulating valve 46 that adjusts the pressure of the ink 68A pumped from the pump (supply) 34 to a pressure suitable for printing. The pressure regulating valve 46 is connected to a pressure sensor 47 that measures the pressure of the ink 68A supplied to the nozzle 21. The passage 802, in which the pressure sensor 47 is located, is connected via a branch passage 921 to a passage 803 within the cable (for the printhead) 5. The passage 803 is connected to a switching valve 26 included in the printhead 2 for controlling whether ink 68A is supplied to the nozzle 21.

[0059] The switching valve 26 is connected to the nozzle 21, which includes an outlet 21A for discharging ink 68A, via a passage 804. Furthermore, the switching valve 26 is a three-way solenoid valve, connected to an ink supply passage 802 and a nozzle cleaning passage 835, enabling switching between the supply of ink 68A and solvent 69A to the nozzle 21. In the straight-line direction of the outlet 21A of the nozzle 21, a charged electrode 23 is provided for applying a predetermined amount of charge to the ink particles 68B, a deflection electrode 24 is provided for deflecting the ink particles 68B used for printing, and a flow channel 25 is provided for capturing ink particles 68B that are not charged because they are not used for printing and are flying in a straight line instead of being deflected.

[0060] Next, the ink recovery paths 811 and 812 of the inkjet recording device 600 will be described. Figure 2In the middle, the flow channel 25 is connected to the passage 811, in which a charge sensor 48 is arranged to detect whether ink particles 68B with an added charge by the charged electrode 23 have been recovered. Then, the passage 811 is connected to a filter (for recovery) 40 arranged in the main body 1 to remove foreign matter mixed in with the ink through a cable (for the printhead) 5. The filter (for recovery) 40 is connected to a solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 for opening and closing the passage.

[0061] A solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 is configured in a passage 812 connected via a manifold 902 and is connected to a pump (for recovery) 35 that draws ink particles 68B captured by the flow channel 25. The pump (for recovery) 35 is connected to an ink container 31. By opening the solenoid valve 50, the pump 35 is driven, and the ink particles 68B captured by the flow channel 25 are recovered into the ink container 31.

[0062] Next, the exhaust passage (passage 814) of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described. In the ink container 31, in the upper space that is not in contact with the ink 68A, the passage 814 is connected. The passage 814 adopts a structure that is connected to the exhaust duct connection portion 62 that communicates with the outside of the main body 1.

[0063] Next, the ink circulation paths (paths 821 and 822) of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in this embodiment will be described. The nozzle 21 included in the printhead 2 is connected not only to the ink supply path 804, but also to path 821 via the cable (for the printhead) 5. In path 821, a solenoid valve (for circulation) 59, included in the main body 1, is disposed to open and close the flow path. The solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 is connected to path 822 via a manifold 903, and a pump (for circulation) 36, which draws ink from the nozzle 21, is disposed in path 822. Furthermore, the pump (for circulation) 36 is connected to the ink container 31.

[0064] Next, the viscosity measurement pathways (824 and 822) of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 In this process, the portion of ink container 31 immersed in ink 68A is connected to a passage (for viscosity measurement) 824. Within the passage (for viscosity measurement) 824, a viscosity meter 45 is connected to determine the viscosity of the ink 68A within ink container 31. The viscosity meter 45 is connected to a solenoid valve (for viscosity measurement) 57 that opens and closes the passage. The solenoid valve (for viscosity measurement) 57 is connected via a manifold 903 to a pump (for circulation) 36 located in passage 822. This allows the ink 68A within ink container 31 to circulate within the viscosity measurement passage, thus measuring the viscosity of the ink 68A. The measured viscosity is then input to the control unit 7. Figure 2 Not illustrated in the image. (Reference)Figure 3 It is used for viscosity control of ink 68A in ink container 31.

[0065] Next, the solvent replenishment pathways (paths 831 and 833) of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 In the main body 1, a solvent container 33 is included, which holds solvent 69A for replenishing solvent in the ink container 31, cleaning nozzles, or cleaning the head. The portion of the solvent container 33 immersed in the solvent 69A is connected to a passage 831, in which a pump (solvent supply) 37 for drawing and pumping solvent is disposed. The pump (solvent supply) 37 is then connected to a branch passage 922 to change the destination of the solvent 69A supply according to the desired purpose. The branch passage 922 is connected in the solvent replenishment passage to a solenoid valve (solvent replenishment) 53 disposed in the passage 833 for opening and closing the flow path; the solenoid valve (solvent replenishment) 53 is a structure connected to the ink container 31. Using this passage, the viscosity of the ink 68A within the ink container 31 is controlled by the control unit 7.

[0066] Next, the ink replenishment path 806 of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 In the main body 1, there is an auxiliary ink container 32 for holding replenished ink 68C. The portion of the auxiliary ink container 32 immersed in ink 68C is connected to a passage 806. In the passage 806, a solenoid valve (for ink replenishment) 54 for opening and closing the passage is connected. The solenoid valve (for ink replenishment) 54 is connected via a manifold 901 to a pump (for supplying) 34 provided in the passage 801 for drawing and pressing ink 68C. Then, the ink 68C in the auxiliary ink container 32 is replenished to the ink container 31 via the nozzle 21, through the flow channel 25, the passage 811, the solenoid valve 50, and the pump 35.

[0067] Next, the nozzle cleaning paths (paths 831 and 835) of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 In this configuration, the pump (for solvent) 37, located in passage 831, is connected to passage 835 via branch passage 922. Passage 835 is connected to a solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 55 for opening and closing the flow path. The solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 55 is then connected to a filter (for nozzle cleaning) 41 for removing foreign matter mixed into the solvent 69A. The filter (for nozzle cleaning) 41 is connected via passage 821 within cable (for printhead) 5 to a switching valve 26, included in the printhead 2, for controlling whether to deliver cleaning solvent 69A to the nozzles 21.

[0068] Next, the main circulation paths (paths 808 and 812) of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in this embodiment will be described. Path 802 is connected to path 808 via branch path 921. In path 808, a solenoid valve (for main circulation) 58 is connected to open and close the path. The solenoid valve (for main circulation) 58 is connected to a pump (for circulation) 35 provided in path 812 via manifold path 902.

[0069] Next, the head cleaning path (paths 831 and 837) of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 In the process, the pump (for solvent) 37 is connected to the passage 837 via the branch passage 922. A solenoid valve (for head cleaning) 56 for opening and closing the flow path is arranged in the passage 837. The solenoid valve (for head cleaning) 56 is connected to the filter (for head cleaning) 43 for removing foreign matter mixed in the solvent 69A.

[0070] The filter (for head cleaning) 42 is connected via a passage 822 in the cable (for head mounting unit) 6 to a filter (for head cleaning) 43 included in the head mounting unit 3 for removing foreign matter initially mixed into the passage 837. The output side of the filter (for head cleaning) 43 is then connected to a cleaning nozzle 72 inside the cleaning tank 71 included in the head mounting unit 3. Here, the space inside the cleaning tank 71 is configured to communicate with a recovery container 4 located at the bottom. The recovery container 4 is provided to collect the solvent remaining after cleaning with the cleaning fluid (solvent) discharged from the cleaning nozzle 72 located in the cleaning tank 71. A float 74 is provided inside the recovery container 4 to detect the level of the solvent after cleaning. When the float 74, which has a built-in magnet, reaches a predetermined level, the magnetic sensor A76 detects the level and controls the control unit (…). Figure 2 (Not shown in the diagram.) The cleaning fluid in the output recovery container 4 has reached the specified level.

[0071] Next, the air supply path (path 841) of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 In the main body 1, a pump (for drying) 60 for drawing and compressing air is included. An air intake port communicating with the interior of the main body 1 is formed in the pump (for drying) 60. The pump (for drying) 60 is connected to an air supply nozzle 73 included inside the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit 3 via a passage 841 in the cable (for head mounting unit) 6.

[0072] Next, the air suction passage (passage 843) of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in this embodiment will be described. An air pump (suction pump) 61 for suction and compression of air, included in the main body 1, is connected to the cleaning tank 71 included in the head mounting unit 3 via passage 843 in the cable (for the head mounting unit) 6. The pump (suction pump) 61 is connected to an exhaust duct connection 62 that communicates with the outside of the main body 1.

[0073] <Structure of the Control Unit>

[0074] Next, the structure of the control unit 7 of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the schematic structure of the control unit 7 and the printing mechanism (main body 1 and print head 2) of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment. Figure 3 In this configuration, 301 is a microprocessor unit (hereinafter referred to as MPU) that controls the entire inkjet recording device 600. 302 is a bus that functions to transmit data and control signals between the various parts constituting the control unit. For example, bus 302 is used to input data and detection signals required for the operation of MPU 301 from each part, and to transmit data signals, address signals, and control signals to each part. 306 is a read-only memory (ROM) that stores the control program and data required for the operation of MPU 301. 307 is a rewritable memory (RAM) that temporarily stores data required when MPU 301 executes its program. 8 is an operation display unit that inputs print content and settings, and displays the input data and print content. This operation display unit 8 uses a touch input display panel with a transparent touch switch superimposed on the surface of the liquid crystal display screen.

[0075] Furthermore, the head-mounted unit 3 can be controlled from the operation display unit of the control unit 7. The operation unit (start button 18 and stop button 19) is used when operating the head-mounted unit 3, rather than on the operation display unit 8, is performed near the head-mounted unit 3. Then, the display unit 20 is used when checking the operating status of the head-mounted unit 3 and abnormal messages, rather than on the operation display unit 8, is performed near the head-mounted unit 3.

[0076] The printhead 2 of the inkjet recording device 600 includes a nozzle 21 that atomizes and discharges ink 68A supplied under pressure from the ink container 31. The nozzle 21 discharges the ink in a columnar shape, with the leading edge separating and being discharged as ink particles 68B. In addition, the printhead 2 includes charged electrodes 23 surrounding the ink particles 68B, so that the ink particles 68B are charged accordingly with respect to the printed content.

[0077] Furthermore, the printhead 2 deflects the ink particles 68B, which are charged and flying due to the charged electrode 23, in accordance with their charge, and directs them toward the object to be printed (not shown). The flying ink particles then hit the object to be printed, thus performing printing. The deflection electrode 24 of the printhead 2 consists of a ground electrode 24B and a positive electrode 24A. Additionally, the printhead 2 includes a flow channel 25 for capturing ink particles 68B that are not used for printing (unused ink), and a charge sensor 48 that generates a phase detection signal corresponding to the charge of the ink particles 68B1 with trace charges captured by the flow channel 25. Moreover, on the main body 1 side, there is a pump (for recovery) 35 for recovering the ink (ink particles) captured by the flow channel 25 to the ink container 31, and ink recovery passages 811-812 connecting the flow channel 25 and the ink container 31.

[0078] Furthermore, the control unit 7 has an excitation voltage generating circuit 331 that excites the electrodeformation element 22 (not shown) built into the nozzle 21 to make the timing of the separation of the ink column ejected from the nozzle 21 into ink particles 68B regular.

[0079] Furthermore, the control unit 7 includes a printing charge signal generation circuit 342 and a phase search charge signal generation circuit 341, and a D / A converter 343 that converts the charge signal in digital form output from them into an analog voltage signal, and an amplification circuit 344 that amplifies the analog voltage signal output from the D / A converter 343 to generate a charge voltage applied to the charge electrode 23. Alternatively, instead of providing both the printing charge signal generation circuit 342 and the phase search charge signal generation circuit 341, charge control can be achieved solely using the printing charge signal generation circuit 342 through the control unit. Additionally, the inkjet recording apparatus 600 includes a deflection voltage generation circuit 332 that generates a deflection voltage applied to the deflection electrode 24.

[0080] In addition, the inkjet recording device 600 includes an amplification circuit 353 that amplifies the phase detection signal in the form of an analog signal output from the charge sensor 48, a phase judgment circuit 351 that inputs the amplified phase detection signal to determine whether the charge is good, and an A / D converter 352 that inputs the amplified phase detection signal and performs A / D conversion.

[0081] Next, in Figure 3In the control unit 7, the MPU301 is connected via bus 302 to a liquid level detection circuit 313 for managing the liquid level of the ink container 31, a pressure detection circuit 312 for detecting whether the pressure of the ink supplied to the nozzle 21 is appropriate, a viscosity measuring circuit 311 for measuring whether the viscosity of the ink 68A supplied to the nozzle 21 is appropriate for printing using a viscosity meter 45, a pump control circuit 314 for controlling the suction and delivery of ink 68A and solvent 69A equipped in the main body 1, and a solenoid valve drive circuit 315 for controlling the opening and closing of solenoid valves 49-50 and 53-59 in each passage, thereby controlling each part.

[0082] Additionally, the MPU301 is connected via bus 302 to the air pump control circuit 321 for controlling pumps 60 and 61, the recovery container sensor detection circuit 322 for detecting the situation where the recovery container 4 is installed on the head mounting unit 3 using magnetic sensor A76 and magnet A75 and the situation where the liquid 70 in the recovery container 4 is not more than a specified amount, the print head detection circuit 323 for detecting the situation where the print head 2 is installed on the head mounting unit 3 using magnetic sensor B84 and magnet B86 on the side of the head mounting unit 3, and the head mounting unit detection circuit 324 for detecting the situation where the print head 2 is installed on the head mounting unit 3 using magnetic sensor C28 and magnet C87 on the side of the print head 2, to control each part.

[0083] Furthermore, the control unit 7 can use a computer. Specifically, the control unit 7 can be composed of an MPU 301, a memory (306 and 307) storing the program for operating the MPU 301 and the data / information required for operation, and a drive unit that operates the print head 2, the print head mounting unit 3, and the structural parts within the main body 1 according to the instructions of the MPU 301. Detailed description of the control unit 7 is omitted here.

[0084] <Structure of the Head Mounting Unit>

[0085] Next, the detailed structure of the head mounting unit 3 of the inkjet recording device 600 in Embodiment 1 will be described using... Figures 4-6 Please provide an explanation. Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of the head mounting unit 3 (a cross-sectional view of the cleaning nozzle 72). Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the head mounting unit 3 after the recovery container has been removed. Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the printhead mounting unit, showing the state of the printhead being installed.

[0086] First, using Figure 4 Explain the structure of the head mounting unit. Figure 4The head mounting unit 3 includes a cleaning tank 71 for storing the print head 2 during head cleaning, a cleaning module 81 provided on the upper part of the cleaning tank 71 for mounting the print head 2 on the head mounting unit 3 and a head insertion part 81B that serves as an inlet when inserting the print head 2 into the cleaning tank 71, and a recovery container 4 for storing the liquid 70A used during head cleaning.

[0087] On the cleaning module 81, a cover component 83 is assembled to prevent dust and other foreign objects from entering the cleaning tank 71 through the head insertion portion 81B, which is an opening, when the printhead 2 is not placed in the head insertion portion 81B. The cover component 83 is assembled to the cleaning module 81 via a cover hinge 82. A magnet B86 is assembled in the cover component 83 for use when the printhead 2 is detected to be placed on the head mounting unit 3. In the cleaning module 81, a magnetic sensor B84 is assembled to detect when the magnet B86 approaches within a certain distance when the printhead 2 is placed on the head mounting unit 3. Additionally, a magnet C87 is assembled in the cleaning module 81 for use when the printhead 2 is detected to be placed on the head mounting unit 3.

[0088] Furthermore, the cleaning module 81 is assembled by press-fitting a cleaning nozzle 72 for discharging solvent 69A for cleaning the printhead 2 and a supply nozzle 73 having an air outlet for blowing out air to dry the printhead 2 that has been moistened by solvent 69A after cleaning.

[0089] The cleaning nozzle 72 has a liquid discharge port A portion 72A for discharging solvent 69A in alignment with the nozzle 21 assembled on the printhead 2, and a liquid discharge port B portion 72B for discharging solvent 69A in alignment with the deflection electrode 24. Furthermore, the cleaning nozzle 72 is connected to a flow path B portion 81E formed in the cleaning module 81.

[0090] The air supply nozzle 73 has an air discharge hole 73A for discharging air in a manner aligned with the electrodes of the charged electrodes 23 assembled on the printhead 2. The air supply nozzle 73 is connected to the flow path C portion 81F formed in the cleaning module 81. Furthermore, the cleaning module 81 has a hole 81C communicating with the interior of the cleaning tank 71 into which the printhead 2 is inserted during head cleaning, and a flow path A portion 81D connected to the hole 81C.

[0091] Furthermore, in the head mounting unit 3, at the lower part of the cleaning module 81, there is a cleaning tank 71 for receiving the printhead 2 during head cleaning. The cleaning tank 71 has sidewalls formed to prevent solvent 69A discharged from the cleaning nozzle 72 from splashing around, and a mounting portion 71A used when installing the recovery container 4. Additionally, inside the cleaning tank 71, a temperature sensor B80 is assembled for detecting the ambient temperature of the head mounting unit 3 and for various controls. Furthermore, a magnetic sensor A76 is assembled in the cleaning tank 71 for detecting when the recovery container 4 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3.

[0092] Furthermore, in the head mounting unit 3, at the lower part of the cleaning tank 71, there is a recovery container 4 for collecting the liquid 70A used during head cleaning. The recovery container 4 consists of a container 77 for collecting the liquid 70A, a partition 78 installed to reduce splashing of the liquid 70A when handling the recovery container 4, a float 74 with a magnet A75 assembled on it, and a support 79 for suppressing the movement of the float 74.

[0093] The container 77 includes a storage section 77B for holding liquid 70A used during head cleaning, a mounting section 77A for fixing it in the cleaning tank 71, and an internally threaded section 77C for mounting the separator 78. The separator 78 includes a liquid inlet hole 78A for allowing liquid 70A dripping from the cleaning tank 71 to flow into the container 77, and a liquid outlet hole 78B for allowing liquid 70A to flow out of the container 77 when the recovery container 4 is tilted.

[0094] Furthermore, in the cleaning module 81, a liquid connector 89 connected to the flow path B section 81E is assembled, and a tube 837A is connected to the liquid connector 89 by a press-fitting method or the like. This tube 837A forms part of the head cleaning passage 837, and is connected to the solvent container 33 inside the main body 1 via the tube 837A. Additionally, in the cleaning module 81, an air connector 90 connected to the flow path C section 81F is assembled, and a tube 841A is connected to the air connector 90 by a press-fitting method or the like. This tube 841A forms part of the passage (for air supply) 841, and is connected to the pump (for drying) 60 via the tube 841A.

[0095] Furthermore, in the cleaning module 81, a suction connector 88 connected to the flow path A section 81D is assembled, and a pipe 843A is connected to the suction connector 88 by means of pressing or the like. This pipe 843A forms part of the passage (for air suction) 841, and is connected to the pump (for suction) 61 via the pipe 841A. The suction connector 88 is formed by combining connector A section 88B and connector B section 88C, and a chamber 88A is formed between connector A section 88B and connector B section 88C.

[0096] Furthermore, the head mounting unit 3 is covered by a cover 85 in such a way that tubes 837A, 841A, and 843A do not protrude to the outside of the head mounting unit 3. The cover 85 is fixed in such a way that it clamps the upper part of the cleaning module 81 and the lower part of the cleaning tank 71. The cable (for the head mounting unit) 6 is assembled in a way that protrudes outward and does not obstruct other production equipment. Inside the cable (for the head mounting unit) 6, in addition to tubes 837A, 841A, and 843A, there are also wires 76A connected to the magnetic sensor A76, wires 84A connected to the magnetic sensor B84, wires connected to the temperature sensor B80, and wiring harnesses (not shown) for operating the start button 18, the stop button 19, and the display unit 20, etc., which connect the head mounting unit 3 to the main body 1.

[0097] Next, use Figure 5 The state after the recycling container 4 is removed from the head-mounting unit 3 will be described. In the inkjet recording apparatus 600, by rotating the recycling container 4 approximately 90° while the head-mounting unit 3 is fixed, the mounting portion 71A of the head-mounting unit 3 and the mounting portion 77A of the recycling container 4, which is fitted with it, become separated, allowing the recycling container 4 to be separated from the head-mounting unit 3. In this state, the magnet A75 assembled inside the float 74 is separated from the magnetic sensor A76 assembled in the cleaning tank 71 by a certain distance (the magnetic sensor A76 can no longer detect the distance of the magnet A75). This state is transmitted to the control unit 7 via the wire 76A. Therefore, the control unit 7 can recognize that the recycling container 4 has been removed from the head-mounting unit 3.

[0098] Next, use Figure 6 The state in which the printhead 2 is mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3 will be described. The cover part 83 of the printhead mounting unit 3 is opened by inserting the printhead 2, after removing the protective cover 17, into the printhead insertion part 81B. The printhead 2 is in a state in which the nozzle 21, the charged electrode 23, the deflection electrode 24, and the flow channel 25 are pushed into the space surrounded by the cleaning tank 71 and the cleaning module 81.

[0099] Furthermore, in the head mounting unit 3, to prevent the print head 2 from shifting left, right, forward, or backward, the inner wall surface of the hole in the head insertion portion 81B is fitted with the outer wall surface of the head base 16 of the print head 2. Consequently, a portion of the print head 2 remains stationary in contact with the head mounting portion 81A formed in the cleaning module 81, thus stabilizing the position of the print head 2 when it is mounted on the head mounting unit 3. Additionally, in this embodiment, the print head 2 is equipped with a magnetic sensor C28 and a temperature sensor A27. The wire 28A connected to the magnetic sensor C28 and the wire 27A connected to the temperature sensor A27 are connected to the control unit 7 provided in the main body 1 via the inside of the cable (for the print head) 5.

[0100] With the printhead 2 mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3, the cover component 83 opens due to the printhead 2, and the magnet B86 assembled in the cover component 83 moves in conjunction with it, as shown by the dotted circle M2, bringing the magnet B86 and the magnetic sensor B84 within a certain distance. Thus, the printhead 2 can be identified as being mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3. Furthermore, with the printhead 2 mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3, as shown by the dotted circle M3, the magnet C87 assembled in the cleaning module 81 brings the magnetic sensor C28 assembled in the printhead 2 within a certain distance, thus also allowing the printhead 2 to be identified as being mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3. In this way, by using two sensors to confirm whether the printhead 2 is mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3, false detections caused by component malfunctions are prevented.

[0101] Furthermore, when the recycling container 4 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3, as shown by the dashed circle M1, the magnet A75 assembled in the float 74 of the recycling container 4 approaches within a certain distance from the magnetic sensor A76 assembled in the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit. The magnetic sensor A76 detects this, allowing the control unit 7 to recognize that the recycling container 4 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3. This detection prevents erroneous operations such as starting head cleaning without the recycling container 4 being installed.

[0102] <Head Cleaning / Drying Treatment>

[0103] For the inkjet recording apparatus 600 of Embodiment 1, when performing head cleaning and head drying processes with the printhead 2 mounted on the head mounting unit 3, the following operations are used: Figures 7-11 Please provide an explanation.

[0104] First, regarding the actions during head cleaning in the inkjet recording device 600, the following steps are used: Figure 7 and Figure 8 Please provide an explanation. Figure 7 It is a flow diagram showing the overall liquid and gas flow of the apparatus during head cleaning, represented by thick lines (A1 to A8). Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the head mounting unit 3, with thick lines (A1~A7) indicating the flow of liquid and gas inside during head cleaning.

[0105] Figure 7 and Figure 8In this configuration, the inkjet recording device 600 is in a state where the printhead 2 is mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3 for printhead cleaning. In the printhead cleaning passages (passages 831 and 837), the solenoid valve (for printhead cleaning) 56 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (for solvent) 37 to operate. This supplies solvent, as indicated by the thick arrow A1, to the printhead mounting unit 3. Specifically, the solvent 69A contained in the solvent container 33 of the main body 1 can be supplied to the cleaning nozzles 72 assembled within the cleaning tank 71 of the printhead mounting unit 3.

[0106] The cleaning nozzle 72 discharges the solvent 69A into the printhead, thereby cleaning the printhead 2. Specifically, the solvent 69A supplied to the cleaning nozzle 72 is discharged in the directions shown by arrow A2 (the direction in which the solvent 69A is discharged from the liquid discharge hole A 72A towards the nozzle 21) and arrow A3 (the direction in which the solvent 69A is discharged from the liquid discharge hole B 72B towards the deflection electrode 24). The solvent 69A is discharged from the components assembled in the printhead 2, such as the nozzle 21 and the deflection electrode 24, and can clean the ink stains 68A that adhere to the inkjet recording device 600 during operation and maintenance. After cleaning the components assembled in the printhead 2, such as the nozzle 21 and the deflection electrode 24, the solvent 69A flows downward due to gravity. With the printhead 2 mounted on the head mounting unit 3, the flow channel 25, which is located lower than the charged electrode 23 and the deflection electrode 24, can be cleaned with the solvent 69A.

[0107] Then, during the head cleaning process, the solvent 69A used to clean the components such as the nozzle 21, charged electrode 23, deflection electrode 24, and flow channel 25 in the print head 2 drips in the direction shown by arrow A4 and flows into the recovery container 4 provided at the bottom of the head mounting unit 3, where it is stored in the liquid storage section 77B as liquid 70A.

[0108] Additionally, in the ink circulation path (821-822), the solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (for circulation) 36 to operate. As shown by the thick line of arrow A5, a portion of the solvent 69A reaching the nozzle 21 is drawn from the nozzle 21 and recycled back into the ink container 31 of the main body 1. In this way, during the head cleaning process, the interior of the nozzle 21 and the ink circulation paths 821-822 can also be cleaned with solvent 69A.

[0109] Furthermore, in the ink recovery passages (811-812), the solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (for recovery) 35 to operate. As shown by the thick line of arrow A6, a portion of the solvent 69A that has reached the flow tank 25 is drawn from the flow tank 25 and recovered into the ink container 31 of the main body 1. In this way, during the head cleaning process, the interior of the flow tank 25 and the ink recovery passages 811-812 can also be cleaned with solvent 69A.

[0110] Then, in the nozzle 21 and the flow channel 25, surrounding air is also drawn in along with the solvent 69A. Regarding the air drawn in at this time, the vaporized solvent 69A dissolves into the ink circulation passages 821-822 and the ink recovery passages 811-812, becoming solvent vapor. This solvent vapor flows into the ink container 31 and is then discharged via passage 814 to the exhaust duct connection 62, which communicates with the outside of the main body 1.

[0111] In the air suction passage (passage 841), by operating the pump (suction) 61, as indicated by the thick line of arrow A7, solvent vapor generated in the cleaning tank 71 of the head mounting unit 3 is drawn from the orifice 81C and discharged to the exhaust duct connection 62, which communicates with the outside of the main body 1. The inkjet recording apparatus 600 employs a structure that allows solvent vapor discharged from the ink container 31 and solvent vapor discharged from the head mounting unit 3 to be discharged together from the exhaust duct connection 62. The exhaust duct connection 62 is located away from the operation display section 8 of the main body 1, for example, assembled on the back or bottom surface of the main body 1.

[0112] Furthermore, there is a possibility that a portion of the solvent 69A discharged from the cleaning nozzle 72 may flow into the flow path A 81D through the orifice 81C. Therefore, a chamber 88A (see reference) is provided in the gas suction passage. Figure 4 The solvent 69A flowing into the flow path A 81D is captured to prevent it from flowing towards the pump (suction) 61. The solvent 69A captured in the chamber 88A is dried during the head drying process, so that no solvent 69A remains in the chamber 88A after the head drying process is completed.

[0113] Next, regarding the operation of the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in Embodiment 1 during the printhead drying process after printhead cleaning, the following steps are described: Figure 9 and Figure 10 Please provide an explanation. Figure 9 It is a flow path diagram showing the overall gas flow of the apparatus during the head drying process, represented by thick lines (B1~B6). Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the head mounting unit 3, where the flow of liquid and gas inside the head mounting unit 3 during head drying is represented by thick lines (B1~B5).

[0114] Figure 9 and Figure 10 In the process of setting (installing) the printhead 2 on the printhead mounting unit 3, a printhead drying process is performed after the printhead cleaning process is completed. In the air supply passage 841, compressed air is supplied to the air supply nozzle 73 assembled in the cleaning tank 71 of the printhead mounting unit 3 by operating the pump (drying) 60 installed in the main body 1, as indicated by the thick line of arrow B1. The air supplied to the air supply nozzle 73 is discharged to the charged electrodes 23 of the printhead 2, as indicated by arrow B2. The gap between the electrodes of the charged electrodes 23 is narrower than the gap of the deflection electrodes 24, making them more difficult to dry; therefore, the air is aligned with the air discharge hole 73A formed on the air supply nozzle 73. Then, the air discharged from the air supply nozzle 73 dries the components assembled inside the printhead 2, including the nozzle 21, charged electrodes 23, deflection electrodes 24, and flow channels 25.

[0115] In ink recovery passages 811-812, solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 is energized to open the flow path, causing pump (for recovery) 35 to operate. As shown by the thick line of arrow B5, a portion of the air is drawn from the flow channel 25 and pumped into the ink container 31 of the main body 1. Meanwhile, in ink circulation passages 821-822, solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 is energized to open the flow path, causing pump (for circulation) 36 to operate. As shown by the thick line of arrow B4, a portion of the air is drawn from the nozzle 21 and pumped into the ink container 31 of the main body 1. Then, the air flowing into the ink container 31 is discharged to the outside of the main body 1 through exhaust passage 805, as shown by the thick line of arrow P. In this way, by drawing air from the flow channel 25 and nozzle 21 during the head drying process, the amount of solvent gas discharged around the head mounting unit 3 can be reduced.

[0116] In the air suction passage (passage 841), the pump (suction) 61 is operated, thereby discharging the solvent vapor generated in the cleaning tank 71 of the suction head mounting unit 3 from the orifice 81C to the exhaust duct connection 62, which communicates with the outside of the main body 1, as indicated by the thick line of arrow B3. In the inkjet recording apparatus 600, a structure is adopted in which the solvent vapor discharged from the ink container 31 and the solvent vapor discharged from the head mounting unit 3 are discharged together from the exhaust duct connection 62. If the air flow rate of the pump (suction) 61 that draws the solvent vapor from the cleaning tank 71 from the orifice 81C is greater than the air flow rate supplied to the cleaning tank 71 from the air supply nozzle 73 by the pump (drying) 60, the solvent vapor discharged from the head mounting unit 3 can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, when a large flow of air is drawn from the orifice 81C, an airflow is generated inside the cleaning tank 71, thereby expecting to shorten the drying time of components such as the nozzle 21, charged electrode 23, deflection electrode 24, and flow channel 25 assembled inside the printhead 2.

[0117] Next, for the situation in the inkjet recording device 600 of Example 1 where the head cleaning process is repeatedly performed and the amount of liquid collected in the recovery container 4 is relatively large, the following steps are taken: Figure 11 Please provide an explanation. Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the head assembly unit showing the state of the recovery container in Example 1 containing a large amount of cleaning fluid.

[0118] When the liquid 70 in the recovery container 4 is almost full, it becomes like... Figure 11 The state shown is such that, due to the rise in liquid level in the recovery container 4, the float 74 floats, and the magnetic sensor A76 can no longer output a liquid level detection signal. In this case, the control unit 7 can detect (determine) that the amount of liquid 70 that can be further contained in the recovery container 4 is small, almost full. When the control unit 7 detects such a state, it displays a warning on the operation display unit 8. For example, it can display that the recovery container 4 should be removed and the liquid 70 drained. In addition to the warning being displayed on the operation display unit 8, it can also be displayed to the operator via the display unit 20 of the head-mounted unit 3, or by a buzzer or sound. In addition to display, a warning can also be given by a buzzer or sound. With such a warning, the operator can... Figure 5 As shown, the recycling container 4 is removed, and the liquid 70 inside the recycling container 4 is drained. Then, the emptied recycling container 4 is reinstalled at the lower part of the cleaning tank 71. Because a magnetic sensor A76, which serves as a liquid level detection device, is installed on the outside of the recycling container 3, the removal and installation of the recycling container 4 is easy.

[0119] With the recovery container 4 installed, the float 74 is in a position detectable by the magnetic sensor A76, and therefore the magnetic sensor A76 begins to output a liquid level detection signal. The control unit 7 receives the liquid level detection signal from the magnetic sensor A76 and determines that the recovery container 4 has been installed. Based on this determination, the control unit 7 clears the warning display shown on the operation display unit 8. Alternatively, it can display that the head mounting unit 3 is in an operable (cleanable) state, and control it to release the prohibition state of head cleaning operation, allowing head cleaning.

[0120] In addition, regarding the amount of liquid 70 in the recovery container 4, instead of setting up a physical sensor (such as a magnetic sensor A76), the amount of solvent used can be determined by the head cleaning mode, such as "small amount cleaning: 6ml", "standard cleaning: 12ml", "careful cleaning: 24ml". When the head cleaning is performed, the control unit 7 calculates the amount of liquid 70 in the recovery container 4 and restricts the head cleaning operation when necessary, or instructs the waste liquid to be discharged from the recovery container 4.

[0121] <Head Cleaning Mode Setting Screen>

[0122] For the head cleaning related settings screen of the inkjet recording device 600 in Example 1, use Figure 12 Please provide an explanation. Additionally, make... Figure 13 The screen is displayed on the operation display unit 8.

[0123] First, in the head cleaning mode selection bar (1) of the head cleaning settings screen, select any one of "(a) small amount cleaning, (b) standard cleaning, (c) thorough cleaning, (d) automatic selection". The difference between (a) and (c) is the amount of solvent 69A used in the head cleaning process. For example, the solvent usage is "(a) small amount cleaning: 6 ml, (b) standard cleaning: 12 ml, (c) thorough cleaning: 24 ml". In addition, the solvent usage and control method when setting to "(d) automatic selection" will be described later in Example 2.

[0124] Next, in the (2) head drying time setting section of the head cleaning settings screen, select either "(e) Automatic" or "(f) Manual". When set to "(e) Automatic", the head drying time is set to a predetermined time based on the type of solvent 69A and the values ​​detected by temperature sensor A27 and temperature sensor B80. Then, when "(f) Manual" is selected, the head drying time can be set between 0 and 10 minutes.

[0125] Next, in the (3) Automatic Power Off section of the head cleaning settings screen, select either "(g) No" or "(h) Yes". If "(g) No" is selected, the power supply to the inkjet recording device 600 will be on after the head cleaning process is completed. Then, if "(h) Yes" is selected, the power supply to the inkjet recording device 600 will be automatically turned off after the head cleaning process is completed.

[0126] Then, after completing the series of settings (1) to (3) on the head cleaning related settings screen, press either the "(i) Confirm" or "(j) Cancel" button. If the "(i) Confirm" button is pressed, the settings (1) to (3) currently displayed are sent to the control unit 7 and overwritten, and the settings are reflected in the next head cleaning operation. If the "(j) Cancel" button is pressed, the settings (1) to (3) currently displayed are not sent to the control unit 7 and overwritten. Therefore, in the next head cleaning operation, the settings (displayed on the screen) from when the "(i) Confirm" button was pressed are continued to be used.

[0127] <Description of the head cleaning process in Example 1>

[0128] Next, the procedure for the head cleaning process of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described using...Figure 13 Please provide an explanation. Figure 13 This is a flowchart of the head cleaning process in Example 1.

[0129] Figure 12 First, in step S101, press the start button for head cleaning displayed on the touch panel type operation display 8. Alternatively, press the start button 18 included on the head mounting unit 3. The start button for head cleaning is effective when the inkjet recording device 600 is in a state where ink is stopped from being discharged from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2 and power is not supplied to ink circulation system components such as the pump (supply) 34 and the solenoid valve (supply) 49.

[0130] In step S111, it is confirmed whether the magnetic sensor A76 of the head mounting unit 3 is in the "ON" state (detecting the magnet A75 of the recycling container 4).

[0131] In step S112, if the magnetic sensor A76 is in the "ON" state in the confirmation result of step S111, it is determined to be "Yes" (the recovery container 4 is set (installed) on the head mounting unit 3), and the process proceeds to step S121. If the magnetic sensor A76 is in the "OFF" state in the confirmation result of step S111, it is determined to be "No" in step S112 (the recovery container 4 is not set (installed) on the head mounting unit 3, or liquid 70A has accumulated in the recovery container 4 and the float 74 is in a floating state), and the process proceeds to step S113.

[0132] In step 113, the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the display unit 20 of the head mounting unit 3 displays the message "Please empty the liquid 70A in the recovery container 4. Please place the empty recovery container 4 on the head mounting unit".

[0133] In step S114, the operator places the empty recycling container 4 on the head mounting unit 3. Then, the operator presses the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the start button 18 of the head mounting unit 3, thereby re-executing the process of step S111.

[0134] In step S121, it is confirmed whether the magnetic sensor B84 of the head mounting unit 3 is in the "ON" state (detecting the magnet B86 assembled on the cover component 83) and whether the magnetic sensor C28 of the print head 2 is in the "ON" state (detecting the magnet C87 assembled on the cleaning module 81).

[0135] In step S122, if both magnetic sensor B84 and magnetic sensor C28 are in the "ON" state in the confirmation result of step S121, it is determined as "Yes" (printhead 2 is set (installed) on the head mounting unit 3), and the process proceeds to step S131. If either magnetic sensor B84 or magnetic sensor C28 is in the "OFF" state in the confirmation result of step S121, it is determined as "No" (printhead 2 is not set (installed) on the head mounting unit 3), and the process proceeds to step S123.

[0136] In step S123, the message "Please set the print head on the head mounting unit" is displayed on the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the display unit 20 of the head mounting unit 3. In step S124, the operator sets the print head 2 on the head mounting unit 3. Afterward, the operator presses the start button 18 on the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the head mounting unit 3, thereby repeating the process of step S121.

[0137] In step S131, if Figure 12 If the preset content in the head cleaning mode selection bar of the head cleaning setting screen shown in the figure is "(a) small amount cleaning", then proceed to step S132; if it is "(b) standard cleaning", then proceed to step S133; if it is "(c) thorough cleaning", then proceed to step S134.

[0138] Steps S132 to S134 are head cleaning steps, in which head cleaning treatment is performed according to the head cleaning mode "(a) small amount cleaning, (b) standard cleaning, (c) thorough cleaning, (d) automatic selection" (solvent 69B is discharged from the cleaning nozzle 72 of the head mounting unit 3 to clean the print head 2). Then, if completed, proceed to step S141 in either case.

[0139] In step S141, if Figure 12 If the preset setting in the (2) head drying time setting column of the head cleaning related settings screen shown in the figure is "(e) automatic", then proceed to step S142; if it is "(f) manual setting", then proceed to step S143.

[0140] Step S142 is the head drying step, in which the head drying process is performed at a predetermined time based on the type of solvent 69A and the values ​​detected by temperature sensor A27 and temperature sensor B80 (air is discharged from the air supply nozzle 73 of the head mounting unit 3, and solvent vapor is drawn from the hole 81C in the cleaning tank 71 to dry the print head 2).

[0141] Step S143 is the head drying step. The head drying process is performed according to the head drying time entered in "(f) Manual Setting" (set to between 0 and 10 minutes). Air is discharged from the air supply nozzle 73 of the head mounting unit 3, and solvent vapor is drawn from the hole 81C in the cleaning tank 71 to dry the print head 2.

[0142] In step S151, if Figures 1-11 If the preset value in the automatic power-off setting after processing of the head cleaning related settings screen shown in the figure is "(g) No", then proceed to step S152; if it is "(h) Yes", then proceed to step S153.

[0143] In step S152, the inkjet recording device 600 is in a state where ink is stopped from being discharged from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2, and power is not supplied to the ink circulation system components such as the pump (supply) 34 and the solenoid valve (supply) 49, and the device does not operate. In this state, the printhead cleaning process ends.

[0144] In step S153, after the head drying step is completed, the power supply of the inkjet recording device 600 is turned OFF, ending the head cleaning process.

[0145] <Effects of Example 1>

[0146] As explained above, according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, when cleaning the printhead 2, the amount of solvent vapor released around the printhead 2 can be reduced, thereby reducing the odor of solvent vapor felt by the operator when cleaning the printhead 2.

[0147] In addition, according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, an inkjet recording device 600 can be provided that can detect that the printhead 2 and the recycling container 4 are disposed on the printhead mounting unit 3 and determine whether printhead cleaning can be performed, thereby preventing erroneous operation.

[0148] Example 2

[0149] Next, the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described. In Embodiment 2, the same apparatus as described in Embodiment 1 is also used. Figure 14 The same structure. Additionally, in Figure 15 The method for detecting the cleaning and drying status in Example 2 is shown in the figure. Figures 1-11 The diagram illustrates the operational flow in Example 2. Regarding... Figure 14 The explanations have already been provided, so they are omitted. Then, use... Figure 15 and Figure 14 The description will focus on the parts that differ from those in Example 1.

[0150] <Determination of Head Cleaning / Drying Status in Example 2>

[0151] First, using Figure 7 This document explains the method for determining ink contamination during head cleaning.

[0152] In the inkjet recording apparatus 600 of Embodiment 2, with the printhead 2 set (mounted) on the printhead mounting unit 3, the inkjet recording apparatus of Embodiment 1 is used. Figure 8 and Figure 14 The method described herein involves discharging a small amount (e.g., 1–5 ml) of solvent 69A from the cleaning nozzle 72, thereby wetting the components assembled in the printhead 2 (nozzle 21, charged electrode 23, deflection electrode 24, flow channel 25, etc.). While the printhead 2 is wet, a voltage (e.g., 1–7 kV) is applied to the deflection electrode 24 using the deflection voltage generating circuit 332.

[0153] The solvent 69A used in the inkjet recording device 600 is a non-conductive liquid, while the ink 68A is a conductive liquid because it contains conductive substances mixed in with the material. The ink 68A adhering to the printhead 2 is non-conductive in its dry state, but becomes conductive when wetted by the solvent 69A. Therefore, if the printhead 2 is wetted by the solvent 69A while contaminated with ink 68A, and a current flows through it by applying a voltage to the deflection electrode 24, it can be detected by the charge sensor 48 assembled in the printhead 2.

[0154] Figure 14 This is a graph showing the voltage detected by charge sensor 48. The horizontal axis represents the specified elapsed time (phase), and the vertical axis represents the magnitude of the detected voltage. Whether contamination caused by ink 68A from printhead 2 is acceptable is determined by the number of records exceeding the threshold level SH within the specified elapsed time. In this embodiment, the case where 0 records exceed the threshold level SH within the specified elapsed time (…) Figure 14 In case (a), it is determined that there is no contamination. In more than one case (such as...) Figure 14 In the case shown in (b), contamination is determined to exist. If contamination is determined to exist, additional head cleaning (solvent 69 is discharged from cleaning nozzle 72) is performed. Then, if there are 0 records exceeding the threshold level SH within the specified elapsed time, it is determined that the amount of ink 68A adhering to the printhead 2 is small and acceptable, and additional head cleaning is not performed.

[0155] Next, use Figure 9 The method for judging the drying status of printhead 2 during the printhead drying process is explained.

[0156] In the inkjet recording apparatus 600 of Embodiment 2, with the printhead 2 set (mounted) on the printhead mounting unit 3, the inkjet recording apparatus of Embodiment 1 is used. Figure 10 and Figure 14The method described herein involves expelling air from the air supply nozzle 73 to dry the solvent 69A adhering to the components assembled in the printhead 2 (nozzle 21, charged electrode 23, deflection electrode 24, flow channel 25, etc.). When the solvent 69A is drying, if the humidity around the printhead mounting unit 3 is high, there is a possibility that water droplets may adhere to the printhead 2 due to the heat of vaporization of the solvent 69A. Therefore, while the printhead 2 is wet, a voltage (e.g., 1–7 kV) is applied to the deflection electrode 24 using the deflection voltage generating circuit 332. If current flows through the deflection electrode 24 by applying voltage, it can be detected by the charge sensor 48 assembled in the printhead 2.

[0157] The determination of the dryness of printhead 2 is performed using charge sensor 48 in the same way as the determination of ink contamination status. For details, please refer to... Figure 14 The following explanation is provided. Whether the dry state of printhead 2 is acceptable is determined by the number of records exceeding the threshold level SH within a specified elapsed time. In this embodiment, the case where more than one record exceeds the threshold level SH within the specified elapsed time is considered acceptable. Figure 14 In state (b), if insufficient drying is detected, additional head drying is performed (air is discharged from the air supply nozzle 73 of the head mounting unit 3, and solvent vapor is drawn from the orifice 81C in the cleaning tank 71 to dry the print head 2). Then, if the number of records exceeding the threshold level SH within the specified elapsed time is 0 ( Figure 15 In case (a), it is determined that the printhead 2 has been dried to a state where there is no problem, and no additional head drying process is performed.

[0158] <Description of the head cleaning process in Example 2>

[0159] Next, the procedure for the head cleaning process of the inkjet recording device 700 in Embodiment 2 will be described using... Figure 15 Please provide an explanation. Figure 15 This is a flowchart of the head cleaning process in Example 2.

[0160] Figure 13 In the text, regarding "steps S201, S211-S214, and S221-S224", the information is different from that in Example 1. Figure 12 The steps S101, S111-S114, and S121-S124 described herein are the same. Therefore, the descriptions of steps S201, S211-S214, and S221-S224 are omitted.

[0161] Step S231 is the head cleaning step, in Figure 12The print head 2 operates when the (1) head cleaning mode selection bar of the head cleaning settings screen shown in the figure is set to "(d) Auto Selection". In the head mounting unit 3, a small amount (e.g., 5 to 10 ml) of solvent 69A is discharged from the cleaning nozzle 72 to clean the print head 2 (head cleaning process).

[0162] In step S232, a voltage is applied to the deflection electrode 24 to check whether the charge sensor 48 detects a voltage exceeding the threshold level SH. The judgment is performed in a binary manner, with "1" for exceeding the threshold level SH and "0" for not exceeding it.

[0163] In step S233, if there are 0 records marked as "1" in the binarization result of step S232 within a certain period of time, it is determined that the ink contamination of printhead 2 has been reduced to the allowable value, and the process proceeds to step S241. If there are more than 1 records marked as "1", it is determined that the ink contamination of printhead 2 has not been reduced to the allowable value, and step S231 is executed again.

[0164] Step S241 is the head drying step, in Figure 15 The printhead 2 operates when the (2) printhead drying time setting column of the printhead cleaning settings screen shown in the figure is set to "(d) Automatic". In the printhead mounting unit 3, the printhead drying process is performed at a time predetermined based on the type of solvent 69A and the values ​​detected by temperature sensor A27 and temperature sensor B80 (air is discharged from the air supply nozzle 73 of the printhead mounting unit 3 and solvent vapor is drawn from the hole 81C in the cleaning tank 71 to dry the printhead 2).

[0165] In step S242, a voltage is applied to the deflection electrode 24 to check whether the charge sensor 48 detects a voltage exceeding the threshold level SH. The judgment is performed in a binary manner, with "1" for exceeding the threshold level SH and "0" for not exceeding it.

[0166] In step S243, if there are 0 records marked as "1" within a certain time period in the binarization result of step S242, it is determined that the print head 2 has dried to the allowable value, and the process proceeds to step S251. If there are more than 1 records marked as "1", it is determined that the print head 2 has not yet dried to the allowable value, and step S241 is executed again. Alternatively, in the re-executed step S241, for example, air can be continuously discharged from the air supply nozzle 73 while a deflection voltage is applied. If no more records marked as "1" exist within the predetermined time period, the process proceeds to step S251.

[0167] Figure 13 In the text, regarding "steps S251 to S253", it is consistent with Example 1. Figures 1-11The steps S151 to S153 described herein are the same, so their descriptions are omitted.

[0168] <Effects of Example 2>

[0169] As explained above, according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, an inkjet recording apparatus 600 is provided, which mounts a printhead 2 on a printhead mounting unit 3, thereby automatically determining the amount of contamination of the printhead 2 caused by ink 68A based on the amount of solvent 69A used, and performing printhead cleaning until it is automatically determined that the ink contamination of the printhead 2 has been removed.

[0170] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, an inkjet recording apparatus 600 can be provided that, with the printhead 2 mounted on the printhead mounting unit, automatically determines the drying state of the printhead 2 and performs printhead drying until it is automatically determined that the printhead 2 is dry.

[0171] Example 3

[0172] Next, the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described. In Embodiment 2, the same apparatus as described in Embodiment 1 is also used. Figures 1-11 The same structure. Therefore, information about... Figure 16 The following explanation focuses on the operation flow of Example 3.

[0173] <Explanation of the Stop Processing Procedure in Example 3>

[0174] Next, use Figure 16 This describes the operation flow of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment when it stops operating. Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the operation stop process in Example 3.

[0175] Figure 16 First, in step S301, press the start button for operation stop processing displayed on the touch panel type operation display unit 8. Alternatively, press the start button 18 included in the printhead mounting unit 3. The start button for operation stop processing becomes effective when the inkjet recording device 600 is in a state where the ink circulation system components such as the pump (supply) 34 and the solenoid valve (supply) 49 are powered and ink is discharged from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2.

[0176] Figure 13 In the text, regarding "steps S311-S314 and S321-S324", the information is different from that in Example 1. Figure 16 The steps S101, S111-S114, and S121-S124 described herein are the same. Therefore, the descriptions of steps S311-S314 and S321-S324 are omitted.

[0177] In step S331, there is an ink discharge stop step, which stops the discharge of ink 68A from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2.

[0178] In step S332, which is the nozzle cleaning step, solvent 69A is supplied to the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2 via the switching valve 26 to clean from the inside of the nozzle 21.

[0179] Figure 15 In the text, "steps S333-S335 and steps S341-S343" are related to Example 2. Figure 16 The actions described in the text are the same as those in "steps S231 to S233 and steps S241 to S243". Therefore, the descriptions of "steps S333 to S335 and steps S341 to S343" are omitted.

[0180] Figure 13 In the text, "steps S351 to S353" are the same as in Example 1. Figures 1-11 The actions described in "Steps S151 to S153" are the same. Therefore, the description of "Steps S351 to S353" is omitted.

[0181] <Effects of Example 3>

[0182] As explained above, according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, an inkjet recording apparatus 600 can be provided in which the printhead 2 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3 in an operating state (ink 68A is discharged from the nozzle 21), thereby automatically performing a series of processes including ink discharge stop processing (stopping ink 68A from being discharged from the nozzle 21), nozzle cleaning processing (discharging solvent 69A from the nozzle 21 to clean the passage), and head cleaning processing (discharging solvent 69A from the cleaning nozzle 72 to clean the printhead 2 from the outside).

[0183] Example 4

[0184] Next, the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described. In this Embodiment 4, the same method as described in Embodiment 1 is also employed. Figures 1-11 The same structure. Therefore, information about... Figures 17-20 The explanation is as follows. For Example 4, the main usage is... Figure 17 Please provide an explanation.

[0185] <Phase Search Method in Example 4>

[0186] The phase search method of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 17 It is a timing diagram showing the phase relationship between the excitation signal and the charged voltage used for phase search.Figure 3 In the diagram, (a) is an example of detecting the timing of the applied voltage, which is an excitation signal used as a granular reference. (b) is a magnified diagram of one cycle of the excitation signal. (c) is a diagram showing the charged waveforms of each phase when one cycle of the excitation signal is divided into eight equal parts and a charged signal of half a cycle starting from each phase is applied.

[0187] In the inkjet recording apparatus 600, in order to detect the optimal timing for applying the charged voltage, in a state where no printing is being performed (such as the interval between printing), a charged voltage is applied to the ink particles 68B1 relative to an excitation signal that serves as a reference for particle formation, to a degree that does not cross the flow channel 25, thereby shifting the charged phase, and the amount of minute charged charge 68B2 in each phase is detected. That is, phase search is performed using the charged voltage for phase search.

[0188] To generate the phase search voltage for phase search, the phase search voltage generator circuit 341 (see reference) Figure 18 A charged signal is generated to produce a variety of phase search charged voltages for changing the phase relative to the excitation voltage. The phase search charged voltage is the magnitude of the deflection amount that prevents the ink particles 68B1 charged by the charged voltage from crossing the flow channel 25 (which can be captured by the flow channel 25). The phase detection signal output from the charge sensor 48, corresponding to the amount of charge 68B2 of the ink particles 68B1 charged by the charged voltage, is input to the phase determination circuit 351 and the A / D converter 352 via the amplifier circuit 353.

[0189] The waveform of the phase detection signal output from amplifier circuit 353 is as follows: Figure 18 The waveform changes as shown in (a) to (c). When the inkjet recording device 600 is in normal operation, the waveform of the phase detection signal changes with the phase change caused by the phase search voltage, as shown in (a) to (c). Figure 18 The changes are shown in (a).

[0190] The phase detection circuit 351 receives such a phase detection signal, compares the phase detection signal of each input phase with the threshold level SH and binarizes it, classifying those exceeding the threshold level SH as "1" and those not exceeding it as "0", and inputs this value to the MPU 301. The MPU 301 determines the phase from "0" to "1" in the binarized phase detection signal as the optimal phase for generating the charging voltage that charges the ink particles 68B, and generates a printing charging signal in the manner of the subsequent printing charging voltage occurring at that phase.

[0191] Then, when the inkjet recording device 600 is in an abnormal state, the waveform of the phase detection signal becomes as follows: Figure 18 The state shown in (b) or (c).

[0192] Figure 18 (b) indicates a state where records judged as "1" do not exist at all, exceeding the threshold level. For example, there is a situation where ink particles 68B discharged from nozzle 21 deviate from their original flight direction and cannot be recovered by the flow channel 25, but instead splash (this phenomenon is called beam bending). In this state, the charged signal of ink particles 68B1 cannot be detected by the charge sensor 48, becoming as follows: Figure 18 The waveform of the phase detection signal shown in (b) is shown.

[0193] Figure 18 (c) indicates a state where all (8) signals exceed the threshold level and are judged as "1". For example, when the printhead 2 is contaminated with ink 68A, voltage leakage will occur when a deflection voltage (1-7kV) is applied to the deflection electrode 24. Then, in the charge sensor 48, the voltage different from that of the ink particles 68B1 is detected as noise, becoming... Figure 19 The waveform of the phase detection signal shown in (c) is shown.

[0194] <Screen Structure of Example 4>

[0195] To set the ink discharge start screen in the head mounting unit 3 of the inkjet recording device 600 of Embodiment 4, use... Figure 19 Please provide an explanation. Additionally, make... Figure 20 The screen is displayed on the operation display unit 8.

[0196] First, in the "(1) Select Ink Discharge Start Method in Head Mounting Unit 3" section of the ink discharge start setting screen, select either "(a) Discharge Ink" or "(b) Head Cleaning + Discharge Ink". If "(a) Discharge Ink" is selected, the head cleaning process is not performed; only the ink discharge process is executed. Then, if "(b) Head Cleaning + Discharge Ink" is selected, the ink discharge process is executed after the head cleaning process is performed.

[0197] Next, in the "(2) Set Ink Discharge Start Time" section of the ink discharge start setting screen in the head mounting unit 3, select either "(c) Immediate" or "(d) Scheduled Date and Time". If "(c) Immediate" is set, pressing the "(f) Confirm" button will immediately start the ink discharge start process in the head mounting unit. Then, if "(d) Scheduled Date and Time" is selected, you can set the "year, month, day, hour, and minute" when the ink discharge in the head mounting unit will begin.

[0198] Next, in the “(3) Retry count when an error occurs” section of the ink discharge setting screen in the head mounting unit, you can set the number of times in the “(e) Setting count” range from 0 to 5.

[0199] Then, after completing the series of settings (1) to (3) on the ink discharge start setting screen in the head-mounting unit, press either the "(f) Confirm" or "(g) Cancel" button. If the "(f) Confirm" button is pressed, the settings (1) to (3) currently displayed are overwritten and written to the control unit 7, and the settings are reflected the next time the ink discharge start is executed in the head-mounting unit. Alternatively, if the "(g) Cancel" button is pressed, the settings (1) to (3) currently displayed are not overwritten and written to the control unit 7, and the settings (displayed on the screen) used when the "(f) Confirm" button was pressed are continued the next time the ink discharge start is executed in the head-mounting unit.

[0200] <Explanation of the Start-up Procedure for Example 4>

[0201] Next, the operation flow of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment for starting operation (starting ink discharge) will be described using... Figure 20 Please provide an explanation. Figure 20 This is a flowchart of the operation start-up process in Example 4.

[0202] Figure 20 First, in step S401, press the start button displayed on the operation display unit 8 for starting operation (starting ink discharge). Alternatively, press the start button 18 included in the printhead mounting unit 3. The start button for starting operation (starting ink discharge) is effective when the inkjet recording device 600 stops discharging ink from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2 and stops supplying power to ink circulation system components such as the pump (supply) 34 and the solenoid valve (supply) 49, thus preventing them from operating.

[0203] Figure 13 In the text, "steps S411-S414 and steps S421-S424" are related to Example 1. Figure 19 The actions described in the text are the same as those in "steps S111 to S114 and steps S121 to S124". Therefore, the descriptions of "steps S411 to S414 and steps S421 to S424" are omitted.

[0204] In step S431, if Figure 19If the setting in the "(2) Ink Discharge Start Time Setting" field of the ink discharge start setting screen shown in the figure is "(c) Immediate", then proceed to step S441; if it is "(d) Scheduled Date and Time", then set the date and time for the next ink discharge and proceed to step S432.

[0205] In step S432, the inkjet recording device 600 is in a rest state (stopping the discharge of ink from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2, and not supplying power to ink circulation system components such as the pump (supply) 34 and the solenoid valve (supply) 49 and thus not operating), and remains on standby until the date and time set in step S431 is reached.

[0206] In step S433, it is confirmed whether the date and time set in step S431 has been reached. If the set appointment time has been reached, it is judged as "yes" and the process proceeds to step S441. If the set appointment time has not been reached, it is judged as "no" and step S432 is executed again.

[0207] In step S441, if Figure 19 If the content set in the "(1) Ink Discharge Start Method Selection Bar for Head Mounting Unit" on the ink discharge start setting screen shown in the figure is "(a) Discharge Ink", then proceed to step S451. If it is "(b) Head Cleaning + Discharge Ink", then set the date and time to start discharging ink and proceed to step S442.

[0208] In step S442, the implementation of embodiment 2 is carried out. Figure 18 The steps S231 to S233 and S241 to S243 are described in the text.

[0209] In step S451, ink particles 68B are started to be discharged from nozzle 21. A charged charge for phase search is applied to the ink particles 68B using charged electrode 23, and the signal is detected by charge sensor 48. Then, a deflection voltage (1-7 kV) is applied using deflection electrode 24.

[0210] In step S452, as Figure 19 As explained in the document, the phase detection data is detected by the charge sensor 48, and the data is binarized and judged with records exceeding the threshold level SH as "1" and records not exceeding as "0".

[0211] In step S461, the number of records marked as "1" in one cycle (8 phases) of the binarization result from step S452 is counted to confirm whether there is more than one "1". If there is more than one "1", it is determined as "yes" (ink particles 68B are captured by the flow channel 25), and the process proceeds to step S481. If there are zero "1" phases, it is determined as "no" (ink particles 68B are not captured by the flow channel 25), and the process proceeds to step S462.

[0212] In step S462, because an abnormality is detected, the ink discharge from nozzle 21 is stopped.

[0213] In step S463, confirm Figures 1-11 The number of times (e) setting count is entered in the "Retry Count" column of the ink discharge start setting screen in the head mounting unit shown in the figure (3) when an abnormality occurs (e) setting count). If the number of times the ink discharge stops in S462 is less than the number of times (e) setting count is entered (e) setting count) (e.g., 2 times), then step S442 is executed again. Then, if the number of times the ink discharge stops in S462 is more than the number of times (e) setting count is entered (e.g., 2 times), then proceed to step S471.

[0214] In step S471, after the head cleaning process is performed, an error confirmation message is displayed on the operation display unit 8 of the main body 1 or the display unit 20 of the head mounting unit 3 to notify that the operation start (ink discharge start) process has failed.

[0215] In step S472, the inkjet recording device 600 is in standby mode when ink is stopped being discharged from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2 and the ink circulation system components such as the pump (supply) 34 and the solenoid valve (supply) 49 are not powered and therefore not operated.

[0216] In step S481, the number of records that are judged as "1" in one cycle (8 phases) in the binarization result of step S452 is counted to confirm whether "1" is less than 7 phases. If it is less than 7 phases, it is judged as "yes" (the printhead 2 has less smudges) and proceeds to step S482. If "1" is more than 8 phases, it is judged as "no" (the printhead 2 has more smudges) and proceeds to step S462.

[0217] In step S482, the process of discharging ink from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2, capturing ink particles 68B with the flow channel 25, and performing normal charged phase search indicates that the operation start (ink discharge start) process has been completed.

[0218] <Effects of Example 4>

[0219] As explained above, according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention, an inkjet recording apparatus 600 can be provided that performs an operation start (ink discharge start) process with the printhead 2 mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3, thereby preventing contamination of the peripheral equipment of the printhead 2 even if beam bending occurs (such as ink particles 68B discharged from the nozzle 21 not entering the flow channel 25 and the printhead 2 being contaminated by ink).

[0220] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention, an inkjet recording apparatus 600 can be provided that performs an operation start (ink discharge start) process with the printhead 2 mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3, thereby automatically performing repair processes such as printhead cleaning even if the jet beam bends.

[0221] Example 5

[0222] Next, the inkjet recording apparatus 600 in Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described. In this Embodiment 5, the same method as described in Embodiment 1 is also employed. Figures 1-11 The same structure. Therefore, details about... Figures 21-25 The explanation is as follows. Additionally, the explanation of parts common to Examples 1 through 4 described above is omitted. For Example 5, the main use is... Figures 21-23 Please provide an explanation.

[0223] <Motion and Fluid Flow>

[0224] First, regarding the operation of ink circulation between the main body 1 and the printhead 2 when the printhead 2 is mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3, using Figure 21 Please provide an explanation. Figure 22 The flow diagram is shown in thick lines, representing the flow of liquid during ink circulation within the main body in Example 5. Figure 23 The diagram shows the flow of liquid and gas during ink circulation in the body and printhead in Example 5, represented by thick lines. Figure 21 This is a diagram showing the flow of ink during nozzle cleaning and circulation path cleaning in Example 5.

[0225] Figure 22 The inkjet recording device 600 in Embodiment 5 is in a state where the printhead 2 is mounted on the head mounting unit 3, and the flow path diagram of the liquid flow during ink circulation in the main body 1 is shown by thick lines (C1 to C2).

[0226] In main body 1, energizing solenoid valve (supply) 49 and solenoid valve (main body circulation) 58 opens the flow path, causing pump (supply) 34 and pump (recovery) 35 to operate. As shown by the thick line of arrow C1, ink 68A collected in ink container 31 of main body 1 returns to ink container 31 through solenoid valve (supply) 49, pump (supply) 34, filter (supply) 39, pressure regulating valve 46, pressure sensor 47, solenoid valve (main body circulation) 58, and pump (recovery) 35, thereby circulating ink 68A.

[0227] Furthermore, in the main body 1, energizing the solenoid valve (for viscosity measurement) 57 opens the flow path, causing the pump (for circulation) 36 to operate. As shown by the thick line of arrow C2, the ink 68A contained in the ink container 31 of the main body 1 returns to the ink container 31 via the viscometer 45, the solenoid valve (for viscosity measurement) 57, and the pump (for circulation) 36, thus circulating the ink 68A. Additionally, by controlling the timing of ink circulation within the main body 1 and measuring the viscosity of the ink 68A using the viscometer 45, the state of the ink 68A can be easily determined for the next use.

[0228] then, Figure 23 The diagram, with thick lines (D1 to D7), shows the flow path of the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment when the printhead 2 is mounted on the printhead mounting unit 3 and the ink is circulated between the main body and the printhead.

[0229] In the ink supply passages (passages 801-804), the solenoid valve (supply) 49 is energized to open the flow path, and the switching valve 26 is energized to connect the ink supply passages to the nozzle 21, causing the pump (supply) 34 to operate. As shown by the thick line of arrow D1, the ink 68A contained in the ink container 31 of the main body 1 is supplied to the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2, and discharged from the nozzle 21 as ink particles 68B. The ink particles 68B are in a state where a voltage is applied by the charged electrode 23, and their charge is confirmed by the charge sensor 48.

[0230] In ink recovery channels 811-812, the solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (for recovery) 35 to operate. As shown by the thick arrow D2, ink particles 68B and air surrounding the printhead 2 are drawn from the flow channel 25 and pumped into the ink container 31 of the main body 1. In ink recovery channels 811-812, ink 68A and air flow in a gas-liquid mixture state. Therefore, the solvent component of ink 68A dissolves into the air, and the air becomes a solvent gas, flowing into the ink container 31. The ink that has flowed into the ink container 31 is collected at the bottom, and the air, which has become a solvent gas, is discharged to the outside of the main body 1 as a solvent gas, as shown by the thick arrow D3.

[0231] In the inkjet recording device 600, the solvent component in the ink 68A is discharged to the outside of the device as solvent gas. Therefore, when the operating time is long, the proportion of solvent component in the ink 68A decreases, resulting in a higher concentration of ink 68A. Conversely, when the operating time is short, the solvent 69A flowing into the ink container 31 due to nozzle cleaning and other processes results in a lower ink concentration. Therefore, in the passages (viscosity measuring) 824 and 822, the solenoid valve (viscosity measuring) 57 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (circulation) 36 to operate. As shown by the thick line of arrow D5, ink 68A from the ink container 31 is supplied to the viscosity measuring device 45, and the viscosity (converted to concentration) of the ink 68A is measured periodically. The measured viscosity value is input to the control unit 7. As a result, the control unit 7 controls the ink container 31 to replenish the ink container 31 with the ink 68C from the auxiliary ink container 32 when the ink concentration of ink 68A is low, and to replenish the ink container 31 with the solvent 69A from the solvent container 33 as shown by the thick line of arrow D7 when the ink concentration of ink 68A is high. In this way, the viscosity of ink 68A is controlled to be maintained within the management value range in the inkjet recording apparatus 600.

[0232] Furthermore, in ink circulation paths 821-822, as shown by the thick arrow D1, when ink 68A is supplied from ink container 31 to nozzle 21, the solenoid valve (circulation) 59 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (circulation) 36 to operate. At least a portion of the ink 68A supplied to nozzle 21 is drawn back to ink container 31 by the pump (circulation) 36, flowing back as shown by the thick arrow D3, thus circulating the ink 68A. Additionally, before energizing the switching valve 26, the solenoid valve (main circulation) 58 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (circulation) 36 to operate. This allows ink 68A to also circulate in path (main circulation) 808, as shown by the thick arrow D6.

[0233] then, Figure 24 The diagram, with thick lines (E1 to E7), shows the flow of ink during nozzle cleaning and circulation path cleaning when the inkjet recording device 600 in Embodiment 5 is in the state of having the printhead 2 mounted on the head mounting unit 3.

[0234] In the nozzle cleaning passages (passages 831 and 835), the solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning) 55 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (for solvent) 37 to operate. As shown by the thick arrow E1, the solvent 69A stored in the solvent container 33 of the main body 1 is supplied to the print head 2 and discharged from the nozzle 21. Then, in the ink recovery passages 811 to 812, the solenoid valve (for recovery) 50 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (for recovery) 35 to operate. As shown by the thick arrow E1, the flow channel 25 captures the solvent 69A discharged from the nozzle 21 and recovers it to the ink container 31.

[0235] In the ink circulation paths 821-822, with solvent 69A supplied from the solvent container 33 to the nozzle 21 as indicated by the thick arrow E1, the solenoid valve (for circulation) 59 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (for circulation) 36 to operate. At least a portion of the solvent 69A supplied to the nozzle 21 is drawn by the pump (for circulation) 36 and returned to the ink container 31 according to the flow indicated by the thick arrow E3. Thus, the inkjet recording device 600 can use the solvent 69A to clean the nozzle 21 and the ink circulation paths 811-812 and 821-822.

[0236] In addition, after the cleaning of the passages (nozzle 21 and ink recovery passages 811-812, ink circulation passages 821-822) is completed, in the main body 1, the solenoid valve (supply) 49 and the solenoid valve (main body circulation) 58 are energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (supply) 34 and the pump (recovery) 35 to operate, thereby circulating the ink 68A collected in the ink container 31 of the main body 1 as shown by the thick line of arrow E7.

[0237] Furthermore, in the main body 1, the solenoid valve (for viscosity measurement) 57 is energized to open the flow path, causing the pump (for circulation) 36 to operate. As shown by the thick line of arrow E6, the ink 68A stored in the ink container 31 of the main body 1 is supplied to the viscosity meter 45. During the circulation of ink in the main body 1, the viscosity of the ink 68A is measured using the viscosity meter 45, and the state of the ink 68A is known at the next use.

[0238] <Screen Structure of Example 5>

[0239] For the ink circulation function setting screen of the inkjet recording device 600 in Example 5 when it is stopped for a long time, use Figure 24 Please provide an explanation. Additionally, make... Figure 25 The screen is displayed on the operation display unit 8.

[0240] First, in the "(1) Ink circulation start time setting column" of the ink circulation function setting screen when the head unit is stopped for a long time, enter "(a) a certain hour and minute".

[0241] Next, in the "(2) Retry count setting column when an abnormality occurs" of the ink circulation function setting screen when the head unit is stopped for a long time, you can set the number of times in the range of 0 to 5 in "(b) Setting number".

[0242] Next, in the "(3) Next Start Date and Time Reservation" section of the ink circulation function setting screen for long-term inactivity within the head-mount unit, select either "(c) Do not perform" or "(d) Reserve Date and Time". If "(c) Do not perform" is selected, the ink circulation function for long-term inactivity within the head-mount unit will be executed, but the start-up (ink discharge start) process will not be performed at the determined time. If "(d) Reserve Date and Time" is selected, the "year, month, day, hour, and minute" at which ink discharge from the head-mount unit will begin can be set.

[0243] Then, after completing the series of settings (1) to (3) on the ink circulation function setting screen for long-term inactivity within the head mount unit, press either the "(e) Confirm" or "(f) Cancel" button. If the "(e) Confirm" button is pressed, the currently displayed settings (1) to (3) are overwritten and written to the control unit 7, and the ink circulation function for long-term inactivity within the head mount unit is started. Alternatively, if the "(f) Cancel" button is pressed, the currently displayed settings (1) to (3) are not overwritten and written to the control unit 7, and the ink circulation function for long-term inactivity within the head mount unit is not started.

[0244] <Example 5: Ink circulation start-up procedure during long-term operation shutdown>

[0245] Next, the procedure for initiating ink circulation processing when the inkjet recording device 600 in this embodiment is stopped after a long period of operation is described using... Figure 25 Please provide an explanation. Figure 25 This is a flowchart of the ink circulation process during long-term operation stoppage in Example 5.

[0246] Figure 25 First, in step S501, the start button for starting ink circulation during long-term operation stoppage, displayed on the touch-screen operation display 8, is pressed. The start button for starting ink circulation during long-term operation stoppage becomes effective when the inkjet recording device 600 is in a state where ink is stopped being discharged from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2, and the ink circulation system components such as the pump (supply) 34 and the solenoid valve (supply) 49 are not powered and therefore not operated.

[0247] Figure 13 In the text, regarding "steps S511-S514 and S521-S524", the information is different from that in Example 1. Figure 24 The steps S111 to S114 and S121 to S124 described herein are the same. Therefore, the descriptions of steps S511 to S514 and S521 to S524 are omitted.

[0248] In step S531, confirm Figure 24 In the ink circulation function setting screen shown in the image for a long-term shutdown of the head mounting unit, the content of "(d) Reservation Date and Time" is set in the "(3) Next Start Date and Time Reservation Field". Then, if the set reservation time has been reached, it is judged as "Yes" and proceeds to step S532. If the set reservation time has not been reached, it is judged as "No" and proceeds to step S541. In addition, in Figure 24 If the content set in the next start date and time reservation column shown in (3) is "(c) Do not proceed", it is also judged as "No" and proceeds to step S541.

[0249] In step S541, for Figure 21 The setting content of "(a) a certain hour and minute" in the "(1) Ink circulation start time setting column" of the ink circulation function setting screen in the printhead unit shown in the figure is confirmed. The inkjet recording device 600 is in a rest state (the ink is stopped from being discharged from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2, and the ink circulation system components such as the pump (supply) 34 and the solenoid valve (supply) 49 are not powered and do not operate) until the set time is reached.

[0250] In step S542, implementation Figure 20 The ink circulation within the main body 1 is described in the text.

[0251] In step S543, the same process as in S541 is performed.

[0252] In step S544, since the time confirmed in step S541 has been reached, the ink discharge process is started.

[0253] In step S551, the implementation in Example 4 is performed. Figure 22 The steps described are "S441-S442, S451-S452, S461-S463, S71-S472, and S481-S482".

[0254] In step S552, implementation Figure 22 The ink circulation of the main body 1 and printhead 2 is described in the text.

[0255] In step S561, the viscosity of ink 68A is measured using a viscometer 45. The ink concentration is calculated based on the relationship between temperature and viscosity for each type of ink recorded in the control unit 7.

[0256] In step S562, it is determined whether the ink concentration calculated in step 561 is higher than a predetermined threshold. If it is higher than the threshold, it is determined to be "yes" and proceeds to step S571. If it is lower than the threshold, it is determined to be "no" and step S552 is executed again. In the inkjet recording device 600, by performing... Figure 23 The ink circulation described herein can increase the ink concentration of Ink 68A.

[0257] In step S571, the energization of the switching valve 26 is cut off, thereby stopping the discharge of ink from the nozzle 21.

[0258] In step S572, implementation Figure 20 The nozzle cleaning and circulation path cleaning described herein shall be performed again in step S531.

[0259] In step S532, the implementation in Example 4 is performed. ​ The steps described are "S441-S442, S451-S452, S461-S463, S71-S472, and S481-S482".

[0260] In step S533, the process of discharging ink from the nozzle 21 of the printhead 2, capturing ink particles 68B with the flow channel 25, and performing normal charged phase search indicates that the operation start (ink discharge start) process has been completed.

[0261] <Effects of Example 5>

[0262] As explained above, according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention, an inkjet recording device 600 can be provided, which, when the printhead 2 is set (installed) on the head mounting unit 3, automatically performs ink circulation of the main body 1 and the printhead 2 after a certain period of time in order to prevent the ink circulation system components from solidifying when not in use for a long time. Even if a fault such as beam bending occurs, it can automatically repair itself and restart ink circulation of the main body 1 and the printhead 2 after a certain period of time.

[0263] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention, an inkjet recording device 600 can be provided that automatically performs ink circulation between the main body 1 and the printhead 2 after a certain period of time until a predetermined start date (ink discharge start) is reached, thereby reducing malfunctions at the start of operation.

[0264] Other embodiments

[0265] The embodiments 1 to 5 have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and includes various modifications. Furthermore, the above embodiments are described in detail for ease of understanding of the present invention and are not limited to including all the structures described.

[0266] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0267] 1…Main body, 2…Print head, 3…Print head mounting unit, 4…Recycle container, 5…Cable (for print head), 6…Cable (for print head mounting unit), 7…Control unit, 8…Operation display unit, 11…Conveyor belt, 12A…Printing object, 12B…Printing object, 13…Print head fixing component, 16…Print head base, 17…Protective cover, 18…Start button, 19…Stop button, 20…Display unit, 21…Nozzle, 23…Electrically charged electrode, 24…Deflection electrode, 24A…Positive electrode, 24B…Ground electrode, 25…Flow channel, 26…Switching valve, 27…Temperature sensor A, 28…Magnetic sensor C, 28A…Wire, 31…Ink container, 31A…Liquid level sensor, 32…Auxiliary ink container 33…Solvent container, 34…Pump (for supply), 35…Pump (for recovery), 36…Pump (for circulation), 37…Pump (for solvent), 39…Filter (for supply), 40…Filter (for recovery), 41…Filter (for nozzle cleaning), 43…Filter (for head cleaning), 45…Viscosity meter, 46…Pressure regulating valve, 47…Pressure sensor, 48…Charge sensor, 49…Solenoid valve (for supply), 50…Solenoid valve (for recovery), 53…Solenoid valve (for solvent replenishment), 54…Solenoid valve (for ink replenishment), 55…Solenoid valve (for nozzle cleaning), 56…Solenoid valve (for head cleaning), 57…Solenoid valve (for viscosity measurement), 58…Solenoid valve (for main body circulation), 59…Solenoid valve (for circulation) 60… Pump (for drying), 61… Pump (for suction), 62… Exhaust duct connection, 68A… Ink, 68B… Ink particles, 68B1… Ink particles, 68B2… Charged, 68C… Ink, 69A… Solvent, 70… Liquid, 71… Cleaning tank, 71A… Mounting part, 72… Cleaning nozzle, 72A… Liquid discharge hole A, 72B… Liquid discharge hole B, 73… Air supply nozzle, 73A… Air discharge hole, 74… Float, 75… Magnet A, 76… Magnetic sensor A, 76A… Wire, 77… Container, 77A… Mounting part, 77B… Liquid storage part, 77C… Internal thread part, 78… Separator, 78A… Liquid inlet hole, 78B… Liquid outlet hole, 79… Support bracket, 80…Temperature sensor B, 80A…Wire, 81…Cleaning module, 81A…Head mounting part, 81B…Head insertion part, 81C…Hole part, 81D…Flow path A part, 81E…Flow path B part, 81F…Flow path C part, 82…Cover hinge, 83…Cover component, 84…Magnetic sensor B, 84A…Wire, 85…Cover, 86…Magnet B, 87…Magnet C, 88…Suction connector, 88A…Cavity, 88B…Connector A part, 88C…Connector B part, 89…Liquid connector, 90…Air connector, 91…Fixing part, 92…Fixing clamp (for conveyor belt), 93…Matching part, 301…MPU, 302…Bus, 306…ROM, 307…RAM, 311…Viscosity measurement circuit,312…Pressure detection circuit, 313…Liquid level detection circuit, 314…Pump control circuit, 315…Solenoid valve drive circuit, 321…Air pump control circuit, 322…Recovery container sensor detection circuit, 323…Printhead detection circuit, 324…Printhead mounting unit detection circuit, 331…Excitation voltage generation circuit, 332…Deflection voltage generation circuit, 341…Phase search charged signal generation circuit, 342…Printed charged signal generation circuit, 343…D / A converter, 344…Amplifier circuit, 351…Phase judgment circuit, 352…A / D converter, 353…Amplifier circuit, 600…Inkjet printer Recording device, 801-804… passage (supply), 806… passage (replenishment), 808… passage (main body circulation), 811-812… passage (recovery), 814… passage (exhaust), 821-822… passage (head circulation), 824… passage (viscosity measurement), 831… passage (solvent supply), 833… passage (solvent replenishment), 835… passage (nozzle cleaning), 837… passage (head cleaning), 841… passage (air supply), 843… passage (air suction), 901-903… manifold, 921-922… branch passage.

Claims

1. An inkjet recording apparatus characterized by comprising: includes: a print head that performs printing, having a nozzle that atomizes and discharges ink particles delivered, a charging electrode that charges the ink particles discharged from the nozzle, a deflection electrode that deflects the ink particles charged by the charging electrode, and a gutter that recovers unused ink that is not used for printing; a main body that includes a passage for supplying ink in an ink container to the print head, a passage for recovering the ink that is not used for printing to the ink container, a passage for supplying a solvent in a solvent container to the ink container, and a regulating portion that regulates the flow of the ink and the solvent in each passage; a control portion that controls the main body and the print head; and a head mounting unit that includes a cleaning tank having a space capable of accommodating the print head and having an opening portion at a lower portion, and a recovery container that recovers liquid that flows out from the opening portion, a solvent vapor suction passage that is provided in connection with the cleaning tank to suction and discharge solvent vapor generated in the cleaning tank, and a driving portion that discharges the solvent vapor, a charge sensor that is provided to detect the amount of charge of ink particles charged by the charging electrode, the control portion inputting the amount of charge inputted by the charge sensor, and stopping the discharge of ink from the nozzle in a case where it is determined that the level of the amount of charge does not exceed a threshold value set in advance.

2. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: a print head detector that detects a case where the print head is placed in the cleaning tank is provided in the head mounting unit.

3. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: a detector that detects a case where the recovery container is mounted in the opening portion of the cleaning tank is provided in the head mounting unit.

4. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the solvent vapor suction passage has a chamber that accommodates liquid contained in the solvent vapor.

5. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the head mounting unit is connected to the main body by a cable.

6. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the head mounting unit includes a cleaning nozzle that discharges a solvent to the print head accommodated in the cleaning tank.

7. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: the cleaning nozzle includes a nozzle hole that discharges the solvent to the nozzle of the print head, and a nozzle hole that discharges the solvent to the deflection electrode of the print head.

8. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: an air discharge port that discharges air for drying the print head in the cleaning tank is formed in the head mounting unit.

9. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the solvent vapor suction passage is connected to the main body side.

10. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 9, wherein: The main body includes a solvent vapor discharge passage connected to the ink container, and the solvent vapor outlet portion of the solvent vapor suction passage and the outlet portion of the solvent vapor discharge passage discharge the solvent vapor into the same space.

11. An inkjet recording apparatus characterized by comprising: Comprise: a print head having a nozzle that atomizes and discharges ink particles delivered thereto, a charging electrode that charges the ink particles discharged from the nozzle, a deflection electrode that deflects the ink particles charged by the charging electrode, and a gutter that recovers unused ink that is not used for printing; a main body that includes an ink supply passage for supplying the ink in an ink container to the nozzle, an ink recovery passage for recovering the unused ink recovered by the gutter into the ink, a solvent supply passage for supplying a solvent in a solvent container, and a regulating portion that regulates the flow of the ink and the solvent in each passage; a control portion that controls the main body and the print head; and a head mounting unit that includes a cleaning tank having a space in which the print head can be accommodated, a cleaning nozzle that discharges the solvent to the print head accommodated in the cleaning tank, and an air discharge outlet that discharges air that dries the print head in the cleaning tank, a charge sensor that detects the amount of charge of the ink particles charged by the charging electrode is provided, the control portion causes the solvent to be discharged from the cleaning nozzle to clean the print head, and then detects whether the charge sensor reacts in a state in which a voltage is applied to the deflection electrode, the control portion inputs the amount of charge input by the charge sensor, and stops discharging ink from the nozzle in a case where it is determined that the level of the amount of charge does not exceed a threshold value set in advance.

12. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 11, wherein: the control portion performs control to additionally discharge the solvent from the cleaning nozzle in a case where the charge sensor reacts.

13. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 11, wherein: the control portion confirms whether the charge sensor reacts before and after the air is discharged from the air discharge outlet.

14. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 13, wherein: the control portion additionally discharges the air from the air discharge outlet in a case where the charge sensor reacts.

15. An inkjet recording apparatus characterized by comprising: Comprise: a print head having a nozzle that atomizes and discharges ink particles delivered thereto, a charging electrode that charges the ink particles discharged from the nozzle, a deflection electrode that deflects the ink particles charged by the charging electrode, and a gutter that recovers unused ink that is not used for printing; a main body that includes an ink supply passage for supplying the ink in an ink container to the nozzle, an ink recovery passage for recovering the unused ink recovered by the gutter into the ink container, a solvent supply passage for supplying a solvent in a solvent container, and a regulating portion that regulates the flow of the ink and the solvent in each passage; a control portion that controls the main body and the print head; and a head mounting unit that can accommodate the print head, In a case where the inkjet recording apparatus performs a start-up process, the control section causes ink particles to start to be discharged from the nozzles after confirming that the print head has been mounted to the head mounting unit, A charge sensor for detecting a charge amount of ink particles charged by the charging electrode is provided, and the control section inputs the charge amount input by the charge sensor, and stops the discharge of ink from the nozzles in a case where it is determined that the level of the charge amount does not exceed a threshold value set in advance.

16. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 15, wherein: In a case where the inkjet recording apparatus performs a stop process, the control section causes the ink to stop to be discharged from the nozzles after confirming that the print head has been mounted to the head mounting unit.

17. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 16, wherein: The control section causes the solvent to be discharged from the nozzles and the solvent to be sucked from the sump after causing the ink particles to stop to be discharged from the nozzles.

18. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 15, wherein: The head mounting unit has a cleaning nozzle that discharges a solvent to the print head accommodated therein and an air discharge port that discharges air that dries the print head in the cleaning tank.

19. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 18, wherein: The cleaning nozzle includes a liquid discharge hole, and the control section causes the solvent to be discharged from the liquid discharge hole after causing the ink to stop to be discharged from the nozzles.

20. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 18, wherein: The cleaning nozzle includes a liquid discharge hole, and the control section causes the solvent to be discharged from the liquid discharge hole after causing the ink particles to stop to be discharged from the nozzles.

21. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 20, wherein: The control section causes the ink to be discharged from the nozzles after causing the solvent to stop to be discharged from the liquid discharge hole.

22. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 15, wherein: The control section performs a timing at which the ink is caused to start to be discharged from the nozzles at a timing set in advance.

23. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 15, wherein: The control section repeatedly performs a cycle in which the ink is caused to start to be discharged from the nozzles, the ink is caused to circulate in the passage for a certain time set in advance, and the ink is caused to stop to be discharged from the nozzles at a predetermined interval in a state where the print head has been mounted to the head mounting unit.

24. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 23, wherein: A viscosity measurer for measuring the viscosity of the ink is provided in the main body, and the control section measures the viscosity with the viscosity measurer periodically while the ink is being discharged from the nozzles, and continues to discharge the ink from the nozzles in a case where the viscosity does not exceed a viscosity threshold value set in advance.

25. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 23, wherein: The control section stops discharge of the ink from the nozzle when the level of the electric charge exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

26. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 25, wherein: The cleaning nozzle included in the head mounting unit has a liquid discharge hole for discharging the solvent, and the control section discharges the solvent from the liquid discharge hole after stopping discharge of the ink from the nozzle.

27. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 26, wherein: The control section discharges the ink from the nozzle after stopping discharge of the solvent from the liquid discharge hole.

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