Liquid discharge equipment

Abstract

A liquid discharge device is provided, comprising: a head; a storage section including a liquid storage chamber and an atmospheric communication path; a liquid flow path connecting the head to the liquid storage chamber; a switching component for switching the state of the atmospheric communication path between a connected state and a disconnected state; and a controller. The controller performs: a disconnection process, wherein the controller controls the switching component to switch the state of the atmospheric communication path from a connected state to a disconnected state; a discharge process following the disconnection process, wherein the controller controls the head to discharge liquid; and a connection process, wherein following the disconnection process and in response to a predetermined connection condition being met, the controller controls the switching component to switch the state of the atmospheric communication path from a disconnected state to a connected state.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a liquid discharging apparatus that is capable of a discharging operation to discharge a liquid at a sheet. BACKGROUND

[0002] A liquid discharging apparatus that can discharge a liquid at a sheet is known. A liquid to be discharged can be supplied from a reservoir portion through a liquid supply path and discharged at a sheet from a nozzle of a head. In the reservoir portion, in order to maintain a negative pressure in the reservoir portion within a preferable range, a valve unit can be arranged. In the valve unit, when the negative pressure is within the preferable range, a valve piece can be tightly fitted to a valve seat. On the other hand, as the liquid is consumed, the negative pressure can increase beyond the preferable range, and the valve piece can deform inwardly into an inner space in the reservoir portion and separate from the valve seat. Thus, the valve can open, and air can be sucked into the inner space. In a case where air is sucked into the inner space, the negative pressure in the reservoir portion can decrease to the preferable range, and the valve can close again. Such a liquid discharging apparatus is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Provisional Publication Laid-Open No. 2017-94658. SUMMARY

[0003] The known liquid discharging apparatus uses a valve piece that can be deformed by a negative pressure in a reservoir portion. Thus, in order to provide a valve piece that can function effectively, the form of the valve piece can become complicated, and / or the valve piece can need to be carefully seated in the reservoir portion; otherwise, it can be difficult to reliably suck air into the reservoir portion when needed and stably supply a liquid to a head.

[0004] An advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a liquid discharging apparatus in which air can be reliably sucked into a reservoir portion when needed.

[0005] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a liquid discharging apparatus having a head, a reservoir portion, a liquid flow path, a switching assembly, and a controller. The head is configured to discharge a liquid. The reservoir portion has a liquid reservoir chamber configured to store the liquid, and an atmosphere communication path connecting the liquid reservoir chamber with the outside. The liquid flow path connects the head with the liquid reservoir chamber for the liquid to flow in the liquid flow path. The switching assembly is configured to switch a state of the atmosphere communication path between a connected state in which the atmosphere communication path connects the liquid reservoir chamber with the outside, and a disconnected state in which the atmosphere communication path disconnects the liquid reservoir chamber from the outside. The controller is configured to execute a disconnection process in which the controller controls the switching assembly to switch the state of the atmosphere communication path from the connected state to the disconnected state, execute a discharge process in which the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid after the disconnection process, and execute a connection process in which the controller controls the switching assembly to switch the state of the atmosphere communication path from the disconnected state to the connected state after the disconnection process and in response to a predetermined connection condition being satisfied.

[0006] Optionally, the connection condition can be that an amount of an element that causes a change in an air pressure in the reservoir portion reaches a threshold value.

[0007] Optionally, the amount of the element can be at least one of a temperature, a humidity, an intensity of an air pressure, an amount of change in the temperature, an amount of change in the humidity, and an amount of change in the air pressure in the reservoir portion.

[0008] Optionally, the amount of the element can be an amount of the liquid in the liquid reservoir chamber.

[0009] Optionally, the controller can be configured to execute an estimation process in which the controller estimates an amount of the liquid to be discharged in the discharge process, and the amount of the element can be the amount of the liquid estimated in the estimation process.

[0010] Optionally, the amount of the element can be a length of an elapsed time.

[0011] Optionally, the liquid discharging apparatus can further have a rotating body configured to convey at least one sheet in a conveyance orientation. The controller can be configured to execute a counting process in which the controller counts a number of the at least one sheet conveyed by the rotating body, and the amount of the element can be the number of the at least one sheet.

[0012] Optionally, the connection condition can be that the number of the at least one sheet becomes equal to or greater than a sheet number threshold, and the sheet number threshold can be 1.

[0013] Optionally, the liquid discharging apparatus can further have a rotating body configured to convey a sheet in a conveyance orientation, and a carriage on which the head is mounted. The carriage can be configured to move in a scan direction that intersects the conveyance orientation. The controller can be configured to execute an intermittent conveyance process in which the controller controls the rotating body to intermittently convey the sheet and stop conveying the sheet. In the discharging process, the controller can control the carriage to convey the head once through in the scan direction, and the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid at the sheet while the rotating body stops conveying the sheet. The controller can be configured to execute an updating process in which the controller updates a number of times of the intermittent conveyance of the sheet by the rotating body each time the head is conveyed once through. The quantity of the element can be the number of times of the intermittent conveyance.

[0014] Optionally, the connection condition can be that the number of the intermittent conveyance becomes equal to or greater than a conveyance number threshold, and the conveyance number threshold can be 1.

[0015] Optionally, the liquid discharging apparatus can further have a rotating body configured to convey a sheet in a conveyance orientation, and a rotary encoder configured to output a pulse signal according to an amount of rotation of the rotating body. The head can be configured to discharge the liquid at the sheet conveyed by the rotating body. The controller can be configured to execute a counting process in which the controller counts a number of pulses included in the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder, and the quantity of the element can be the number of pulses.

[0016] Optionally, the liquid discharging apparatus can further have a rotary body, a carriage on which the head is mounted, and a linear encoder. The rotary body can be configured to convey the sheet in a conveyance orientation. The carriage can be configured to move in a scan direction that intersects the conveyance orientation. The linear encoder can be configured to output a pulse signal according to an amount of movement of the carriage. The controller can be configured to execute an intermittent conveyance process in which the controller controls the rotary body to intermittently convey the sheet and stop conveying the sheet. In the discharging process, the controller can control the carriage to convey the head once in the scan direction and control the head to discharge the liquid at the sheet. The controller can be configured to execute a counting process during the discharging process in which the controller counts a number of pulses included in the pulse signal output from the linear encoder. The amount of the element can be the number of pulses.

[0017] Optionally, the liquid discharging apparatus can further have a tray configured to store a sheet, a feeder configured to feed the sheet from the tray, and a rotary body configured to convey the sheet fed by the feeder in a conveyance orientation. The controller can be configured to execute a feeding process in which the controller controls the feeder to feed the sheet from the tray, a conveying process in which the controller controls the rotary body to convey the sheet, and a counting process in which the controller counts a number of times at least one process selected from the feeding process, the conveying process, and the discharging process is executed. The amount of the element can be the number of times the at least one process is executed.

[0018] Optionally, the controller can be configured to execute a receiving process in which the controller receives a job. In the discharging process, the controller can control the head to discharge the liquid based on the job received in the receiving process. The controller can execute the connection process in response to the connection condition being satisfied and the job being completed.

[0019] Optionally, the controller can be configured to perform a receiving process in which the controller receives a job at least once, the job being a processing target for the discharging process. To process the processing target in the discharging process, the controller can be configured to control the head to discharge the liquid based on the job, the job including a plurality of jobs received in a plurality of times of the receiving process. The connection condition can be that a number of the jobs processed in the discharging process becomes equal to or greater than a job number threshold. The job number threshold can be 1.

[0020] Optionally, the controller can be configured to perform the discharging process in which the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid at a first sheet and a second sheet successively. The controller can be configured to, in response to the connection condition being satisfied and a portion of the discharging process in which the liquid is discharged at the first sheet ending, perform the connection process before starting another portion of the discharging process in which the liquid is discharged at the second sheet.

[0021] Optionally, the controller can be configured to: perform the discharging process in which the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid at a sheet; and in response to the connection condition being satisfied and while the head faces the sheet, perform the connection process.

[0022] Optionally, the liquid discharging apparatus can further have a rotating body configured to convey a sheet in a conveyance orientation. The controller can be configured to: perform the discharging process in which the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid at a sheet; after the discharging process, perform an evacuation process in which the controller controls the rotating body to convey the sheet in the conveyance orientation to a region in which the sheet does not face the head; and in response to the connection condition being satisfied and the discharging process ending, perform the connection process.

[0023] Optionally, the liquid discharging apparatus can further have: a rotating body configured to convey a sheet in a conveyance orientation; and a carriage on which the head is mounted. The carriage can be configured to move in a scan direction, the scan direction intersecting the conveyance orientation. The controller can be configured to: in response to the connection condition being satisfied, perform a retreat process in which the controller controls the carriage to move the head in a scan direction to retreat to a region in which the head does not face the sheet, the scan direction intersecting the conveyance orientation; and in response to the head being retreated to the region in the retreat process, perform the connection process.

[0024] Optionally, the head can have a nozzle through which the liquid is discharged. The atmospheric communication path can connect an inside of the liquid reservoir chamber with an outside through an air portion. A volume Vb of the air portion can be set to satisfy formulas (1) and (2): Vb = (Po + ΔP) * ΔV / ΔP … (1); and ΔP <= Pm … (2). Po can represent one atmosphere. ΔV can represent a change in the volume of the air portion due to a change in the volume of the liquid as a result of discharging a predetermined amount of the liquid in a discharge process under specified conditions to record a specified image on a sheet. ΔP can represent a change in the pressure of the air portion according to the change in the volume of the liquid in the discharge process. Pm can represent a predetermined pressure resistance of a meniscus formed by the liquid in the nozzle. The connection condition can be that the amount of the change in the pressure of the air portion due to the discharge process reaches ΔP.

[0025] Optionally, the specified image can be a pattern image defined by the International Organization for Standardization, and the specified condition can be to record the pattern image continuously for a specified length of time.

[0026] Optionally, the liquid reservoir chamber can include a plurality of liquid reservoir chambers, each of the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers containing a liquid of a different color. The atmospheric communication path can be a common atmospheric communication path connecting the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers with an outside.

[0027] Optionally, the liquid reservoir chamber can include a plurality of liquid reservoir chambers, each of the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers containing a liquid of a different color. The atmospheric communication path can include a plurality of individual atmospheric communication paths, each of the plurality of individual atmospheric communication paths connecting one of the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers with an outside. The switching assembly can be configured to collectively switch states of the plurality of individual atmospheric communication paths between a connected state in which the individual atmospheric communication paths connect the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers with the outside and a disconnected state in which the plurality of individual atmospheric communication paths disconnect the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers from the outside. The controller can be configured to perform the connection process in response to at least one of the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers satisfying a predetermined connection condition.

[0028] Optionally, the threshold value can be one of a variable value and a fixed value.

[0029] Optionally, the amount of the element can be an amount of a change in the element over a specified period of time, the specified period of time can be one of a variable period of time and a fixed period of time.

[0030] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0031] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 is an external perspective view of a printer 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an internal structure of the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 is a top plan view according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, showing regions in the internal structure, including a reservoir portion 220 and adjacent structures.

[0034] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 is an explanatory view of the reservoir portion 220 and the adjacent structures from a front side when a head 200 is located at a capping position P21 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the reservoir portion 220 and the adjacent structures, taken at the dotted line V-V indicated in Figure 3 and viewed from a front side when the head 200 is separated from the capping position P21 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] [ Figure 6A ] Figure 6A is a left side view explanatory view of a liquid amount sensor 216 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] [ Figure 6B ] Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the reservoir portion 220 with the liquid amount sensor 216, taken at the dotted line VI-VI indicated in Figure 6A according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating functional blocks in a printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 is an explanatory view of a valve unit 240 in the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, in which a valve body 242 opens an atmospheric communication path 221K.

[0040] [ Figure 9A ] Figure 9Ais a part of a flowchart that illustrates steps in an image recording process to be performed in the printer 100 according to this embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] [ Figure 9B ] Figure 9B is another part of the flowchart that illustrates steps in the image recording process to be performed in the printer 100 according to this embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] [ Figure 10A ] Figure 10A is an explanatory diagram of the reservoir portion 220 in one variant from the front side according to this embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] [ Figure 10B ] Figure 10B is a right side explanatory diagram of the reservoir portion 220 in this variant according to this embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] [ Figure 11A ] Figure 11A is an explanatory diagram of the reservoir portion 220 in another variant according to this embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] [ Figure 11B ] Figure 11B is an explanatory diagram according to this embodiment of the present disclosure showing how to determine the volume Vb of the air portion in the reservoir portion 220.

[0046] [ Figure 12A ] Figure 12A illustrates one variant of the opener member 250 that opens the atmospheric communication path 221K according to this embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] [ Figure 12B ] Figure 12B illustrates this variant of the opener member 250 that closes the atmospheric communication path 221K according to this embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] [ Figure 13A ] Figure 13A illustrates one variant of the cap 260 and the lifting assembly at the capped position P31 according to this embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] [ Figure 13B ] Figure 13B illustrates this variant of the cap 260 and the lifting assembly at the uncapped position P32 according to this embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] In the following paragraphs, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that various connections may be depicted between elements in the following description. These connections are generally, and unless otherwise specified, can be direct or indirect, and this specification is not intended to limit in this respect. In the following description, for example, the duration of a state reaching a threshold may be interpreted as an example of satisfying a connection condition. However, connection conditions can be satisfied by different matters or events, some of which will be further described below.

[0051] In the following description, the directionality indicated by the pointing arrow from the base of the handle toward the pointing head will be expressed by the term "orientation," while the back-and-forth mobility along the line extending through the handle and pointing head of the arrow will be expressed by the term "direction."

[0052] Furthermore, based on the posture of printer 100 under normal operating conditions, such as... Figure 1 The bidirectional arrows indicate the positional relationships within printer 100 and each part or article included in printer 100. For example, in Figure 1 The vertical axis between the upper and lower sides of the printer 100 is defined as the vertical direction 7. The side forming the opening 330 is defined as the front 320, and the axis between the front side and the rear side opposite to the front side is defined as the front-back direction 8. The right and left sides of the user facing the front 320 of the printer 100 are defined as the right side and left side, respectively. The axis between the right side and the left side is defined as the left-right direction 9. The vertical direction 7, the front-back direction 8, and the left-right direction 9 intersect each other orthogonally. In the following description, the vertical direction 7 and the left-right direction 9 may be referred to as the vertical direction 7 and the width direction 9, respectively.

[0053] Overall structure of printer 100

[0054] As in Figure 1 The printer 100 shown as an example of a liquid discharge device can use an inkjet recording method on sheet M (see...) Figure 2 A monochrome image is recorded on the sheet M in a single color, such as black. The sheet M can be, for example, paper or an OHP film. However, it can be noted that the method of recording images on the sheet M is not limited to inkjet recording, but can take the form of different recording methods such as, for example, thermal inkjet recording, also known as bubblejet (registered trademark) recording.

[0055] Internal structure of printer 100

[0056] As in Figure 2The printer 100 shown has a feeder tray 110, an exhaust tray 120, a feeder 130, an outer guide 140, an inner guide 150, a conveyor roller pair 160, an exhaust roller pair 170, a pressure plate 180, a carriage 190, a head 200, and a conveyor 210 (see...) housed in a housing 300. Figure 3 ), storage unit 220, cover 230, valve unit 240 (see Figure 5 ), Opener component 250 (see Figure 5 ), hat 260 (see Figure 5 ) and controller 270 (see Figure 7 ).

[0057] Casing 300

[0058] As in Figure 1 The housing 300 shown may have a generally rectangular cuboid shape. The housing 300 may be supported by a frame (not shown) arranged inside. A forward-opening opening 330 is formed on the front 320.

[0059] Feeder tray 110

[0060] The feeder tray 110 can be installed in the housing 300 through the opening 330. For example, in Figure 2 As shown, one or more sheets M can be stacked vertically 7 on the bottom 111 of the feeder tray 110. The guide member 112 extends rearward and upward from the rear end of the bottom 111 to a position close to the lower end of the outer guide 140.

[0061] Discharge tray 120

[0062] Within the housing 300, a sheet outlet 370 is formed above the feeder tray 110. Through this sheet outlet 370, a sheet M containing an image recorded in the printer 100 can be discharged. The sheet M containing the image can be referred to as the printed material M. An discharge tray 120 is positioned forward and below the sheet outlet 370. The discharge tray 120 can support the printed material M.

[0063] Feeder 130

[0064] As in Figure 2 The feeder 130 shown includes a shaft 131, a feeder arm 132, a feeder roller 133, and a drive force transmission assembly 134.

[0065] Shaft 131 is supported by a frame (not shown) and extends in the width direction 9 at a position above the bottom 111. Feeder arm 132 is supported by shaft 131 at its base end. Feeder arm 132 is pivotable in the circumferential direction 3B of shaft 131. Feeder arm 132 extends rearward and downward from this base end. Feeder roller 133 is attached to the end portion of feeder arm 132. Feeder roller 133 is rotatable in the circumferential direction 3C of shaft 135 parallel to shaft 131. Drive force transmission assembly 134 may include a gear train and a drive belt and may be arranged inside feeder arm 132.

[0066] The overall behavior of feeder 130 is described here. Feeder roller 133 can contact the topmost sheet M of sheets M stacked on the bottom 111 of feeder tray 110. Drive force transmission assembly 134 can transmit the feeder motor 271 (see [link to relevant documentation]) for feeding the sheet M. Figure 8 The force generated is transmitted to the feeder roller 133. The feeder roller 133 can be rotated by the transmitted force and apply a backward conveying force to the uppermost sheet M. Thus, the uppermost sheet M can be conveyed backward on the bottom 111 and guided by the inclined surface of the guide member 112 through the sheet inlet P0 to the conveyor path P.

[0067] Transmitter path P

[0068] As in Figure 2 As shown, inside the housing 300, a conveyor path P for conveying the sheet M is formed. The sheet inlet P0 forms the upstream end of the conveyor path P and is positioned above the extension of the guide member 112. The conveyor path P is a so-called U-shaped turning path and includes a curved path P1 and a straight path P2. The curved path P1 curves substantially forward and upward from the sheet inlet P0. The straight path P2 extends substantially straight forward from the downstream end of the curved path P1 to the sheet outlet 370.

[0069] External guide 140, internal guide 150

[0070] The outer guide 140 and the inner guide 150 define the outermost and innermost parts of the bending path P1, respectively.

[0071] The conveying of sheet M is described here. Sheet M fed to sheet inlet P0 can be guided by outer guide 140 and inner guide 150 to be conveyed along outer guide 140 and inner guide 150. Thereafter, sheet M can be transferred to conveyor roller pair 160.

[0072] Registration sensor 151

[0073] A registration sensor 151 is arranged on the inner guide 150 at a registration position near the downstream end of the curved path P1. The registration sensor 151 is supported by the inner guide 150 and extends inside the curved path P1. The registration sensor 151 can pivot in a transport orientation 4 and a reverse orientation, which is the orientation of the sheet M transported in the curved path P1. The sheet M transported in the curved path P1 can contact the registration sensor 151. Depending on whether the sheet M contacts or does not contact the registration sensor 151, the registration sensor 151 can be controlled by the controller 270 (see...). Figure 7 It outputs signals of different levels. These signals of different levels from the registration sensor 151 can be referred to as registration signals V13 below.

[0074] 160 conveyor roller pairs

[0075] The conveyor roller pair 160 includes a drive roller 161 and a pinch roller 162, which are examples of rotatable components. The drive roller 161 and the pinch roller 162 are arranged such that they contact each other in the vertical direction 7 across the downstream ends of the curved path P1, and extend in the width direction 9 along the downstream ends of the curved path P1. In this embodiment, the drive roller 161 contacts the pinch roller 162 from above. However, alternatively, the drive roller 161 may contact the pinch roller 162 from below.

[0076] Drive roller 161 can be driven by conveyor motor 272 (see conveyor motor 272 for conveying sheet M) Figure 7 The force generated by the rotation is used to rotate the sheet M. The pinch roller 162 can be rotated by the rotation of the drive roller 161. The drive roller 161 and the pinch roller 162 can clamp and rotate the sheet M to convey it, for example, forward in the conveying orientation 4. Thus, the sheet M can be conveyed downstream in the straight path P2.

[0077] Discharge roller pair 170

[0078] As in Figure 2 As shown, the discharge roller pair 170 includes a drive roller 171 and a toothed roller 172. The drive roller 171 and the toothed roller 172 are located in the straight path P2 between the pressure plate 180 and the sheet outlet 370, and are positioned to contact each other in the vertical direction 7 across the straight path P2 and extend along the straight path P2 in the width direction 9. In this embodiment, the toothed roller 172 contacts the drive roller 171 from above. However, alternatively, the toothed roller 172 may contact the drive roller 171 from below.

[0079] The drive roller 171 can be rotated by the force generated by the conveyor motor 272. The toothed roller 172 can be rotated by the rotation of the drive roller 171. The drive roller 171 and the toothed roller 172 can clamp and rotate the sheet M to further convey the sheet M downstream in the conveying orientation 4. Thus, the sheet M can be discharged to the outside through the sheet outlet 370.

[0080] 180 pressure plate

[0081] The pressure plate 180 is located between the conveyor roller pair 160 and the discharge roller pair 170 in the longitudinal direction 8. The pressure plate 180 has a support surface 181 extending in both the longitudinal direction 8 and the width direction 9. This support surface 181 defines the lowermost part of the straight path P2 and can support the sheet M conveyed by the conveyor roller pair 160 from below. The support surface 181 may be formed by the upper end faces of a plurality of ribs that project upward from the pressure plate 180 and extend longitudinally in the longitudinal direction 8. Alternatively, the support surface 181 may be a flat upper surface of the pressure plate 180. The pressure plate 180 may be colored, for example, black or a color that can absorb light emitted from the sheet sensor 205.

[0082] Carriage 190

[0083] As in Figure 2-3 The printer 100 shown further includes guide rails 191A and 191B arranged inside the housing 300. (As in...) Figure 2 As shown, guide rails 191A and 191B are positioned at a higher position relative to the support surface 181 and are supported by a frame (not shown). In the top view, as in... Figure 3 As shown, guide rails 191A and 191B are arranged to be spaced apart in the front-rear direction 8 to be located on both sides of the support surface 181 and extend longitudinally in the width direction 9. In other words, the support surface 181 of the pressure plate 180 is located between guide rails 191A and 191B in the front-rear direction 8.

[0084] As in Figure 3 The carriage 190 shown has a width smaller than that of the pressure plate 180 and is arranged across guide rails 191A and 191B in the front-rear direction 8. The carriage 190 can move on guide rails 191A and 191B by a force transmitted through the transmitter 210, so as to reciprocate in the width direction 9. In the following paragraphs, the direction in which the carriage 190 can move may be referred to as the scanning direction 9.

[0085] First 200

[0086] As in Figure 2The head 200 shown has: a lower part 201; a upper part 202; a plurality of nozzles 203; and an ink flow path 204 as an example of a liquid flow path. The plurality of nozzles 203 are arranged on the lower part 201 along a front-to-back direction 8 and a width direction 9. Figure 2 Of the plurality of nozzles 203, only those arranged along the front-to-back direction 8 are shown. Each nozzle 203 has a downward discharge opening. The head 200 is mounted on a carriage 190 such that the lower part 201 of the head 200 can move along the scanning direction 9 in a position separated from the support surface 181 above the carriage 190. In this respect, the lower part 201 defines the uppermost part of the straight path P2.

[0087] The head 200 houses piezoelectric devices (not shown) corresponding to the nozzle 203 on a one-to-one basis. A drive waveform modulated by the controller 270 can be applied to these piezoelectric devices in the head 200, thereby allowing the head 200 to discharge ink through the nozzle 203 downwards in the discharge orientation 7D and consume the ink stored in the head 200.

[0088] Transmitter 210 (part of the switching component)

[0089] As in Figure 3 The transmitter 210 shown includes two (2) pulleys 211 and an endless belt 212. The transmitter 210 forms part of a switching assembly and can switch the state of the valve body 242, which will be further described below, between an open state and a closed state. The pulleys 211 are separated from each other in the width direction 9 on the guide rail 191A. Each pulley 211 can rotate in the circumferential direction along its axis extending in the vertical direction 7. The endless belt 212 is taut around the pulleys 211 and is connected to the carriage 190. One pulley 211, for example the right pulley 211, is connected to the carriage motor 273 (see below) for driving the carriage 190. Figure 7 The carriage motor 273 can operate and generate driving force under the control of the controller 270. The right pulley 211 can be driven by the driving force from the carriage motor 273 to rotate in the forward or reverse direction. Therefore, the head 200 connected to the endless belt 212 can reciprocate in the width direction 9 between a pre-set capping position P21 and a rinsing position P22 between these pulleys 211. The capping position P21 can be located to the right from the pressure plate 180 and from the frame 301 (see...). Figure 5 The cap 260, separated to the left, is located at substantially the same position in the width direction 9. The flushing position P22 is separated to the left from the pressure plate 180. The ink receiver 194 is arranged at the flushing position P22.

[0090] While the carriage 190 moves left or right in a swath or pass under the control of the controller 270, the head 200 can emit ink within the range R11, which will be further described below (see...). Figure 8 The head 200 and the reservoir chamber 220B are connected via ink flow paths 204, which allow liquid to flow therein. While moving in the width direction 9, the head 200 can discharge ink supplied from the reservoir section 220 through the ink flow paths 204. In other words, a single line of image can be recorded on the sheet M.

[0091] Linear encoder 193

[0092] As in Figure 3 As shown, a linear encoder 193 is arranged on a guide rail 191A and a carriage 190. The linear encoder 193 includes an encoder strip 193A and an optical sensor 193B. The encoder strip 193A is arranged on the guide rail 191A and is positioned between the endless strip 212 and the pressure plate 180 in the front-to-back direction 8. The encoder strip 193A extends in the width direction 9 between a capping position P21 and a rinsing position P22. The encoder strip 193A has a pattern in which light-transmitting portions and light-blocking portions are alternately arranged at equal intervals along the width direction 9. The optical sensor 193B has a light emitting device and a light receiving device arranged facing each other across the encoder strip 193A. The light emitting device can emit light at the encoder strip 193A while the carriage 190 is being moved. The light receiving device can receive light from the light emitting device and output signals of different levels to the controller 270 depending on the amount of light received. These signals of different levels from the linear encoder 193 can be referred to below as pulse signal V15 (see below). Figure 7 Based on these pulse signals V15, the controller 270 can determine the position of the head 200 in the width direction 9.

[0093] Sheet Sensor 205

[0094] On 201 below the first 200, as in Figure 2As shown, a sheet sensor 205 is arranged. This sheet sensor 205, serving as an optical sensor, is positioned on a straight path P2 near the front end of the lower part 201, facing the support surface 181 of the pressure plate 180. The sheet sensor 205 has a light emitting device and a light receiving device. The light emitting device can emit a predetermined amount of light downwards at the support surface 181 while the head 200 is being moved. The light receiving device can output signals of different levels to the controller 270 depending on the amount of light received. The different level signals from the sheet sensor 205 can be referred to hereinafter as sheet signal V16 (see...). Figure 7 In this embodiment, when light is emitted from the light emitting device of the sheet sensor 205 onto the sheet M on the pressure plate 180, the light can be reflected on the sheet M, and a portion of the reflected light can enter the light receiving device. On the other hand, when light is emitted from the light emitting device of the sheet sensor 205 onto the pressure plate 180, the light can be absorbed in the pressure plate 180. Therefore, the sheet signal V16 can indicate whether the sheet M is present or absent on the support surface 181 at a position directly below the sheet sensor 205. In the following paragraphs, the position directly below the sheet sensor 205 may be referred to as the cueing position.

[0095] Storage unit 220, cover 230

[0096] As in Figure 4-5 As shown, the reservoir portion 220, which serves as an ink cartridge, is attached to the upper surface 202 of the head 200, making it difficult to detach from the head 200. In other words, the printer 100 in this embodiment can be a so-called carriage-integrated printer, wherein the reservoir portion 220 and the head 200 are mounted on a carriage 190. The reservoir portion 220 may be located entirely above the head 200. However, alternatively, the reservoir portion 220 may be at least partially located above the upper surface 202 of the head 200, and another portion of the reservoir portion 220 may be located below the upper surface 202 of the head 200.

[0097] The storage unit 220 can store ink, for example, as a liquid. The ink color can be, for example, black. The ink in the storage unit 220 can be supplied to the head 200 through the outlet port 221L and the ink flow path 204. Figure 4 As shown, the storage unit 220 has an outer wall 221, an upper index 223U, and a lower index 223L. Furthermore, as in... Figure 5 As shown, the storage section 220 has a dividing wall 222 and a cylindrical wall 224.

[0098] As in Figure 5As shown, the outer wall 221 defines the internal space 220A of the storage section 220 from the external environment. The storage section 220 can be made primarily of a light-transmitting material, such as transparent resin. Therefore, the user can visually identify the amount of ink stored in the storage section 220.

[0099] The outer wall 221 includes a bottom wall 221A, a first left side wall 221B, a right side wall 221C, a first upper wall 221D, a second upper wall 221E, a second left side wall 221F, and a front wall 221G (see...). Figure 4 ) and posterior wall 221H (see Figure 5 The bottom wall 221A, the first upper wall 221D, and the second upper wall 221E are generally rectangular in the plan view along the vertical direction 7. The first left side wall 221B, the second left side wall 221F, and the right side wall 221C are generally rectangular in the view along the width direction 9.

[0100] The bottom wall 221A extends on the top 202 of the head 200. The front and rear edges of the bottom wall 221A are substantially parallel to the front-rear direction 8, and the left and right edges of the bottom wall 221A are substantially parallel to the width direction 9.

[0101] The first left side wall 221B and the right side wall 221C extend upward from the left edge and the right edge of the bottom wall 221A, respectively. The upper end of the extension of the first left side wall 221B is positioned lower than the extension of the right side wall 221C.

[0102] The first upper wall 221D extends between the upper end of the first left side wall 221B and the midpoint between the first left side wall 221B and the right side wall 221C. The second upper wall 221E extends between the upper end of the right side wall 221C and the position where the first upper wall 221D separates from its extended end or to the right.

[0103] As in Figure 5 As shown, in the first upper wall 221D, a through hole 221J is formed through the first upper wall 221D in the vertical direction 7, through which ink can be injected into the storage section 220.

[0104] As in Figure 4-5 As shown, the second left side wall 221F extends between the right edge of the first upper wall 221D and the left edge of the second upper wall 221E.

[0105] Anterior wall 221G (see) Figure 4 ) and rear wall 221H ( Figure 5 The front and back ends of the storage unit 220 are shut down respectively.

[0106] As in Figure 5As shown, the dividing wall 222, together with the outer wall 221, defines the internal space 220A as an ink storage chamber 220B, an air chamber 220C, and a valve placement space 220D, which are examples of liquid storage chambers.

[0107] The dividing wall 222 extends downward from the second upper wall 221E at the position where it separates from the right side wall 221C to the left, and extends in the vertical direction 7 and the front-back direction 8. The dividing wall 222 extends to a position lower than the lower end of the atmospheric connection path 221K.

[0108] The ink storage chamber 220B is a space surrounded by a bottom wall 221A, a first left side wall 221B, a right side wall 221C, a first upper wall 221D, a front wall 221G, and a rear wall 221H. The ink storage chamber 220B can store ink.

[0109] Air chamber 220C is a space surrounded by right side wall 221C, second upper wall 221E, second left side wall 221F, front wall 221G, and rear wall 221H. Air chamber 220C is located above the upper index 223U. Air can be drawn into air chamber 220C. Optionally, air chamber 220C can be a so-called labyrinthine flow path defined by other dividing walls.

[0110] The valve placement space 220D is a space defined by the second upper wall 221E, the right side wall 221C, and the dividing wall 222, and accommodates the valve unit 240. The lower side of the valve placement space 220D opens downwards. Therefore, the atmospheric communication path 221K is connected to the air chamber 220C through the valve placement space 220D.

[0111] As in Figure 4 As shown, the upper indicator 223U is arranged on the outer surface of the front wall 221G and is positioned near the upper edge of the first front wall 221G, and the upper indicator 223U has a linear form extending in the width direction 9. The upper indicator 223U is an example of a symbol indicating the surface liquid level of the maximum amount of ink that can be stored in the ink reservoir chamber 220B.

[0112] The lower indicator 223L is disposed on the outer surface of the front wall 221G and is located near the lower edge of the front wall 221G, and the lower indicator 223L has a linear form extending in the width direction 9. The lower indicator 223L is an example of a symbol indicating the surface level of ink that should be refilled with ink in the ink reservoir chamber 220B.

[0113] The upper indicator 223U and the lower indicator 223L can be marked by engraving, embossing, or applying coloring agents.

[0114] As in Figure 5As shown, a cylindrical wall 224 extends upward and downward cylindrically from the circumferential edge of the through-hole 221J in the first upper wall 221D. The cylindrical wall 224 has an injection port 224A at its upper end. In other words, the upper end of the cylindrical wall 224 forms the injection port 224A. The injection port 224A is an opening that opens upward or outward from the reservoir portion 220. The inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical wall 224 defines an ink supply path 224B that extends from the injection port 224A through the through-hole 221J to the ink reservoir chamber 220B. In other words, the injection port 224A is continuous with the ink reservoir chamber 220B.

[0115] Figure 4 to Figure 5 The cap 230 shown can be formed of, for example, flexible resin. The cap 230 can be attached to the upper end of the cylindrical wall 224 by a user and can be detached from the upper end of the cylindrical wall 224 to close and open the injection port 224A. The cap 230 can deform when attached to or detached from the cylindrical wall 224 by a user.

[0116] An atmospheric communication path 221K is formed in the right side wall 221C at a position consistent with the dividing wall 222 in the width direction 9. This atmospheric communication path 221K is a through-hole formed through the right side wall 221C in the width direction 9. The atmospheric communication path 221K connects the interior of the ink reservoir chamber 220B and the exterior of the reservoir section 220 via the air chamber 220C and the valve placement space 222D. The atmospheric communication path 221K is formed above the injection port 224A.

[0117] The outlet port 221L is a through-hole formed vertically through the bottom wall 221A and is continuous with the ink flow path 204. The air chamber 220C is at least partially located above the outlet port 221L. In other words, the air chamber 220C can be positioned completely higher than the outlet port 221L, or at least a portion of the air chamber 220C can be positioned higher than the outlet port 221L.

[0118] Liquid volume sensor 216

[0119] As in Figure 6A to Figure 6B As shown, the storage portion 220 includes a protruding portion 221M projecting rearward from the rear wall 221H. This protruding portion 221M is formed of, for example, a light-transmitting resin and has a generally rectangular cuboid shape. (As shown in...) Figure 6A As shown, the protruding portion 221M extends vertically in the direction 7 from a position below the lower index 223L to a position above the lower index 223L. (As shown in...) Figure 6B As shown, the protrusion 221M has a form that tapers in the width direction 9. The protrusion 221M defines a space that is continuous with the ink reservoir chamber 220B.

[0120] Printer 100 has a liquid volume sensor 216 as an optical sensor. A light emitting device in the liquid volume sensor 216, located on the right side of the protrusion 221M, emits light in a direction substantially parallel to the width direction 9, at a position substantially equal to the lower index 223L in the vertical direction 7. A light receiving device in the liquid volume sensor 216 is located on the left side of the protrusion 221M, facing the light emitting device across the protrusion 221M, and this light receiving device in the liquid volume sensor 216 can output signals of different levels to the controller 270 depending on the amount of light received. These signals of different levels from the liquid volume sensor 216 can be referred to hereinafter as liquid volume signal V12 (see...). Figure 7 Specifically, the level of the liquid volume signal V12 is different when the optical receiver receives light transmitted through the protrusion 221M and when the optical receiver does not receive light transmitted through the protrusion 221M.

[0121] Valve unit 240, actuator component 250 (part of the switching assembly)

[0122] As in Figure 5 As shown, valve unit 240 has spring 241 and valve body 242.

[0123] Spring 241 may be a compression helical spring, the natural length of which is substantially equal to or greater than the distance in the width direction 9 between the right side wall 221C and the dividing wall 222. Spring 241 is housed in valve placement space 220D, its axis aligned parallel to the width direction 9. The left end of spring 241 is fixed to dividing wall 222. Valve body 242 is fixed to the right end of spring 241.

[0124] The valve body 242 is positioned above the injection port 224A. When the opening component 250 is not in contact with the valve body 242, and with the inner surface of the right side wall 221C acting as a valve seat, the valve body 242 can close the atmospheric communication path 221K by the pushing force of the spring 241. Thus, the atmospheric communication path 221K is placed in the open state, and in this open state, the ink reservoir chamber 220B and the exterior of the reservoir section 220 are disconnected.

[0125] As in Figure 4-5 As shown, frame 301 is arranged inside housing 300. Frame 301 extends vertically in the direction 7 at a position to the right of cap 260, and frame 301 faces right side wall 221C in the width direction 9. Opener component 250 protrudes to the left from a position on frame 301 that coincides with atmospheric communication path 221K in the width direction 9 (see...). Figure 5The cross-sectional area of ​​the opener component 250 along the vertical direction 7 and the front-rear direction 8 is smaller than the opening of the atmospheric communication path 221K over the entire width direction 9. The length of the opener component 250 in the width direction 9 is greater than the distance between the valve body 242 and the frame 301 when the head 200 is in the capped position P21. When the carriage 190 moves in the width direction 9, and shortly before the head 200 on the carriage 190 reaches the capped position P21, the protruding end of the opener component 250 can enter the atmospheric communication path 221K and contact the valve body 242. While the head 200 is in the capped position P21, the contact force from the opener component 250 causes the valve body 242 to overcome the pushing force of the spring 241 and separate from the right side wall 221C. Therefore, the valve body 242 can open the atmospheric communication path 221K. In other words, the opener component 250 can switch the valve body 242 from the closed state to the open state. Therefore, the valve body 242 can switchably open and close the atmospheric communication path 221K. Accordingly, the atmospheric communication path 221K can be placed in a connected state, in which the ink storage chamber 220B and the outside of the storage section 220 are connected and communicated.

[0126] The initiator component 250 forms another part of the switching assembly.

[0127] Hat 260

[0128] As in Figure 4 to Figure 5 As shown, the cap 260 is located at approximately the same position as the head 200 in the front-rear direction 8, and has a generally rectangular box shape in the top view. The upper end of the cap 260 opens upwards. The cap 260 may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber.

[0129] The cap 260 is supported by a frame 302 that extends in the front-to-back direction 8 and the width direction 9 via a lifting assembly 261. This lifting assembly 261 can be supported by a lifting motor 274 (see...). Figure 7 The driving force generated under the control of controller 270 moves the cap 260 vertically between the capping position P31 and the decapping position P32. The capping position P31 is the position where the upper end of the cap 260 contacts the lower surface 201 of the head 200 located at the capping position P21. In other words, the capping position P21 coincides with the capping position P31 in the width direction 9. At the capping position P31, the cap 260 can cover the nozzle 203 formed in the lower surface 201 of the head 200. The decapping position P32 is lower than the capping position P31 and is the position where the upper end of the cap 260 separates from the lower surface 201 of the head 200.

[0130] At the bottom of cap 260, 262 (see...) Figure 5 Multiple through holes 263 are formed on the surface, but in Figure 5Only one of the plurality of through holes 263 is shown. A tube 264 is connected at one end to each through hole 263, such that the through hole 263 and the tube 264 are in fluid communication. The other end of the tube 264 is connected to a pump (not shown). The pump can be started by a controller 270 when the cap 260 is in the capped position P31. Accordingly, any remaining obstructions and ink in the head 200 can be evacuated and collected on the cap 260. The obstructions collected on the cap 260 can be transported through the tube 264 to a waste container (not shown).

[0131] Controller 270

[0132] As in Figure 7 As shown, the controller 270 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, EEPROM, and ASIC interconnected via an internal bus. The ROM can store programs to control operations within the printer 100. The CPU can run programs using the RAM and EEPROM.

[0133] The ASIC is electrically connected to motors 271-274. The ASIC can generate and output control signals V21, V22, V23, and V24 to rotate the feeder motor 271, conveyor motor 272, carriage motor 273, and lifting motor 274, respectively. The ASIC is electrically connected to the liquid volume sensor 216, registration sensor 151, linear encoder 193, and sheet sensor 205, and can receive liquid volume signal V12, registration signal V13, pulse signal V15, and sheet signal V16 from the liquid volume sensor 216, registration sensor 151, linear encoder 193, and sheet sensor 205, respectively.

[0134] The controller 270 has a total consumption counter in, for example, an EEPROM. This total consumption counter can be used to cumulatively estimate the amount of ink consumed in the memory unit 220. The accumulation of the total consumption counter can begin immediately after the ink injection process. In the following paragraphs, the counter value indicated by the total consumption counter can be referred to as the counter value C1.

[0135] The controller 270 has a timer 275, which is an internal circuit of the CPU. This timer 275 measures the length of time elapsed since the point when the command is input, according to instructions from the CPU. When the elapsed time reaches a predetermined time threshold, the timer 275 returns a response to the CPU indicating that the time has been reached. While the valve body 242 closes the atmospheric communication path 221K, and as the ink in the ink reservoir chamber 220B decreases, the intensity of the air pressure in the internal space 220A can decrease over time. In this respect, the elapsed time measured by the timer 275 is a factor that can cause changes in the air pressure in the reservoir section 220 depending on its length. This time threshold is set to a length shorter than the time that could cause meniscus damage in the nozzle 203 due to increased negative pressure in the internal space 220A. The time that could cause meniscus damage in the nozzle 203 can be predetermined by the manufacturer.

[0136] As in Figure 7 As shown, printer 100 may additionally include a weather sensor 217, a liquid level sensor 218, and a rotary encoder 164. These sensors may not necessarily be necessary for printer 100 in this embodiment; therefore, an explanation of these sensors is omitted here.

[0137] Image recording process performed by controller 270

[0138] While printer 100 is waiting for image recording, head 200, cap 260, and valve unit 240 are... Figure 8 The position shown is as indicated. In this arrangement, the head 200 waits in its original position, which in this embodiment can be the capped position P21. The capped position P21 can also be the origin from which the head 200 moves in the width direction 9. However, alternatively, the original position can be any position in the width direction 9 between the pressure plate 180 and the cap 260, or it can be a position to the right of the cap 260. The cap 260 remains at the capped position P31 and covers the nozzle 203 of the head 200. The valve body 242 is subjected to the contact force of the opener component 250 and opens the atmospheric communication path 221K to place the atmospheric communication path 221K in the connected state. The cap 230 closes the injection port 224A.

[0139] While printer 100 is waiting for or running the image recording process, controller 270 can receive print jobs and store the received print jobs in, for example, RAM. The action of controller 270 receiving print jobs and storing them in RAM is an example of a receiving process. The sender of the print job can be a personal computer or smartphone capable of communicating with printer 100. A print job is an execution command for the image recording process and includes at least image data and setting information. The image data describes the image to be recorded during the image recording process. The image data can describe an image to be recorded on a single sheet M or multiple images to be recorded on multiple sheets M. The setting information describes the settings used for the image recording process, including, for example, the size of the sheet M, the margins on the sheet M, and the image resolution.

[0140] Controller 270 can select one of the print jobs stored in RAM and start the image recording process based on the selected print job (see...). Figure 9A to Figure 9B ).

[0141] As in Figure 9A As shown, in S101, the controller 270 generates drive signals in RAM based on the image data. These drive signals can be used to drive the piezoelectric device in the drive head 200, and these drive signals are generated to achieve the full throughput required for recording the image described by the image data.

[0142] In S102, the controller 270 performs an estimation and accumulation process for the estimated total ink consumption. This estimated total ink consumption is the amount of ink consumed by the head 200 when all drive signals generated in S101 drive the piezoelectric device. Furthermore, in S102, the controller 270 adds the estimated total ink consumption to the counter value C1 in the total consumption counter.

[0143] In S103, controller 270 determines whether the current counter value C1 exceeds a volume threshold. This volume threshold indicates a predetermined amount of ink that can be stored in the ink storage chamber 220B between the lower index 223L and the upper index 223U. When controller 270 determines that the current counter value C1 exceeds the volume threshold, controller 270 proceeds to S117. When controller 270 determines that the current counter value C1 does not exceed the volume threshold, controller 270 proceeds to S104.

[0144] In S104, the controller 270 determines whether the null flag in the RAM or EEPROM is off. This null flag can be set off after the ink injection process (S117-S119), which will be described further below. The null flag can be set off in S115, which will be described further below (see...). Figure 9BThe remaining amount confirmation process in the ) is set to on. When the empty flag is off, the controller 270 proceeds to S105; however, when the empty flag is on, the controller 270 proceeds to S117.

[0145] In S105, controller 270 performs the rinsing process. Specifically, as an earlier step in the rinsing process, controller 270 performs a separation step, in which controller 270 outputs a control signal V24 to control the lifting assembly 261 via the lifting motor 274 to lower the cap 260 from the capped position P31 to the capless position P32 (see...). Figure 5 ).

[0146] As a later step in the rinsing process, the controller 270 moves the head 200 to the rinsing position P22 in the width direction 9. Specifically, the controller 270 outputs a control signal V23 to the carriage motor 273 to control the conveyor 210 to move the carriage 190 in the width direction 9. While the carriage 190 is being moved, the controller 270 determines the updated position of the head 200 based on the pulse signal V15 from the linear encoder 193. The controller 270 continues to move the head 200 toward the rinsing position P22 in the width direction 9 until the updated position matches the rinsing position P22. When the updated position of the head 200 matches the rinsing position P22, the controller 270 stops the head 200 at the rinsing position P22 and controls the head 200, which is resting on the ink receiver 194, to discharge ink into the ink receiver 194. The rinsing process is thus performed.

[0147] Following the rinsing process, in step S105, the controller 270 executes a movement process, whereby the controller 270 outputs a control signal V23 to the carriage motor 273 and moves the head 200 from the rinsing position P22 to its original position, the capping position P21. Simultaneously, the controller 270 periodically monitors the updated position of the head 200, and when the updated position matches the capping position P21, the controller 270 stops outputting the control signal V23. The process in S105 ends here.

[0148] In S106, the controller 270 selects from those drive signals stored in RAM the drive signal for one unit of the emission process to be run in S110 (see [link to S106]). Figure 9B ).

[0149] In S107, controller 270 executes a queuing process (an example of a feeding process) and controls the conveying of a sheet M from feeder tray 110 to a queuing position, which is located directly below sheet sensor 205 on the straight path P2. During the queuing process, specifically, controller 270 outputs a control signal V21 to feeder motor 271 to control feeder roller 133 to convey sheet M along the curved path P1. Simultaneously with outputting control signal V21, controller 270 periodically obtains a registration signal V13 from registration sensor 151 and stops outputting control signal V21 in response to changes in the level of the obtained registration signal V13. Therefore, sheet M can pause at the position of conveyor roller pair 160.

[0150] During the queuing process, after the stop control signal V21, the controller 270 outputs a control signal V22 to the conveyor motor 272 to control the conveyor roller pair 160 to convey the sheet M to the queuing position in the straight path P2. Simultaneously with outputting the control signal V22, the controller 270 periodically receives the sheet signal V16 and stops outputting the control signal V22 in response to changes in the level of the received sheet signal V16. Therefore, when the leading edge of the sheet M is at the queuing position, the sheet M can pause on the support surface 181.

[0151] In S108, based on the sheet size and margin dimensions included in the settings information in the print job, the controller 270 determines the ink discharge range R11 (see...). Figure 8 The ink discharge range R11 is the range in which ink can be discharged at the sheet M on the support surface 181, and is the difference between each side of the sheet M and the edge distance dimension.

[0152] In S109 (see Figure 9B In this process, controller 270 outputs control signal V23 to carriage motor 273 to move head 200 from capped position P21 to a position directly above the discharge start position in ink discharge range R11. This discharge start position is the initial position used for head 200 when recording a single-pass image on sheet M on support surface 181.

[0153] Before S109, in other words, when head 200 is at the capping position P21, as in Figure 8 As shown, atmospheric connection path 221K is in the connected state. From this position, in S109, as head 200 moves from capped position P21 to a position above the ink discharge range R11, valve body 242 separates from opener component 250 and closes atmospheric connection path 221K by the pushing force of spring 241 (see...). Figure 5Therefore, atmospheric connection path 221K is switched to the disconnected state. S109 is an example of the disconnection process, in which the switching component puts atmospheric connection path 221K into the disconnected state.

[0154] Furthermore, in S109, the controller 270 executes the measurement start process. Specifically, as the controller 270 begins to output the control signal V23, in other words, as the head 200 begins to move from the capped position P21, the controller 270 executes the measurement start process, wherein the controller 270 starts the timer 275 to begin the measurement time.

[0155] In S110, the controller 270 executes: a conveying process of transporting the head 200 in the scanning direction 9, i.e., the width direction 9; and a discharge process. The conveying process of transporting the head 200 in the scanning direction 9 can be referred to hereinafter as the scanning process. Specifically, during this scanning process, the controller 270 outputs a control signal V23 to the carriage motor 273 to control the conveyor 210 to transport the head 200 once in the scanning direction 9 in a unidirectional manner, i.e., to the right or left.

[0156] While the atmospheric connection path 221K is closed, and while the control signal V23 is being output during the scan, the emission process can be performed. Specifically, while the head 200 is moving above the ink emission range R11, the controller 270 will be in S106 (see...) Figure 9A ) or S114 (see Figure 9B The drive signal of the selected unit is applied to the piezoelectric device in the head 200. Therefore, the piezoelectric device can be driven, and ink can be discharged from the head 200 through the nozzle 203. Accordingly, an image of that pass along the scanning direction can be recorded on the sheet M.

[0157] The output drive signal has ended during this pass, the controller 270 stops outputting the control signal V23, and then the controller 270 exits S110.

[0158] In S111, controller 270 performs a condition determination process to determine whether a predetermined connection condition is met. Specifically, as a first example of the condition determination process, controller 270 may determine whether the elapsed time measured by timer 275 has reached a time threshold. More specifically, controller 270 may determine whether the elapsed time has reached the time threshold based on whether controller 270 received a response from timer 275 on or before S111. If controller 270 does not receive a response from timer 275, controller 270 may determine that the elapsed time has not reached the time threshold, and controller 270 may proceed to S113. If controller 270 receives a response from timer 275, controller 270 may determine that the elapsed time has reached the time threshold, and controller 270 may proceed to S112.

[0159] In S112, the controller 270 performs a retraction and connection process to move the head 200, causing it to reciprocate between the updated position and the capping position P21 in the scanning direction 9. Specifically, the controller 270 obtains the updated position of the head 200 based on the pulse signal V15 received from the linear encoder 193, and the controller 270 stores the updated position as a recovery position for the ink emission process in, for example, RAM. Furthermore, similar to S105 (see... Figure 9A The controller 270 can move the head 200 to the right to retract to the capping position P21 (i.e., the retraction process). In other words, the controller 270 moves the head 200 in the scanning direction 9 to an area where the head 200 cannot face the sheet M on the support surface 181. When the head 200 reaches the capping position P21, the valve body 242 can receive the contact force of the opening component 250, and the valve body 242 changes the atmospheric communication path 221K to the connected state (i.e., the connection process). Thereafter, the controller 270 moves the head 200 from the capping position P21 to the left to return to the recovery position. Furthermore, in S112, the controller 270 issues a reset command from the CPU to initialize the timer 275 and start measuring time.

[0160] It can be pointed out that timer 275 is in S112 (see Figure 9B The timer is reset in S109 and then begins measuring time thereafter. Alternatively, the timer 275 can accumulate the amount of time spent in ink discharge since the printer 100 has been powered on.

[0161] In S113, controller 270 determines whether the entire image for sheet M has been completely recorded. If controller 270 determines that image recording is not complete, controller 270 proceeds to S114, or if controller 270 determines that image recording is complete, controller 270 proceeds to S115.

[0162] In S114, controller 270 selects a drive signal from the drive signals for another unit to pass through in the next iteration. Furthermore, controller 270 performs an intermittent conveying process. Specifically, during this intermittent conveying process, controller 270 outputs a control signal V22 to conveyor motor 272 to control conveyor roller pair 160 to convey the sheet M forward along conveying orientation 4 by a distance equal to that of a single pass along conveying orientation 4, and controller 270 controls conveyor roller pair 160 to stop rotating. Controller 270 proceeds to S109.

[0163] In S115, controller 270 executes the discharge process to discharge the printed material M. Specifically, controller 270 can output a control signal V22 to conveyor motor 272 to control conveyor roller pair 160 and discharge roller pair 170 to discharge the printed material M through sheet outlet 370 at discharge tray 120. During the discharge process, controller 270 directs the sheet M, which is already on the support surface 181 facing the lower surface 201 of head 200 in the vertical direction 7, in conveying orientation 4 (see...). Figure 2 The material is uploaded to an area where the lower surface 201 of the head 200 cannot face the sheet M.

[0164] Furthermore, in S115, the controller 270 performs a remaining quantity verification process, and when the controller 270 determines that the level of the liquid quantity signal V12 indicating the surface of the ink is higher than the lower index 223L, the controller 270 sets the empty flag to off. On the other hand, when the controller 270 determines that the level of the liquid quantity signal V12 indicating the surface of the ink is lower than or equal to the lower index 223L, the controller 270 determines that the amount of ink in the storage unit 220 has reached the injection threshold amount, and sets the empty flag to on.

[0165] In S116, controller 270 determines whether image recording of all images on sheet M is complete. When controller 270 determines that image recording is not complete, controller 270 proceeds to S104 (see...). Figure 9A Alternatively, when controller 270 determines that image recording is complete, controller 270 terminates the recording. Figure 9A to Figure 9B The image recording process is shown in the figure.

[0166] Ink injection process (S117-S119)

[0167] In S117 (see Figure 9A In step S118, controller 270 performs the ink injection process. Specifically, controller 270 performs a movement process, where, similar to S106, controller 270 moves head 200 from the update position to the capping position P21. Controller 270 may output an audio message or image to warn the user that the ink reservoir chamber 220B needs to be refilled with ink. A user who recognizes this warning can access the reservoir section 220 and open the cap 230, subsequently proceeding with the predetermined refilling process. The user can attach a bottle containing ink (not shown) to the injection port 224A and fill the ink reservoir chamber 220B with the ink until the surface of the ink reaches the upper indicator 223U. In S118, the user can input a notification indicating that the ink reservoir chamber 220B has been refilled via, for example, an operation interface (not shown) in printer 100. In response to the user's input, in S119, controller 270 initializes the counter value C1 to zero (0) and sets the empty flag to off. Afterward, controller 270 proceeds to S105.

[0168] benefit

[0169] In printer 100, controller 270 can control valve body 242, which is an example of a valve in valve unit 240, to open atmospheric communication path 221K in response to meeting connection conditions (in other words, in response to elapsed time reaching a time threshold). Therefore, air can be reliably drawn into air chamber 220 in reservoir chamber 220, and ink can be stably supplied from ink reservoir chamber 220B to head 200.

[0170] The connection condition to be met is that the elapsed time can affect the air pressure in the ink storage chamber 220B while the elapsed time reaches a time threshold. Therefore, based on this connection condition, an excessive increase in negative pressure in the storage section 220 can be suppressed.

[0171] In S112 (see Figure 9B During the retraction process, the controller 270 controls the head 200 to move to an area where the head 200 cannot face the sheet M on the support surface 181 in the vertical direction 7, and controls the valve body 242 to open the atmospheric communication path 221K. Therefore, even if ink leaks out through the atmospheric communication path 221K, the contamination of the sheet M by the leaked ink can be suppressed.

[0172] Variation Example

[0173] While examples of implementing the invention have been described, those skilled in the art will understand that many variations and substitutions exist for liquid discharge devices falling within the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. It should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specified features or actions described above. Rather, the specified features and actions described above are disclosed as exemplary forms of implementing the claims. Furthermore, the terminology used to denote components in the above embodiments need not necessarily be identical to the terminology recited in the appended claims, but rather the terminology used in the above embodiments can be considered merely as examples of the claimed subject matter. Variations of this embodiment will be described below.

[0174] First variant example

[0175] When valve 242 closes atmospheric connection path 221K and ink in ink reservoir chamber 220B is consumed, the air pressure in internal space 220A can decrease due to ink consumption. The amount of ink consumed is related to the elapsed time from the start to the end of ink discharge during the discharge process. When the amount of air in internal space 220A is small while the amount of ink decreases, the air pressure in internal space 220A can decrease relatively quickly. On the other hand, when there is sufficient air while ink decreases, the air pressure can decrease relatively slowly compared to the case where the amount of air is small. In other words, the rate of decrease in air pressure is inversely related to the amount of air in internal space 220A. In this regard, the time threshold in timer 275 can be variable and can be set each time timer 275 is initialized. For example, controller 270 can set a time threshold larger than the time threshold set in timer 275 during the first round of initialization. This allows the connection process to be performed less frequently while air can be reliably supplied to air chamber 220C. The variable time threshold can also be preferably set by manufacturing.

[0176] Moreover, just as the time threshold in the first variant, the threshold in other variants (some of which will be described below) can also be variable.

[0177] Second variant example

[0178] The printer 100 in the second variant may differ from the printer 100 in the above embodiment in that it executes based on the weather signal V17 from the weather sensor 217. Figure 9A to Figure 9B The steps in S109-S112.

[0179] The weather sensor 217 may be an atmospheric pressure sensor placed in the internal space 220A of the storage section 220 (more specifically, in the air chamber 220C), and may output a weather signal V17 to the controller 270. The weather signal V17 is a signal indicating the air pressure of the air near the ink stored in the ink storage chamber 220B.

[0180] In S109 (see Figure 9B In the process, the controller 270 can replace the measurement start process to obtain the meteorological signal V17 and save the value of the air pressure indicated by the meteorological signal V17 in RAM as the first air pressure value.

[0181] In S110, the controller 270 can: obtain a weather signal V17 from the weather sensor 217 after executing the emission process, and store the air pressure value indicated by the weather signal V17 in RAM as a second air pressure value. Furthermore, the controller 270 can determine the amount of air pressure change, which is the change from the first air pressure value to the second air pressure value within a specified time period from the execution of the previous emission process (S110) to the current emission process (S110).

[0182] In S111, as a second example of the condition determination process, controller 270 can determine whether the air pressure change reaches an air pressure threshold lower than atmospheric pressure. This air pressure threshold is set to a value that is substantially smaller than the pressure change that could cause meniscus damage in nozzle 203 due to negative pressure in internal space 220A. The air pressure threshold can be determined during the design of printer 100 by manufacturing. If controller 270 determines in S111 that the air pressure change determined in S110 does not reach the air pressure threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S113; however, if controller 270 determines that the air pressure change reaches the air pressure threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S112.

[0183] In S112, instead of initializing the timer 275 and starting the measurement process, the controller 270 can override the first air pressure value with a second air pressure value. Therefore, the steps in S111 in the next round can preferably be performed based on the most recent air pressure conditions.

[0184] Benefits of the second variation

[0185] According to the printer 100 in the second variant, the controller 270 can perform the connection process in S112 based on the air pressure in the storage unit 220; therefore, meniscus damage can be prevented more reliably.

[0186] Second variant example (more options)

[0187] As another example, because the air pressure in the storage unit 220 is related to the air pressure in the storage unit 220, the weather sensor 217 can be placed outside the storage unit 220. In this context, the outside of the storage unit 220 can be either the internal space within the housing 300 or the space where the printer 100 is installed. When the weather sensor 217 is located in a position detached from the printer 100, the controller 270 can be connected to the weather sensor 217 either wired or wirelessly, and the controller 270 can acquire the weather signal V17 via wired or wireless communication.

[0188] As another example, controller 270 may not have to perform the condition determination process in S111 based on the amount of air pressure change, but may instead perform the condition determination process based on the value of air pressure indicated by meteorological signal V17.

[0189] As another example, since temperature and humidity are also related to air pressure, the weather sensor 217 can be a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor. With this arrangement, the controller 270 can perform the condition determination process in S111 based on the temperature or humidity indicated by the weather signal V17 or changes in temperature or humidity obtained from the weather signal V17. In other words, temperature or humidity can be another factor that can cause changes in air pressure within the storage unit.

[0190] Third variant example

[0191] The printer 100 in the third variant may differ from the printer 100 in the above embodiments in that it performs the following based on the liquid level signal V18 from the liquid level sensor 218: Figure 9A to Figure 9B The steps in S109-S112.

[0192] The liquid level sensor 218 can be, for example, a capacitive liquid level sensor, and is an example of a remaining quantity sensor. The liquid level sensor 218 can be arranged in the ink reservoir chamber 220B and output a liquid level signal V18 to the controller 270. The liquid level signal V18 can be a signal indicating the surface level of ink in the ink reservoir chamber 220B. In the arrangement where the liquid level sensor 218 is a capacitive liquid level sensor, the liquid level sensor 218 can have a pair of electrodes extending vertically in the ink reservoir chamber 220B. The liquid level sensor 218 can output a liquid level signal V18 indicating the capacitance between these electrodes that changes in response to an increase or decrease in the amount of ink in the ink reservoir chamber 220B.

[0193] In S109 (see Figure 9B In the process, the controller 270 can: obtain the liquid level signal V18 instead of the measurement start process, and store the value of the liquid level indicated by the liquid level signal V18 in RAM as the first liquid level.

[0194] In S110, the controller 270 can: after performing the discharge process, obtain a liquid level signal V18 from the liquid level sensor 218, and store the value of the liquid level indicated by the liquid level signal V18 in RAM as a second liquid level. Furthermore, the controller 270 can determine the amount of liquid level change, which is the change from the first liquid level to the second liquid level within a specified time period described above in the second variant example. The amount of liquid level change is an example of the amount of liquid in the ink storage chamber 220B, and is related to the air pressure in the internal space 220A.

[0195] In S111, as a third example of the condition determination process, controller 270 can determine whether the liquid level change reaches a liquid level threshold. This liquid level threshold is set to a value that is substantially smaller than the liquid level change that could cause meniscus damage in nozzle 203 due to negative pressure in internal space 220A. The liquid level threshold can be determined during manufacturing while designing printer 100. If controller 270 determines in S111 that the liquid level change determined in S110 has not reached the liquid level threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S113; however, if controller 270 determines that the liquid level change has reached the liquid level threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S112.

[0196] In S112, instead of initializing the timer 275 and starting the measurement process, the controller 270 can cover the first liquid level with the second liquid level. Therefore, the steps in S111 in the next round can preferably be performed based on the most recent liquid level conditions.

[0197] Benefits of the third variation

[0198] The liquid level is related to the amount of ink consumed; therefore, according to the third variation, meniscus damage can be prevented more reliably once again.

[0199] Third variant example (more options)

[0200] As another example, controller 270 may not have to perform the condition determination process in S111 based on the amount of liquid level change, but may instead perform the condition determination process based on the liquid level of the liquid surface indicated by the liquid level signal V18.

[0201] Fourth variant example

[0202] The printer 100 in the fourth variant may differ from the printer 100 in the above embodiments in that: the memory, such as EEPROM, in the controller 270 has a consumption counter; and it is executed in the following manner Figure 9A to Figure 9BThe steps in S109-S112. This consumption counter differs from the total consumption counter in that it can be used to accumulate the ink consumption in the storage unit 220.

[0203] In S102 (see) Figure 9A In this process, controller 270 can further execute a determination process for estimating individual consumable amounts. Specifically, controller 270 can calculate estimated individual consumable amounts, each of which is the amount of ink consumed for each unit of drive signal generated in S101 when the piezoelectric device in head 200 is driven according to the drive signal, and controller 270 can store the estimated individual consumable amounts associated with the corresponding unit of drive signal in RAM. Each estimated individual consumable amount is an estimate of the amount of ink consumed for recording one pass of image. In other words, the estimated individual consumable amount is an example of the amount of ink estimated during the estimation process.

[0204] In S109 (see Figure 9B In the alternative measurement start process, the controller 270 can initialize the counter value C2 in the consumable quantity counter to zero (0).

[0205] In S110, controller 270 can: read from RAM an estimated individual consumable quantity associated with the drive signal of the unit most recently used in S110, and add the estimated individual consumable quantity to the counter value C2 in the consumption counter. The counter value C2, including the added estimated individual consumable quantity, indicates the amount of ink change, i.e., the amount of ink consumed from ink storage chamber 220B within a specified period, which is between the initialization of the consumption counter and the end of the discharge process.

[0206] In S111, as a fourth example of the condition determination process, controller 270 can determine whether the counter value C2 has reached a consumable quantity threshold. This consumable quantity threshold is set to a value that is substantially smaller than the amount of liquid level change that could cause meniscus damage in nozzle 203 due to negative pressure in internal space 220A. The consumable quantity threshold can be determined during manufacturing while designing printer 100. If controller 270 determines in S111 that the counter value C2 has not reached the consumable quantity threshold determined in S110, controller 270 can proceed to S113; however, if controller 270 determines that the counter value C2 has reached the consumable quantity threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S112.

[0207] In S112, after the retreat and connection processes, the controller 270 can initialize the consumption counter instead of initializing the timer 275 and the measurement start process. Therefore, the steps in S111 in the next round can preferably be executed.

[0208] Benefits of the fourth variant

[0209] The counter value C2, which estimates the individual consumable amount, is related to the amount of ink consumed; therefore, according to the fourth variant, once again, meniscus damage can be reliably prevented, and ink can be stably supplied to the head 200 while air can be reliably supplied to the air chamber 220C in the storage section 220.

[0210] Fifth variant example

[0211] The printer 100 in the fifth variant may differ from the printer 100 in the above embodiments in that: the memory, such as EEPROM, in the controller 270 is equipped with a sheet counter; and it performs the following... Figure 9A to Figure 9B Steps S109-S112 and S115. The sheet counter can be used to count the number of sheets M conveyed by the conveyor roller pair 160 and the discharge roller pair 170.

[0212] In S109 (see Figure 9B In the measurement start process, the controller 270 can initialize the counter value C3 in the sheet counter to zero (0).

[0213] In S111, as a fifth example of the condition determination process, controller 270 can determine whether the counter value C3 has reached the sheet quantity threshold, that is, whether the counter value C3 is equal to or greater than the sheet quantity threshold. The sheet quantity threshold is set to a value that is smaller than the quantity determined experimentally and by manufacturing, and can be a natural number equal to or greater than 1. If controller 270 determines in S111 that the counter value C3 has not reached the sheet quantity threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S113; however, if controller 270 determines that the counter value C3 has reached the sheet quantity threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S112.

[0214] In S112, after the retraction and connection processes, the controller 270 can initialize the sheet counter instead of initializing the timer 275 and the measurement start process. Therefore, the steps in S111 in the next round can preferably be executed.

[0215] In S115, the controller 270 can perform a counting process in which the controller 270 increments the counter value C3 in the sheet counter by 1.

[0216] Benefits of the fifth variation

[0217] The number of sheets M that record images during the emission process is related to the amount of ink consumed; therefore, according to the fifth variant, once again, meniscus damage can be reliably prevented, and ink can be stably supplied to the head 200 while air can be reliably supplied to the air chamber 220C in the storage section 220.

[0218] Fifth variant example (more options)

[0219] Optionally, steps S111 and S112 can be performed after S113. In S113, the controller 270 determines whether the entire image of the sheet M is completely recorded (S113: Yes) or not completely recorded (S113: No).

[0220] As another example, the counter value C3 does not necessarily need to be initialized in steps S109 and S112. In the fifth variant described above, the counter value C3 can be initialized in S109 and S112; therefore, in S111, the controller 270 can compare the counter value C3 during a specified period between the initialization of the sheet counter and the end of the discharge process. More specifically, in the fifth variant described above, the sheet counter can be initialized in S112, and the counter value C3 can be incremented by 1 in S115. In other words, the sheet counter counts and accumulates the number of sheets M from the point in S112 when the connection process is performed. However, alternatively, the sheet counter can count and accumulate the number of sheets M from the moment the printer 100 is powered on. In other words, the counter value C3 does not necessarily need to represent the amount of change in the number of sheets, but can represent the number of sheets. With this arrangement, the sheet quantity threshold can be updated in S111.

[0221] Sixth variant example

[0222] The printer 100 in the sixth variant may differ from the printer 100 in the above embodiments in that: the memory, such as EEPROM, in the controller 270 is provided with a transfer count counter; and it is executed in the following manner Figure 9A to Figure 9B The steps in S109-S112 and S114. The transmission count counter can be used to count the number of intermittent transmission processes performed in S114.

[0223] In S109 (see Figure 9B In the measurement start process, the controller 270 can initialize the counter value C4 in the transmission number counter to zero (0).

[0224] In S110, the controller 270 can read the counter value C4 from the transmission number counter in the RAM.

[0225] In S111, as a sixth example of the condition determination process, controller 270 can determine whether the counter value C4 has reached the transmission number threshold; in other words, whether the counter value C4 is equal to or greater than the transmission number threshold. The transmission number threshold is set to a value that is fundamentally smaller than a number that can be derived experimentally and determined through manufacturing, and can be a natural number equal to or greater than 1. If controller 270 determines in S111 that the counter value C4 has not reached the transmission number threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S113; however, if controller 270 determines that the counter value C4 has reached the transmission number threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S112. It can be noted that, similar to the fifth variant described above, the counter value C4 may or may not represent the amount of change in the number of intermittent transmissions of sheet M during the period between the initialization of the transmission number counter and the end of the discharge process.

[0226] In S112, after the retreat and connection processes, the controller 270 can initialize the transmission count counter instead of initializing the timer 275 and the measurement start process. Therefore, the steps in S111 in the next round can preferably be executed.

[0227] In S114, the controller 270 can increment the counter value C4 in the transmission count counter by 1 to update the counter value C4. S114 is an example of an update process for updating the number of intermittent transmissions each time the first 200 is transmitted once.

[0228] Benefits of the sixth variant

[0229] The number of times the intermittent transfer process is performed is related to the amount of ink consumed; therefore, according to the sixth variant, once again, meniscus damage can be reliably prevented, and ink can be stably supplied to the head 200 while air can be reliably supplied to the air chamber 220C in the storage section 220.

[0230] Sixth variant example (more options)

[0231] In the sixth example described above, the transmission count counter can be initialized in S112, and the counter value C4 can be incremented by 1 in S114. In other words, the transmission count counter counts and accumulates the number of intermittent transmissions from the start of the connection process in S112. However, alternatively, the transmission count counter can count and accumulate the number of intermittent transmissions from the start of powering on the printer 100.

[0232] Seventh variant example

[0233] The printer 100 in the seventh variant may differ from the printer 100 in the above embodiments in that it is equipped with a rotary encoder 164 (see Figure 7The memory in the controller 270, such as an EEPROM, is equipped with a pulse count counter; and it performs the following operations: Figure 9A to Figure 9B The steps in S109-S112 and S114.

[0234] The rotary encoder 164 may have an encoder disk and an optical sensor. The encoder disk may be attached to the drive roller 161 (see...). Figure 2 The encoder disk has an axis and can rotate together with the drive roller 161. The encoder disk may have multiple first portions and multiple second portions, the multiple first portions allowing light emitted from the optical sensor to pass through the multiple first portions, and the multiple second portions blocking light emitted from the optical sensor. The first portions may be formed in the same shape and arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction of the axis of the drive roller 161. Each second portion is arranged circumferentially between two (2) adjacent first portions. The optical sensor may include a light emitter and a light receiver arranged facing each other across the circumferential exterior of the encoder disk. The light emitter may emit light at the light receiver, and the light receiver may output a pulse signal V19 to the controller 270, the level of which may vary depending on the amount of light received. While the rotational speed of the drive roller 161 is predetermined, the number of pulses contained in the pulse signal V19 is related to the amount of sheet M conveyed in the straight path P2.

[0235] A pulse count counter can be used to count the number of pulses contained in pulse signal V19.

[0236] In S109 (see Figure 9B In the measurement start process, the controller 270 can initialize the counter value C5 in the pulse count counter to zero (0).

[0237] In S110, the controller 270 can read the counter value C5 from the pulse count counter in the RAM.

[0238] In S111, as a seventh example of the condition determination process, controller 270 can determine whether the counter value C5 has reached a pulse count threshold. This pulse count threshold is set to a value that is fundamentally smaller than a number that can be derived experimentally and determined through manufacturing. If controller 270 determines in S111 that the counter value C5 has not reached the pulse count threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S113; however, if controller 270 determines that the counter value C5 has reached the pulse count threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S112. It can be noted that, similar to the fifth variant described above, the counter value C5 may or may not represent the amount of change in the number of pulses during the period between the initialization of the pulse count counter and the end of the emission process.

[0239] In S112, after the retreat and connection processes, the controller 270 can initialize the counter value C5 in the pulse count counter instead of initializing the timer 275 and the measurement start process. Therefore, the steps in S111 in the next round can preferably be executed.

[0240] In S114, while the intermittent transmission process is being executed, the controller 270 can obtain the pulse signal V19 from the rotary encoder 164 and execute a counting process, in which the counter value C5 in the pulse count counter is incremented by the number of pulses contained in the obtained pulse signal V19.

[0241] Benefits of the seventh variation

[0242] The number of pulses contained in the pulse signal V19 is related to the amount of ink consumed; therefore, according to the seventh variant, once again, meniscus damage can be reliably prevented, and ink can be stably supplied to the head 200 while air can be reliably supplied to the air chamber 220C in the storage section 220.

[0243] Eighth variant example

[0244] The printer 100 in the eighth variant may differ from the printer 100 in the above embodiments in that: the memory, such as EEPROM, in the controller 270 is provided with a pulse count counter; and it is executed in the following manner Figure 9A to Figure 9B The steps in S109-S112. The pulse count counter can be used to count the number of pulses contained in the pulse signal V15.

[0245] In S109 (see Figure 9B In the measurement start process, the controller 270 can initialize the counter value C6 in the pulse count counter to zero (0).

[0246] In S110, during the emission process, the controller 270 can: obtain a pulse signal V15 from the linear encoder 193 and increment the counter value C6 by the number of pulses contained in the obtained pulse signal V15. In the carriage motor 273 (see...) Figure 7 While the rotational speed of the head 200 is predetermined, the number of pulses contained in the pulse signal V15 is related to the amount of movement of the head 200. In other words, the number of pulses is generally related to the amount of ink to be consumed.

[0247] In S111, as an eighth example of the condition determination process, controller 270 can determine whether the counter value C6 has reached a pulse count threshold. This pulse count threshold is set to a value that is fundamentally smaller than a number that can be derived experimentally and determined through manufacturing. If controller 270 determines in S111 that the counter value C6 has not reached the pulse count threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S113; however, if controller 270 determines that the counter value C6 has reached the pulse count threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S112. It can be noted that, similar to the fifth variant described above, the counter value C6 may or may not represent the amount of change in the number of pulses during the period between the initialization of the transmission count counter and the end of the discharge process.

[0248] In S112, after the retreat and connection processes, the controller 270 can initialize the counter value C6 in the pulse count counter instead of initializing the timer 275 and the measurement start process. Therefore, the steps in S111 in the next round can preferably be executed.

[0249] Benefits of the eighth variation

[0250] According to the eighth variant, once again, meniscus damage can be prevented more reliably, and ink can be stably supplied to the head 200 while air can be reliably supplied to the air chamber 220C in the storage section 220.

[0251] Eighth variant example (more options)

[0252] In the eighth example described above, the pulse count counter can be initialized in S112, and the counter value C6 can be incremented in S110. In other words, the pulse count counter counts and accumulates the number of pulses from the start of the connection process in S112. However, alternatively, the pulse count counter can count and accumulate the number of pulses from the start of powering on the printer 100.

[0253] Ninth variant example

[0254] The printer 100 in the ninth variant may differ from the printer 100 in the above embodiments in that: the memory, such as EEPROM, in the controller 270 is provided with an execution count counter; and it executes in the following manner Figure 9A to Figure 9B The steps in S106, S107, S109, S111, and S112 are described above. An execution count counter can be used to count the number of times S107 is executed. The number of times S107 is executed can be equivalent to the counter value C3 in the sheet counter described in the fifth variant.

[0255] In S106 (see Figure 9AIn step S107, controller 270 can initialize the counter value C7 in the execution count counter to zero (0). In step S109, controller 270 increments the counter value C7 by 1. In step S109, controller 270 may choose not to execute the measurement start process.

[0256] In S111 (see) Figure 9B In the ninth example of the condition determination process, controller 270 can determine whether the counter value C7 has reached the execution number threshold. This execution number threshold is set to a value that is fundamentally smaller than the number determined experimentally and through manufacturing. If controller 270 determines in S111 that the counter value C7 has not reached the execution number threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S113; however, if controller 270 determines that the counter value C7 has reached the execution number threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S112. It can be noted that, similar to the fifth variant described above, the counter value C7 may or may not represent the amount of change in the number of times S107 is executed during the period between the initialization of the transmission number counter and the end of the discharge process.

[0257] In S112, controller 270 can initialize counter value C7 instead of initializing timer 275 and measurement start process.

[0258] Benefits of the Ninth Variation

[0259] According to the ninth variant, once again, meniscus damage can be reliably prevented, and ink can be stably supplied to the head 200 while air can be reliably supplied to the air chamber 220C in the storage section 220.

[0260] Ninth variant example (more options)

[0261] As another example, controller 270 may not need to execute S111 based on the number of times the feeding process is performed in S107, but may instead execute it based on the intermittent transmission process in S114, the emission process in S110, or during the image recording process (see image recording process). Figure 9A to Figure 9B The number of other steps performed in ) is used to execute S111.

[0262] As another example, the controller 270 may not need to perform the condition determination process based on the number of times it will be executed, but rather on the number of times the printer 100 performs the actions. In other words, the number of times the controller 270 executes the process can be substantially equal to the number of times the printer 100 performs the actions.

[0263] Tenth variant example

[0264] In the above embodiment, once the elapsed time exceeds the time threshold and between two (2) consecutively passed image records, the condition determination process in S111 and the process in S112 (see Figure 9B The connection process in steps S104-S116. However, alternatively, the condition determination process and the connection process may be performed at any timed interval after one of the steps S104-S116 or during said step.

[0265] For example, after the controller 270 determines in S113 that the entire image for sheet M has been completely recorded (S113: Yes), the condition determination process and the connection process can be executed. With this arrangement, the connection process can be executed after the discharge process in S110 is completed for one of the two (2) successive sheets M, which is an example of the first sheet, and before the discharge process in S110 for the other sheet M, which is an example of the second sheet among the two successive sheets M.

[0266] As another example, after the controller 270 determines in S116 that image recording for recording the entire image on the sheet M is complete (S116: Yes), a condition determination process and a connection process can be executed. With this arrangement, the connection process can be executed after the entire image described in the image data included in the print job has been completely recorded. Specifically, when the printer 100 sequentially performs the image recording process for each of the multiple print jobs stored in RAM (see...),... Figure 9A to Figure 9B In this case, a connection process can be performed between two consecutive print jobs. As another example, a connection process can be performed after all recorded images for a predetermined threshold number of print jobs have been recorded, and before another image for another print job has been recorded. This predetermined number can be a natural number equal to or greater than 1.

[0267] Eleventh variant (a variant of a switching component)

[0268] As another example, the switching assembly does not necessarily need to have a transmitter 210, a valve unit 240, and an actuator component 250, but can instead be constituted by, for example, a solenoid valve. The solenoid valve may include a solenoid and a valve body made of, for example, iron. The controller 270 can apply current to the solenoid, thereby attracting the valve body to the solenoid. Accordingly, the atmospheric connection path 221K can be opened. Conversely, when the controller 270 does not apply current to the solenoid, the valve body can detach from the solenoid, and the atmospheric connection path 221K can be closed.

[0269] Optionally, in an arrangement where the switching component is a solenoid valve, the controller 270 can execute the condition determination process in S111 in parallel with the discharge process in S110. With this arrangement, the controller 270 can execute the connection process in S112 without performing a retraction process. Thus, the connection process can be performed while the head 200 is facing the support surface. Accordingly, the connection process can be performed in a shorter time.

[0270] Optionally, in an arrangement where the switching component is a solenoid valve, the controller 270 can perform a condition determination process and a connection process after completing the discharge process in S115. During the discharge process, the sheet M on the support surface 181 can be moved on the conveyor orientation 4 by the conveyor roller pair 160 and the discharge roller pair 170 from the area where the sheet M faces the head 200 to the area where the sheet M does not face the head 200. If the atmospheric communication path 221K is opened through the connection process, ink may undesirably leak from the atmospheric communication path 221K. However, by performing the connection process after the discharge process, the contamination of the sheet M by the leaked ink can be prevented.

[0271] In this context, the statement "after the ejection process in S115" can mean: in the case where the printer 100 records images on multiple sheets M, after the ejection process of a sheet M on which a portion of the image has been recorded is ejected, and before the ejection process of recording another portion of the image on the next sheet M. Furthermore, the statement "after the ejection process in S115" can also mean: in the case where the printer 100 records images on a single sheet M, after the ejection process of the single sheet M on which the image has been recorded is ejected.

[0272] Twelfth variant (Variation of storage unit 220)

[0273] Next, refer to Figure 10A-10B The twelfth variant is described. The printer 100 in the twelfth variant may differ from the embodiments described above in that: as in Figure 10A As shown, the reservoir section 220 has four (4) ink reservoir chambers 220B, four (4) cylindrical walls 224, and four (4) covers 230. In the following paragraphs, the reservoir section 220 in the twelfth variant will be described in view of the differences from the printer 100 in the above embodiments, and articles and structures that are substantially the same or similar to those in the printer 100 in the above embodiments will be omitted or simplified. Figure 10A This is an explanatory diagram of the storage unit 220 in the twelfth variant example, viewed from the front. Figure 10B This is a right-side explanatory diagram of the storage unit 220 in the twelfth variant example.

[0274] As in Figure 10AAs shown, the internal space 200A of the storage unit 220 can be defined by the outer wall 221 and divided into four ink storage chambers 220B by three (3) dividing walls 225. These ink storage chambers 220B can store ink of different colors (such as yellow, magenta, cyan and black).

[0275] Each cylindrical wall 224 can be formed in the outer wall 221 at a position directly above a corresponding ink reservoir chamber 220B. Each cap 230 can be attached to and detached by a user from the upper end of the corresponding cylindrical wall 224 to close and open the upward-opening corresponding injection port 224A.

[0276] As in Figure 10B As shown, the reservoir section 220 has an atmospheric communication path 221K that is substantially the same as that in the above embodiment. The ink reservoir chamber 220B can be connected to the outside of the reservoir section 220 via the air chamber 220C and the atmospheric communication path 221K. The atmospheric communication path 221K can be an example of a common atmospheric communication path that connects the interior and exterior of the four ink reservoir chambers 220. Each ink reservoir chamber 220B is connected to the nozzle 203 in the head 200 via a corresponding ink flow path 204.

[0277] Furthermore, the printer 100 in the twelfth variant may differ from the printer 100 in the above embodiments in that: the memory, such as EEPROM, in the controller 270 has an ink consumption counter for each ink storage chamber 220 (in other words, for each ink of different colors); and it is executed in the following manner Figure 9A to Figure 9B Steps S102 and S109-S112. Each ink consumption counter can be used to accumulate the ink consumption in each storage unit 220.

[0278] In S102 (see) Figure 9A In this process, controller 270 can perform a determination process to determine an estimated individual consumption amount for each type of ink. Specifically, controller 270 can calculate estimated individual consumption amounts, each of which is the amount of ink consumed by a unit drive signal generated in S101 when the piezoelectric device in head 200 is driven according to a unit drive signal, and controller 270 can store the estimated individual consumption amount associated with the corresponding unit drive signal in RAM.

[0279] In S109 (see Figure 9B In the measurement start process, the controller 270 can initialize the counter value C2 in each ink consumption counter to zero (0).

[0280] In S110, the controller 270 can: read from RAM the estimated individual consumable quantity associated with the drive signal of the unit used in S110, and add the estimated individual consumable quantity to the counter value C2 in the corresponding ink consumption counter. The counter value C2, including the added estimated individual consumable quantity, indicates the amount of change for each type of ink, that is, the amount of ink consumed from the ink storage chamber 220B during a specified period between the initialization of the corresponding consumable quantity counter and the end of the discharge process.

[0281] In S111, as a fourth example of the condition determination process, controller 270 can determine whether any one of these counter values ​​C2 has reached a consumable quantity threshold. Similar to the consumable quantity threshold in the fourth variant, this consumable quantity threshold can be set to a value that is substantially smaller than the amount of liquid level change that could cause meniscus disruption in nozzle 203 due to negative pressure in internal space 220A. If controller 270 determines in S111 that none of the counter values ​​C2 determined in S110 have reached the consumable quantity threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S113; however, if controller 270 determines that at least one of these counter values ​​C2 has reached the consumable quantity threshold, controller 270 can proceed to S112.

[0282] In S112, after the retreat and connection processes, the controller 270 can initialize the consumption counter instead of initializing the timer 275 and the measurement start process. Therefore, the steps in S111 in the next round can preferably be executed.

[0283] Benefits of the twelfth variation

[0284] According to the twelfth variant in which the printer 100 can record multicolor images, air can once again be reliably supplied to the air chamber 220C in the storage unit 220. Furthermore, when the consumption of any of the four inks reaches a consumable threshold, the air chamber 220C connected to the four ink storage chambers 220B can be connected to the atmosphere regardless of the color of the consumed ink, thus allowing the ink storage chambers 220B to be collectively connected to the outside of the storage unit 220. This arrangement simplifies the process executed by the controller 270.

[0285] Twelfth variation (volume Vb of the air section)

[0286] Next, refer to Figure 11BThe volume Vb of the air section will be described. The air section is the portion of the internal space 220A that is not occupied by ink, i.e., the cavity. The volume Vb is the volume of the air section when the surface of the ink is at a vertical position substantially the same as the upper indicator 223U. The volume Vb can be determined by the manufacturer during the design phase in the following manner.

[0287] In valve body 242 (see Figure 10A While the atmospheric communication path 221K is closed—in other words, while the atmospheric communication path 221K is in an open state where the interior and exterior of the storage section 220 are disconnected—the controller 270 can execute an ink discharge process at the sheet M on the support surface 181 through the nozzle 203 of the head 200 to record a specified image based on specified image data under specified conditions. During the discharge process, as time progresses, with the atmospheric communication path 221K in the open state, the ink in the ink storage chamber 220B can be consumed, and the volume of the air section can increase; therefore, the air pressure in the air section can decrease.

[0288] Simultaneously, the printer 100 can perform a rinsing action before or during the emission process, before or during recording an image on the sheet M. Specifically, the head 200 can discharge ink through the nozzle 203 at the ink receiver 194 under the control of the controller 270. Therefore, through the rinsing action, the volume of the air section can increase or even more, and the air pressure in the air section can decrease over time. In a twelfth variant, the emission process includes the operation of the controller 270 for the rinsing action.

[0289] In this respect, the duration of the emission process can be a factor that changes the air pressure in the storage section 220.

[0290] In the twelfth variant, when the atmospheric connection path 221K is in the open state, the air pressure in the air section of the storage section 220, i.e., one atmosphere (1 atm), can be represented by the symbol Po. The change in the volume of the air section due to the change in ink volume caused by the emission process can be represented by the symbol ΔV, and the change in the pressure of the air section can be represented by the symbol ΔP. Simultaneously, the volume Vb is controlled to satisfy the formula: Vb=(Po+ΔP)*ΔV / ΔP…(Vb equals (Po plus ΔP) multiplied by ΔV divided by ΔP))(1).

[0291] Moreover, the pressure resistance of the meniscus formed by ink in the nozzle 203 can be represented by the symbol Pm, while ΔP satisfies the formula: ΔP<=Pm…(ΔP is less than or equal to Pm)(2).

[0292] The pressure resistance Pm can be predetermined based on the specifications of the ink and the nozzle 200. To calculate the pressure resistance Pm of the ink meniscus, the surface tension and contact angle of the genuine ink provided by the manufacturer or distributor of the printer 100 can be used. Specifically, if the diameter of each nozzle 203 is d, the surface tension of the ink can be represented by the symbol σ, and the contact angle of the ink at the bottom 201 of the nozzle 203 can be represented by the symbol θ, then Pm can be obtained from the following formula: Pm=4*σ*cosθ / d…(Pm equals 4 multiplied by σ multiplied by cosθ divided by d)(3). Meanwhile, the diameter d of the nozzle 203 can be based on the exit diameter of the nozzle 203.

[0293] The surface tension σ can be obtained, for example, by the Wilhelmy method. The contact angle θ can be the contact angle when the ink droplet falls on the lower 201 of the flat ink discharge surface, and can be obtained, for example, by the θ / 2 method.

[0294] The specified image is a multicolor pattern image defined in ISO / IEC 24734, established by the International Organization for Standardization. A color pattern image is an image defined in ISO / IEC 24734 and described using image data in a predetermined data format (doc, xls, pdf, etc.).

[0295] The specified condition involves continuously recording the specified image for 30 seconds on an A4-sized sheet, as an example, using either the speed-priority mode or the high-quality mode as defined in ISO / IEC 24734. 30 seconds is an example of the specified time length. The specified condition specifically includes resolution (CR×LF) and margin dimensions. The resolution can be, for example, 600×300 dpi. In the case of doc format, the margin dimension is 34.3 mm on each of the top and bottom edges, and 29.2 mm on each of the left and right edges of the sheet. In the case of xls format, the margin dimension is 3 mm on each of the top and bottom edges, and 3 mm on each of the left and right edges of the sheet.

[0296] When the volume Vb of the air section is determined as described above, instead of timer 275, controller 270 may have an air pressure sensor to detect the air pressure of the air section. Using the air pressure sensor, controller 270 may not start timing with timer 275 in S109 or reset timer 275 in S112. Instead, controller 270 can determine the amount of change in air pressure by subtracting the air pressure detected by the air pressure sensor in S110 from one atmosphere, and in S111, determine whether the amount of change in air pressure has reached ΔP, which is an air pressure threshold; in other words, whether the connection condition is met. If controller 270 determines in S111 that the amount of change in air pressure has reached ΔP, controller 270 may proceed to S112; and if controller 270 determines in S111 that the amount of change in air pressure has not reached ΔP, controller 270 may proceed to S113.

[0297] Twelfth Variation Example (More Options)

[0298] As another example, the number of storage chambers 220B in the storage section 220 does not have to be limited to four (4), but can be any number equal to or more than two (2).

[0299] As another example, the solenoid valve can switch the state of atmospheric connection path 221B between a connected state and a disconnected state.

[0300] Moreover, as in Figure 11AAs shown, the internal space 220A in the storage unit 220 can be divided into four (4) segments by three (3) vertical dividing walls 222A, each segment having an ink storage chamber 220B and an air chamber 220C. In other words, the storage unit 220 can include four (4) ink storage chambers 220B, four (4) air chambers 220C, and four (4) air sections. With this arrangement, each ink storage chamber 220B can be individually connected to the outside of the storage unit 220 via one of the four air sections in the four (4) individual atmospheric communication paths 221K, which are examples of the multiple atmospheric communication paths. Moreover, for each air chamber 220C, a separate valve placement space 220D can be arranged to the right relative to that air chamber 220C. In each valve placement space 220D, a valve unit 240 can be arranged. The frame 301 may have four (4) opening components 250, each corresponding to one of the four valve units 240. As the head 200 moves to the capped position P21, the opening component 250 can collectively and substantially simultaneously switch each valve unit 240 to the connected state, and as the head 200 leaves the capped position P21, the opening component 250 can switch the corresponding valve unit 240 to the disconnected state.

[0301] Thirteenth variant (Variation of the opener component 250)

[0302] In the above embodiment, the actuator component 250 protrudes from the frame 301 toward the valve body 242 (see, for example, see...). Figure 4 and Figure 5 However, alternatively, as in Figure 12A to Figure 12B As shown, the opener component 250 can protrude outward from the outer wall 221 from the valve body 242 through the atmospheric communication path 221K. With this arrangement, as the head 200 moves toward the capped position P21, the opener component 250 can contact the frame 301, and thereby the valve body 242 can switch the atmospheric communication path 221K to a connected state (see...). Figure 12A On the other hand, as the head 200 leaves the capped position P21, the opener component 250 can be separated from the frame 301, and thereby the valve body 242 can switch the atmospheric communication path 221K to the open state (see...). Figure 12B ).

[0303] Fourteenth Variation (Variation of Cap 260 and Lifting Component 261)

[0304] In the above embodiment, the lifting assembly 261 can be moved between the capping position P31 and the cap-removing position P32 by the driving force transmitted from the lifting motor 274. Alternatively, the cap 260 and the lifting assembly 261 can be moved using a carriage 190 that moves in the scanning direction 9. While the cap 260 and the lifting assembly 261 have known constructions, the description of the cap 260 and the lifting assembly 261 will be simplified in the following paragraphs.

[0305] Hat 260 can be used as follows Figure 13B The diagram shows a contact member 265 that can contact a carriage 190 that moves in the scanning direction 9. As the contact member 265 is pushed by the carriage 190, the cap 260 can move in the scanning direction 9.

[0306] The lifting assembly 261 may have a first guide surface 266, a second guide surface 267, and an inclined surface 268. The first guide surface 266 may extend in the front-rear direction 8 and the width direction 9 at a position to the right of the pressure plate 180, and the first guide surface 266 may support the cap 260 at the cap-off position P32. The second guide surface 267 may extend in the front-rear direction 8 and the width direction 9 at a position to the right of the first guide surface 266, and the second guide surface 267 may support the cap 260 at the cap-on position P31. The inclined surface 268 is a flat surface connecting the right end of the first guide surface 266 and the left end of the second guide surface 267.

[0307] The cap 260, which moves in the scanning direction 9, can move between the first guide surface 266 and the second guide surface 267 via the inclined surface 268. Therefore, when the cap 260 is supported by the second guide surface 267 (see...), Figure 13A When the cap 260 is applied, it can cover the nozzle 203 at the capping position P31. Figure 13A to Figure 13B (Not shown in the image). On the other hand, when the cap 260 is supported by the first guide surface 266 (see... Figure 13B When ), the hat 260 can be located at the hat-off position P32.

[0308] Fifteenth Variation Example

[0309] In a second variation, controller 270 determines whether the amount of air pressure change during a specified time period, i.e., from the end of the emission process (S111) in the previous round to the emission process (S111) in the most recent round, has reached an air pressure threshold. However, controller 270 may not need to determine whether the amount of air pressure change during the specified time period has reached the air pressure threshold. For example, controller 270 may determine whether the amount of ink change during a specified time period, measured by, for example, a timer, has reached a consumable threshold. Moreover, the specified time period can be either a fixed length or a variable length.

[0310] Moreover, once again, the specified time period mentioned in the third to ninth variations can be either a fixed length or a variable length.

[0311] Benefits of the fifteenth variation

[0312] When the specified time period is variable, the number of times the connection process is executed can be preferably adjusted.

[0313] More examples

[0314] As another example, the liquid discharge device is not necessarily limited to the printer 100 described above, but can be a multifunction peripheral machine, copier, or fax machine. A multifunction peripheral machine can be a device equipped with multiple functions, including printing, copying, and fax transmission / reception.

[0315] As another example, when the switching component is composed of a solenoid valve, the printer 100 can have a line-type printhead instead of a serial-type printhead 200. In the printer 100 with the line-type printhead 200, the printhead 200 cannot be moved in the scanning direction 9, but can remain stationary at a position above the pressure plate 180.

[0316] As another example, printer 100 is not necessarily limited to a carriage-integrated printer, but can be a so-called off-carriage printer, wherein the storage unit 220 may not be mounted on the carriage 190, but can be positioned separately from the carriage 190. When printer 100 is an off-carriage printer, the storage unit 220 may not move in the width direction 9 inside the housing 300; therefore, the switching component may preferably be composed of a solenoid valve.

[0317] As another example, the sheet M may not necessarily be conveyed in the straight path P2 by the conveyor roller pair 160 and the discharge roller pair 170, or it may not necessarily be supported from below by the pressure plate 180 in the straight path P2. Alternatively, the printer 100 may have a conveyor belt as another example of a rotating body, which can be rolled by, for example, the driving force of the conveyor motor 272 to convey the sheet M in the straight path P2 in the conveying orientation 4.

[0318] As another example, the rotary encoder 164 does not necessarily need to be attached to the drive roller 161, but can instead be attached to a rotating body that can transmit driving force from the conveyor motor 272 to the drive roller 161. This rotating body can be, for example, the output shaft of the conveyor motor 272 and a gear that can be arranged in the driving force transmission path between the conveyor motor 272 and the drive roller 161. The output shaft and gear are further examples of rotating bodies that can convey the sheet M in the conveying orientation 4.

[0319] As another example, the storage unit 220 does not have to be an ink canister fixed to the head 200, but can be a cartridge that is detachably attached to the head 200.

Claims

1. A liquid discharging apparatus comprising: a head configured to discharge a liquid; a reservoir portion having: a liquid reservoir chamber configured to store the liquid; and an atmospheric communication path connecting the liquid reservoir chamber with the outside, a liquid flow path connecting the head with the liquid reservoir chamber for the liquid to flow in the liquid flow path; a switching assembly configured to switch a state of the atmospheric communication path between a connected state in which the atmospheric communication path connects the liquid reservoir chamber with the outside and a disconnected state in which the atmospheric communication path disconnects the liquid reservoir chamber from the outside; and a controller configured to: execute a disconnected process in which the controller controls the switching assembly to switch the state of the atmospheric communication path from the connected state to the disconnected state; execute a discharging process in which the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid after the disconnected process; and execute a connected process in which the controller controls the switching assembly to switch the state of the atmospheric communication path from the disconnected state to the connected state after the disconnected process and in response to a predetermined connection condition being satisfied, and wherein the controller is configured to execute the disconnected process after the connected state in response to the predetermined connection condition being satisfied without executing a process of refilling the liquid reservoir chamber with the liquid.

2. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the connection condition is an amount of an element that causes a change in an air pressure in the reservoir portion reaching a threshold value.

3. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the amount of the element is at least one of a temperature, a humidity, an intensity of an air pressure, an amount of change in the temperature, an amount of change in the humidity, and an amount of change in the air pressure in the reservoir portion.

4. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the amount of the element is an amount of the liquid in the liquid reservoir chamber.

5. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to execute an estimation process in which the controller estimates an amount of the liquid to be discharged in the discharging process, and wherein the amount of the element is the amount of the liquid estimated in the estimation process.

6. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the amount of the element is a length of elapsed time.

7. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a rotating body configured to convey at least one sheet in a conveyance orientation, wherein the controller is configured to execute a counting process in which the controller counts a number of the at least one sheet conveyed by the rotating body, and wherein the amount of the element is the number of the at least one sheet.

8. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 7, ​ ​ wherein the connection condition is that the number of the at least one sheet becomes equal to or greater than a sheet number threshold, and wherein the sheet number threshold is 1.

9. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a rotating body configured to convey a sheet in a conveyance orientation; and a carriage on which the head is mounted, the carriage being configured to move in a scan direction that intersects the conveyance orientation, wherein the controller is configured to execute an intermittent conveyance process in which the controller controls the rotating body to intermittently convey the sheet and stop conveying the sheet, wherein, in the discharging process, the controller controls the carriage to convey the head once through in the scan direction, and the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid at the sheet while the rotating body stops conveying the sheet, wherein the controller is configured to execute an update process in which the controller updates a number of times of the intermittent conveyance of the sheet by the rotating body each time the head is conveyed once through, and wherein the amount of the element is the number of times of the intermittent conveyance.

10. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the connection condition is that the number of times of the intermittent conveyance becomes equal to or greater than a conveyance number threshold, and wherein the conveyance number threshold is 1.

11. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a rotating body configured to convey a sheet in a conveyance orientation; and a rotary encoder configured to output a pulse signal according to an amount of rotation of the rotating body, wherein the head is configured to discharge the liquid at the sheet conveyed by the rotating body, and wherein the controller is configured to execute a counting process in which the controller counts a number of pulses included in the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder, and wherein the amount of the element is the number of pulses.

12. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a rotating body configured to convey a sheet in a conveyance orientation; a carriage on which the head is mounted, the carriage being configured to move in a scan direction that intersects the conveyance orientation; and a linear encoder configured to output a pulse signal according to an amount of movement of the carriage, wherein the controller is configured to execute an intermittent conveyance process in which the controller controls the rotating body to intermittently convey the sheet and stop conveying the sheet, wherein, in the discharging process, the controller controls the carriage to convey the head once through in the scan direction, and the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid at the sheet, wherein the controller is configured to execute a counting process during the discharging process in which the controller counts a number of pulses included in the pulse signal output from the linear encoder, and wherein the amount of the element is the number of pulses.

13. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a tray configured to store a sheet; a feeder configured to feed the sheet from the tray; and a rotator configured to convey the sheet fed by the feeder in a conveyance orientation, wherein the controller is configured to execute: a feeding process in which the controller controls the feeder to feed the sheet from the tray; a conveying process in which the controller controls the rotator to convey the sheet; and a counting process in which the controller counts a number of times of execution of at least one process selected from the feeding process, the conveying process, and the discharging process, and wherein the amount of the element is the number of times of execution of the at least one process.

14. The liquid discharging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the controller is configured to execute a receiving process in which the controller receives a job, in the discharging process, the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid based on the job received in the receiving process, and wherein in response to the connection condition being satisfied and the job being completed, the controller executes the connection process. wherein 15. The liquid discharging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the controller is configured to execute a receiving process in which the controller receives a job at least once, the job being a processing object for the discharging process, to process the processing object in the discharging process, the controller is configured to control the head to discharge the liquid based on the job, the job including a plurality of jobs received in a plurality of times of execution of the receiving process; wherein the connection condition is that a number of the jobs processed in the discharging process becomes equal to or greater than a job number threshold, wherein, wherein the job number threshold is 1.

16. The liquid discharging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the controller is configured to execute the discharging process in which the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid successively at a first sheet and a second sheet, wherein the controller is configured to, in response to the connection condition being satisfied and a portion of the discharging process in which the liquid is discharged at the first sheet ending, execute the connection process before starting another portion of the discharging process in which the liquid is discharged at the second sheet.

17. The liquid discharging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the controller is configured to: execute the discharging process in which the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid at a sheet; and in response to the connection condition being satisfied and while the head faces the sheet, execute the connection process.

18. The liquid discharging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a rotator configured to convey a sheet in a conveyance orientation, wherein the controller is configured to: ​ ​ the controller controls the head to discharge the liquid at the sheet during the discharge process; after the discharge process, an evacuation process is executed in which the controller controls the rotary body to convey the sheet in the conveyance orientation to a region where the sheet does not face the head; and in response to the connection condition being satisfied and the discharge process ending, the connection process is executed.

19. The liquid discharging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising: a rotary body configured to convey a sheet in a conveyance orientation; and a carriage on which the head is mounted, the carriage being configured to move in a scan direction that intersects the conveyance orientation, and wherein the controller is configured to: in response to the connection condition being satisfied, execute a retreat process in which the controller controls the carriage to move the head in a scan direction to retreat to a region where the head does not face the sheet, the scan direction intersecting the conveyance orientation; and in response to the head being retreated to the region during the retreat process, execute the connection process.

20. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the head includes a nozzle through which the liquid is discharged, wherein the atmospheric communication path connects an inside of the liquid reservoir chamber with an outside through an air portion, wherein a volume Vb of the air portion is set to satisfy formulas (1) and (2): Vb = (Po + ΔP) * ΔV / ΔP... (1); and ΔP <= Pm... (2), wherein Po represents one atmosphere, wherein ΔV represents a change in the volume of the air portion due to a change in the volume of the liquid as a result of discharging a predetermined amount of the liquid in the discharge process under specified conditions to record a specified image on a sheet, wherein ΔP represents a change in the pressure of the air portion according to a change in the volume of the liquid in the discharge process, wherein Pm represents a predetermined pressure resistance of a meniscus formed by the liquid in the nozzle, and wherein the connection condition is that the amount of change in the pressure of the air portion due to the discharge process reaches ΔP.

21. The liquid discharging apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the specified image is a pattern image defined by the International Organization for Standardization, and wherein the specified conditions are that the pattern image is recorded continuously for a specified length of time.

22. The liquid discharging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, 20 to 21, wherein the liquid reservoir chamber includes a plurality of liquid reservoir chambers, each of the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers containing a liquid of a different color, and wherein the atmospheric communication path is a common atmospheric communication path that connects the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers with an outside.

23. The liquid discharging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, 20 to 21, wherein the liquid reservoir chamber includes a plurality of liquid reservoir chambers, each of the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers containing a liquid of a different color, and wherein the atmospheric communication path includes a plurality of separate atmospheric communication paths, each of the plurality of separate atmospheric communication paths connecting one of the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers with the outside, wherein the switching assembly is configured to collectively switch a state of the plurality of separate atmospheric communication paths between a connected state in which the separate atmospheric communication paths connect the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers with the outside and a disconnected state in which the plurality of separate atmospheric communication paths disconnect the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers from the outside, and wherein the controller is configured to execute the connection process in response to at least one of the plurality of liquid reservoir chambers satisfying a predetermined connection condition.

24. The liquid discharge apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the threshold value is one of a variable value and a fixed value.

25. The liquid discharge apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 13, 20 to 21, wherein the amount of the element is an amount of change of the element over a specified period of time, and wherein the specified period of time is one of a variable period of time and a fixed period of time.

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