Drive mechanism, moving device, and recording device

Abstract

The present application provides a drive mechanism, a moving device and a recording device, in which the rotational load of a worm is varied depending on the direction in which a moving portion moves. The drive mechanism is a drive mechanism that moves the moving portion in a predetermined direction and an opposite direction opposite to the predetermined direction, and includes: a worm connected to a drive source and moving the moving portion by rotating; a worm wheel engaged with the worm; and a holding portion that holds the worm, the holding portion having a strong restriction portion that comes into contact with the worm when the moving portion moves in the predetermined direction and a weak restriction portion that comes into contact with the worm when the moving portion moves in the opposite direction, the friction coefficient of the strong restriction portion with the worm being greater than the friction coefficient of the weak restriction portion with the worm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a drive mechanism, a moving device, and a recording device. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a drive mechanism comprising: a worm gear that rotates via a drive source; a worm wheel that meshes with the worm gear; and a retaining part that holds the worm gear. The drive mechanism moves a moving part by rotating the worm gear.

[0003] In this drive mechanism, when the moving part moves, the worm is subjected to a thrust from the worm wheel. This causes the worm to collide with the retaining part. This collision generates a rotational load on the worm. For this rotational load, it is preferable that the load differs in the two directions in which the moving part moves. For example, when the moving part moves downwards, it is preferable that the rotational load on the worm is larger to prevent excessive increase in the speed of the moving part. Conversely, when the moving part moves upwards, it is preferable that the rotational load on the worm is smaller to ensure smooth movement of the moving part.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-145551 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The driving mechanism for solving the above-mentioned problem is a driving mechanism that moves a moving part in a predetermined direction and in the opposite direction. The driving mechanism includes: a worm gear connected to a drive source, which moves the moving part by rotation; a worm wheel meshing with the worm gear; and a retaining part that retains the worm gear. The retaining part has a strong limiting part and a weak limiting part. The strong limiting part contacts the worm gear when the moving part moves in the predetermined direction, and the weak limiting part contacts the worm gear when the moving part moves in the opposite direction. The coefficient of friction between the strong limiting part and the worm gear is greater than the coefficient of friction between the weak limiting part and the worm gear.

[0006] A mobile device for solving the above-mentioned problems is characterized by comprising: the aforementioned drive mechanism; the mobile part; and a control unit that controls the drive mechanism, wherein when the mobile part moves in the predetermined direction, the control unit stops the mobile part by stopping the drive source when the rotational load of the worm exceeds the threshold.

[0007] The mobile device for solving the above-mentioned problem includes: the aforementioned drive mechanism; the moving part; and a control unit that controls the drive mechanism, wherein when the moving part moves in the opposite direction, the control unit stops the moving part by stopping the drive source when the amount of movement of the moving part exceeds the threshold.

[0008] The recording apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problem includes: the drive mechanism described above; and the moving part, which is a recording part for recording on a medium.

[0009] The recording device for solving the above-mentioned problem includes: the aforementioned drive mechanism; a recording unit that records by spraying liquid onto a medium; and a moving unit that is a maintenance unit for maintaining the recording unit.

[0010] A recording device for solving the above-mentioned problem includes: a recording unit that records by spraying liquid onto a medium; a maintenance unit that maintains the recording unit; a first drive mechanism that moves the recording unit in a first predetermined direction and a first opposite direction; and a second drive mechanism that moves the maintenance unit in a second predetermined direction and a second opposite direction, wherein the second predetermined direction is a direction different from the first predetermined direction and the first opposite direction. The first drive mechanism includes: a first worm gear connected to a first drive source and rotating to move the recording unit; a first worm wheel meshing with the first worm gear; and a first holding unit that holds the first worm gear. The first holding unit includes: a first strong limiting unit that, when the recording unit moves in the first predetermined direction, engages with the first worm gear. The second drive mechanism includes: a second worm gear connected to a second drive source, which moves the maintenance unit by rotation; a second worm wheel meshing with the second worm gear; and a second holding portion holding the second worm gear. The second holding portion includes: a second strong limiting portion that contacts the second worm gear when the maintenance unit moves in a second predetermined direction; and a second weak limiting portion that contacts the second worm gear when the maintenance unit moves in a second opposite direction. The coefficient of friction between the first strong limiting portion and the first worm gear is greater than the coefficient of friction between the first weak limiting portion and the first worm gear, and the coefficient of friction between the second strong limiting portion and the second worm gear is greater than the coefficient of friction between the second weak limiting portion and the second worm gear. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1This is the main view of a recording device, which is an example of a mobile device.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a front view of the recording section located at the recording position and the maintenance section located at the standby position.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a front view of the recording section located in the avoidance position and the maintenance section located in the contact position.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a front view of the recording section located at the maintenance position and the maintenance section located at the contact position.

[0015] Figure 5 A side sectional view of the first drive mechanism that moves the recording section.

[0016] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a first drive mechanism for moving the recording section in a first predetermined direction.

[0017] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a first drive mechanism that moves the recording section in the opposite direction.

[0018] Figure 8 A side sectional view of the second drive mechanism for moving the maintenance section.

[0019] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a second drive mechanism for moving the maintenance section in a second predetermined direction.

[0020] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a second drive mechanism that moves the maintenance section in the opposite direction. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The recording device will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, as an example of a moving device equipped with a drive mechanism. The moving device is not limited to a recording device and may be embodied in other devices. The recording device is a printer that records images such as text and photographs on media such as paper or cloth. In particular, the recording device is an inkjet printer that records images by ejecting ink, an example of a liquid, onto the media.

[0022] Recording device

[0023] like Figure 1 As shown, the recording device 11 has a housing 12.

[0024] The recording device 11 has one or more storage sections 13. The storage section 13 is configured to contain the medium 99. The storage section 13 is, for example, a box that can be pulled out relative to the housing 12.

[0025] The recording device 11 includes a transport path 14. The transport path 14 is the path through which the medium 99 is transported. The transport path 14 extends within the housing 12. The transport path 14 extends, for example, in a manner that discharges the medium 99 from the receiving section 13 to the outside of the housing 12. Images are recorded during the transport of the medium 99 along the transport path 14.

[0026] The recording device 11 includes a conveying unit 15. The conveying unit 15 is configured to convey the medium 99. The conveying unit 15 has, for example, one or more rollers. The conveying unit 15 conveys the medium 99 stored in the receiving unit 13 along the conveying path 14.

[0027] The conveying unit 15 includes, for example, a conveyor belt 16, a first pulley 17, and a second pulley 18. The conveyor belt 16 is wound around the first pulley 17 and the second pulley 18. The conveyor belt 16, for example, adsorbs the medium 99 by electrostatic adsorption. Thus, the conveyor belt 16 supports the medium 99. The conveyor belt 16 may also be configured to adsorb the medium 99 by suction generated by negative pressure. The first pulley 17 and the second pulley 18 are arranged along the conveying path 14. By rotating the first pulley 17 and the second pulley 18, the conveyor belt 16 rotates circumferentially. As a result, the medium 99 supported on the conveyor belt 16 is conveyed.

[0028] The recording device 11 includes a stacker 19. The recorded medium 99 is loaded on the stacker 19. The stacker 19 is located outside the housing 12, for example. The medium 99 is discharged onto the stacker 19 by being conveyed along the conveying path 14.

[0029] The recording device 11 includes a recording unit 21. The recording unit 21 is configured to record images on a medium 99. The recording unit 21 records images on the medium 99 by spraying liquid onto the medium 99. The recording unit 21 is, for example, a head having one or more nozzles 22. The recording unit 21 records images on the medium 99 conveyed by the conveyor unit 15. The recording unit 21 is, for example, located opposite the conveyor belt 16. The recording unit 21 records images on the medium 99 supported by the conveyor belt 16.

[0030] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the recording unit 21 is configured to move to multiple positions. The recording unit 21 is configured to move to the recording position P1 and the maintenance position P2. Figure 2 The position of the recording unit 21 shown is the recording position P1. Figure 4 The position of the recording unit 21 shown is the maintenance position P2. The recording unit 21 is configured to move to the avoidance position P3 in addition to the recording position P1 and the maintenance position P2. Figure 3The position of the recording unit 21 shown is the avoidance position P3.

[0031] Recording position P1 is the position where the recording unit 21 records on the medium 99. Among recording position P1, maintenance position P2, and avoidance position P3, recording position P1 is the position where the recording unit 21 is closest to the conveyor belt 16. Recording position P1 is, for example, a position lower than maintenance position P2.

[0032] Maintenance position P2 is the position where the recording unit 21 is being maintained. Maintenance position P2 is, for example, a position lower than the avoidance position P3.

[0033] The avoidance position P3 is the position where the recording unit 21 makes a avoidance maneuver. The avoidance position P3 is the position that the recording unit 21 traverses when it moves from the recording position P1 to the maintenance position P2, and when it moves from the maintenance position P2 to the recording position P1. Therefore, when the recording unit 21 moves between the recording position P1 and the maintenance position P2, it will temporarily avoid the obstacle and move to the avoidance position P3.

[0034] The recording device 11 includes a maintenance section 23. The maintenance section 23 is configured to maintain the recording section 21. The maintenance section 23 maintains the recording section 21 by contacting it. The maintenance section 23 includes, for example, a contact section 24, a support section 25, and a pressing section 26.

[0035] When the maintenance unit 23 performs maintenance on the recording unit 21, the contact part 24 contacts the recording unit 21. In detail, the contact part 24 contacts the recording unit 21 in a manner that covers the nozzle 22. The contact part 24 is, for example, a cap covering the nozzle 22. Therefore, by contacting the recording unit 21 with the contact part 24, the nozzle 22 is kept moist. As a result, clogging of the nozzle 22 is prevented. This is called capping. In this way, the maintenance unit 23 performs maintenance on the recording unit 21. The contact part 24 is not limited to a cap; it can also be a wiper that removes liquid by contacting the recording unit 21. In this case, the liquid adhering to the recording unit 21 is removed. This is called wiping.

[0036] For example, while the contact part 24 is in contact with the recording part 21, the maintenance unit 23 can force liquid out of the nozzle 22 by applying negative pressure to the recording part 21. In this case, solidified liquid, air bubbles, etc., will be discharged from the recording part 21. This is called cleaning. The maintenance unit 23 performs maintenance on the recording part 21 such as capping, wiping, and cleaning.

[0037] The maintenance unit 23 can also receive the liquid generated by rinsing through the contact part 24, thereby maintaining the recording unit 21. Rinsing is performed to suppress clogging of the nozzle 22, thereby allowing the recording unit 21 to spray liquid. When rinsing the recording unit 21, it can be performed either with the contact part 24 in contact with the recording unit 21 or without contact. That is, the maintenance unit 23 can perform maintenance without the contact part 24 being in contact with the recording unit 21. However, in this embodiment, the case where the maintenance unit 23 maintains the recording unit 21 by contacting the recording unit 21 will be described.

[0038] The support portion 25 supports the contact portion 24.

[0039] The pressing part 26 is mounted on the contact part 24 and the support part 25. When the contact part 24 is in contact with the recording part 21, the pressing part 26 presses the contact part 24 against the recording part 21. Thus, the contact part 24 is tightly pressed against the recording part 21. By making the contact part 24 tightly pressed against the recording part 21, the maintenance effect achieved by the maintenance part 23 is improved. The pressing part 26 is, for example, a spring.

[0040] The maintenance unit 23 is configured to move to multiple positions. The maintenance unit 23 is configured to move to a standby position Q1 and a contact position Q2. Figure 2 The position of the maintenance unit 23 shown is the standby position Q1. Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The position of the maintenance part 23 shown is the contact position Q2.

[0041] Standby position Q1 is the position where the maintenance unit 23 is in standby mode. The maintenance unit 23 is in standby position Q1 when it is not performing maintenance on the recording unit 21, for example, when the recording unit 21 is recording. Standby position Q1 is, for example, a position lower than the contact position Q2.

[0042] Contact position Q2 is the position where the maintenance unit 23 contacts the recording unit 21. That is, contact position Q2 is the position where the maintenance unit 23 performs maintenance on the recording unit 21. The maintenance unit 23, located at contact position Q2, contacts the recording unit 21, located at maintenance position P2. Contact position Q2 is the position between the recording unit 21 and the conveyor belt 16.

[0043] When the maintenance unit 23 performs maintenance on the recording unit 21, firstly, the recording unit 21 moves from the recording position P1 to the avoidance position P3. During this movement, the maintenance unit 23 moves from the standby position Q1 to the contact position Q2. After reaching the contact position Q2, the recording unit 21 moves from the avoidance position P3 to the maintenance position P2. Thus, the recording unit 21 comes into contact with the maintenance unit 23. When the recording unit 21 is not recording an image on the medium 99, it remains in standby mode while the recording unit 21 and maintenance unit 23 are in contact.

[0044] When the recording unit 21 records an image on the medium 99, firstly, the recording unit 21 moves from the maintenance position P2 to the avoidance position P3. During the period when the recording unit 21 moves from the maintenance position P2 to the avoidance position P3, the maintenance unit 23 moves from the contact position Q2 to the standby position Q1. After the maintenance unit 23 moves to the standby position Q1, the recording unit 21 moves from the avoidance position P3 to the recording position P1.

[0045] The recording device 11 includes a control unit 28. The control unit 28 controls the movement of the recording unit 21. The control unit 28 also controls the movement of the maintenance unit 23. The control unit 28 can also control the recording device 11 uniformly.

[0046] The control unit 28 may also be composed of one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program. The control unit 28 may also be composed of one or more special-purpose hardware circuits, such as integrated circuits, that execute at least a portion of the various processes. The control unit 28 may also be composed of circuitry including a processor and hardware circuitry. The processor includes a CPU and memories such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. Memory, or computer-readable medium, includes all readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0047] The recording device 11 includes one or more drive mechanisms. A drive mechanism is a mechanism that moves a movable part, which is the object to be moved. The drive mechanism is controlled by the control unit 28. Therefore, the movement of the movable part is controlled by the control unit 28. The moving device includes at least a movable part, a drive mechanism, and a control unit 28.

[0048] The recording device 11 includes, for example, a first drive mechanism 31A and a second drive mechanism 31B. The first drive mechanism 31A is a mechanism for moving the recording unit 21. That is, in the first drive mechanism 31A, the moving part is the recording unit 21. The second drive mechanism 31B is a mechanism for moving the maintenance unit 23. That is, in the second drive mechanism 31B, the moving part is the maintenance unit 23. The first drive mechanism 31A and the second drive mechanism 31B move their respective moving parts in opposite directions.

[0049] <First Drive Mechanism>

[0050] First, the first drive mechanism 31A will be explained.

[0051] The first drive mechanism 31A has a first drive source 32A. The first drive source 32A is a motor. The first drive source 32A has a first output shaft 33A. The first output shaft 33A is a rotor. The first drive source 32A causes the first output shaft 33A to rotate.

[0052] The first drive mechanism 31A may include a control circuit. The control circuit is a circuit that controls the first drive source 32A. For example, the control circuit controls the first drive source 32A based on an instruction from the control unit 28.

[0053] The first drive mechanism 31A has a first worm gear mechanism 34A. The first worm gear mechanism 34A is connected to the first drive source 32A. The first worm gear mechanism 34A has a first worm 35A and a first worm wheel 36A. The first worm 35A is connected to the first output shaft 33A. Specifically, the first worm 35A is connected to the first output shaft 33A via a coupling component. The first worm 35A can also be directly mounted on the first output shaft 33A, thereby connecting it to the first output shaft 33A. The first worm 35A and the first output shaft 33A rotate together. The rotation of the first worm 35A causes the moving part, namely the recording part 21, to move. The first worm wheel 36A meshes with the first worm 35A. The first worm wheel 36A and the first worm 35A rotate together.

[0054] The first drive mechanism 31A has a first drive gear 37A. The first drive gear 37A is connected to a first worm gear 36A. The first drive gear 37A is connected to the first worm gear 36A, for example, by being coaxial with it. The first drive gear 37A and the first worm gear 36A rotate together. The first drive gear 37A is not limited to being coaxial with the first worm gear 36A; it can also be located on a different axis from the first worm gear 36A. For example, the first drive gear 37A can also be connected to the first worm gear 36A through a gear train consisting of multiple gears.

[0055] The first drive mechanism 31A has a first rack 38A. The first rack 38A meshes with a first drive gear 37A. The first rack 38A extends linearly in one direction. For example, the first rack 38A extends in a first predetermined direction D1. The first rack 38A and the first drive gear 37A constitute a rack and pinion. The first rack 38A rotates via the first drive gear 37A, thereby moving relative to the first drive gear 37A.

[0056] The first rack 38A is mounted on the recording unit 21, for example. In contrast, the first drive source 32A, the first worm gear mechanism 34A, and the first drive gear 37A are mounted on the housing 12. In this case, the first rack 38A moves relative to the first drive gear 37A by rotating the first drive gear 37A. Simultaneously with the movement of the first rack 38A, the recording unit 21 moves.

[0057] The first rack 38A can also be fixed to the housing 12, for example. Conversely, the first drive source 32A, the first worm gear mechanism 34A, and the first drive gear 37A can also be mounted on the recording unit 21. In this case, rotation of the first drive gear 37A causes the first drive source 32A, the first worm gear mechanism 34A, and the first drive gear 37A to move relative to the first rack 38A. This movement of the first drive source 32A, the first worm gear mechanism 34A, and the first drive gear 37A moves the recording unit 21.

[0058] The first drive mechanism 31A moves the recording unit 21 in the direction extending from the first rack 38A. The first drive mechanism 31A also moves the recording unit 21 in a first predetermined direction D1 and a first opposite direction D2. By moving the recording unit 21 in the first predetermined direction D1 and the first opposite direction D2, the first drive mechanism 31A moves it to a recording position P1, a maintenance position P2, and a clearance position P3.

[0059] The first predetermined direction D1 is, for example, a downward direction. Therefore, when the recording unit 21 moves in the first predetermined direction D1, it will move downward. However, the "downward direction" is not limited to a vertical downward direction. The first predetermined direction D1 is, for example, a direction different from both the vertical and horizontal directions. Specifically, the first predetermined direction D1 is a direction that is diagonally downward. The first predetermined direction D1 is, for example, a direction that brings the recording unit 21 closer to the maintenance unit 23. Furthermore, it is a direction that brings the recording unit 21 into contact with the maintenance unit 23. That is, the first predetermined direction D1 is a direction in which the recording unit 21 approaches the conveyor belt 16.

[0060] The first opposite direction D2 is, for example, an upward direction. Therefore, when the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2, it will move upward. However, "upward direction" is not limited to a vertically upward direction. Specifically, the first opposite direction D2 is a direction diagonally upward. The first opposite direction D2 is, for example, a direction that moves the recording unit 21 away from the maintenance unit 23. That is, the first opposite direction D2 is a direction in which the recording unit 21 moves away from the conveyor belt 16.

[0061] After the first drive mechanism 31A moves the recording unit 21 from the recording position P1 to the avoidance position P3 in the first opposite direction D2, it moves the recording unit 21 from the avoidance position P3 to the maintenance position P2 in the first predetermined direction D1. After moving the recording unit 21 from the maintenance position P2 to the avoidance position P3 in the first opposite direction D2, the first drive mechanism 31A moves the recording unit 21 from the avoidance position P3 to the recording position P1 in the first predetermined direction D1. The recording position P1, maintenance position P2, and avoidance position P3 are arranged in this order in the first opposite direction D2.

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, the first drive mechanism 31A has a first holding portion 41A. The first holding portion 41A is, for example, a metal plate. The first holding portion 41A can hold the first drive source 32A. For example, the first drive source 32A can be threaded onto the first holding portion 41A.

[0063] The first holding part 41A is mounted on the housing 12. In this case, the recording part 21 moves relative to the first holding part 41A. Alternatively, the first holding part 41A can be mounted on the recording part 21. In this case, the recording part 21 and the first holding part 41A move together.

[0064] The first retaining part 41A holds the first worm 35A. Specifically, the first retaining part 41A holds the first worm 35A in a rotatable manner. The first worm 35A is held so that it can move axially. The first worm 35A receives a thrust from the first worm wheel 36A. The first worm 35A moves axially by receiving this thrust. The first retaining part 41A receives this thrust by contacting the first worm 35A. When the first worm 35A is directly mounted on the first output shaft 33A, the rotor of the first output shaft 33A moves relative to the stator (not shown) of the first drive source 32A.

[0065] The first retaining portion 41A has a first base end portion 42A and a first tip portion 43A. The first base end portion 42A and the first tip portion 43A are located at a position where the first worm 35A is clamped. The distance between the first base end portion 42A and the first tip portion 43A is longer than the length of the first worm 35A. The first base end portion 42A is the portion opposite to the first base end of the first worm 35A. The first base end of the first worm 35A is the end of the first worm 35A that is closer to the first drive source 32A. The first drive source 32A is threaded onto the first base end portion 42A. The first tip portion 43A is the portion opposite to the first tip of the first worm 35A. The first tip of the first worm 35A is the end of the first worm 35A that is farther from the first drive source 32A.

[0066] The first retaining portion 41A has a first connecting portion 44A. The first connecting portion 44A is the portion that connects the first base portion 42A and the first tip portion 43A. The first connecting portion 44A extends, for example, to cover the first worm gear 35A. Thus, the first worm gear 35A is protected.

[0067] When the recording unit 21 moves in the first predetermined direction D1, it receives thrust from the first worm wheel 36A via the first worm 35A, thereby bringing the first worm 35A closer to the first base end portion 42A. As a result, the first base end portion 42A receives thrust via the first strong restraint portion 45A, which will be described later.

[0068] When the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2, it receives thrust from the first worm wheel 36A via the first worm 35A, causing the first worm 35A to approach the first tip portion 43A. As a result, the first tip portion 43A receives thrust via the first weak limiting portion 46A, which will be described later.

[0069] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first retaining portion 41A has two limiting portions. The first retaining portion 41A has a first strong limiting portion 45A and a first weak limiting portion 46A. The first strong limiting portion 45A and the first weak limiting portion 46A are, for example, washers. The first strong limiting portion 45A is mounted on the first base end portion 42A. The first weak limiting portion 46A is mounted on the first top end portion 43A.

[0070] The distance between the first strong limiting part 45A and the first weak limiting part 46A is longer than the length of the first worm 35A. Therefore, the first worm 35A moves between the first strong limiting part 45A and the first weak limiting part 46A. When the recording unit 21 moves, the first worm 35A contacts either the first strong limiting part 45A or the first weak limiting part 46A. When the recording unit 21 moves in the first predetermined direction D1, the first worm 35A contacts the first strong limiting part 45A. At this time, the first weak limiting part 46A does not contact the first worm 35A. When the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2, the first worm 35A contacts the first weak limiting part 46A. At this time, the first strong limiting part 45A does not contact the first worm 35A.

[0071] The first strong limiting part 45A and the first weak limiting part 46A restrict the movement of the first worm 35A by contacting it. The coefficient of friction between the first strong limiting part 45A and the first worm 35A is greater than that between the first weak limiting part 46A and the first worm 35A. Therefore, when the first strong limiting part 45A is in contact with the first worm 35A, that is, when the recording unit 21 moves in the first predetermined direction D1, the first worm 35A becomes difficult to rotate. As a result, the rotational load on the first worm 35A increases. When the first weak limiting part 46A is in contact with the first worm 35A, that is, when the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2, the first worm 35A becomes easier to rotate. As a result, the rotational load on the first worm 35A decreases. In this way, in the first drive mechanism 31A, depending on the direction of movement of the recording unit 21, the rotational load of the first worm 35A, that is, the rotational load of the first drive source 32A caused by the contact between the first worm 35A and the first holding unit 41A, will be different.

[0072] <Second drive mechanism>

[0073] Next, the second drive mechanism 31B will be described. The second drive mechanism 31B has basically the same structure as the first drive mechanism 31A. The difference between the second drive mechanism 31B and the first drive mechanism 31A is that the positions of the strong limiting part and the weak limiting part are different.

[0074] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the second drive mechanism 31B has a second drive source 32B. The second drive source 32B is a motor. The second drive source 32B has a second output shaft 33B. The second output shaft 33B is a rotor. The second drive source 32B causes the second output shaft 33B to rotate.

[0075] The second drive mechanism 31B may include a control circuit. The control circuit is a circuit that controls the second drive source 32B. For example, the control circuit controls the second drive source 32B based on an instruction from the control unit 28.

[0076] The second drive mechanism 31B has a second worm gear mechanism 34B. The second worm gear mechanism 34B is connected to the second drive source 32B. The second worm gear mechanism 34B has a second worm 35B and a second worm wheel 36B. The second worm 35B is connected to the second output shaft 33B. Specifically, the second worm 35B is connected to the second output shaft 33B via a coupling component. The second worm 35B can also be directly mounted on the second output shaft 33B, thereby connecting it to the second output shaft 33B. The second worm 35B and the second output shaft 33B rotate together. The rotation of the second worm 35B causes the moving part, i.e., the maintenance part 23, to move. The second worm wheel 36B meshes with the second worm 35B. The second worm wheel 36B and the second worm 35B rotate together.

[0077] The second drive mechanism 31B has a second drive gear 37B. The second drive gear 37B is connected to the second worm gear 36B. The second drive gear 37B is connected to the second worm gear 36B, for example, by being coaxial with it. The second drive gear 37B and the second worm gear 36B rotate together. The second drive gear 37B is not limited to being coaxial with the second worm gear 36B; it can also be located on a different axis from the second worm gear 36B. For example, the second drive gear 37B can also be connected to the second worm gear 36B through a gear train consisting of multiple gears.

[0078] The second drive mechanism 31B has a second rack 38B. The second rack 38B meshes with a second drive gear 37B. The second rack 38B extends linearly in one direction. For example, the second rack 38B extends in a second predetermined direction D3. The second rack 38B extends in a direction different from the first rack 38A. That is, the second predetermined direction D3 is a direction different from the first predetermined direction D1 and the first opposite direction D2. The second rack 38B and the second drive gear 37B constitute a rack and pinion. The second rack 38B moves relative to the second drive gear 37B by rotating the second drive gear 37B.

[0079] The second rack 38B is mounted on the maintenance unit 23, for example. In contrast, the second drive source 32B, the second worm gear mechanism 34B, and the second drive gear 37B are mounted on the housing 12. In this case, the second rack 38B moves relative to the second drive gear 37B by rotating the second drive gear 37B. Simultaneously with the movement of the second rack 38B, the maintenance unit 23 moves.

[0080] The second rack 38B can also be fixed to the housing 12, for example. Conversely, the second drive source 32B, the second worm gear mechanism 34B, and the second drive gear 37B can also be mounted on the maintenance unit 23. In this case, rotation of the second drive gear 37B causes the second drive source 32B, the second worm gear mechanism 34B, and the second drive gear 37B to move relative to the second rack 38B. This movement of the second drive source 32B, the second worm gear mechanism 34B, and the second drive gear 37B moves the maintenance unit 23.

[0081] The second drive mechanism 31B moves the maintenance part 23 in the direction extending from the second rack 38B. The second drive mechanism 31B also moves the maintenance part 23 in a second predetermined direction D3 and a second opposite direction D4. By moving the maintenance part 23 in the second predetermined direction D3 and the second opposite direction D4, the second drive mechanism 31B moves it to the standby position Q1 and the contact position Q2.

[0082] The second predetermined direction D3 is, for example, a downward direction. Therefore, when the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second predetermined direction D3, it will move downward. However, the "downward direction" is not limited to a vertical downward direction. The second predetermined direction D3 is, for example, a direction different from both the vertical and horizontal directions. Specifically, the second predetermined direction D3 is a direction that is diagonally downward. The second predetermined direction D3 is, for example, a direction that moves the maintenance unit 23 away from the recording unit 21.

[0083] The second opposite direction D4 is, for example, an upward direction. Therefore, when the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second opposite direction D4, it will move upward. However, "upward direction" is not limited to a vertical direction. Specifically, the second opposite direction D4 is a diagonally upward direction. The second opposite direction D4 is, for example, a direction that brings the maintenance unit 23 closer to the recording unit 21.

[0084] The second drive mechanism 31B moves the maintenance unit 23 from the contact position Q2 to the second predetermined direction D3, thereby displacing it to the standby position Q1. The second drive mechanism 31B then moves the maintenance unit 23 from the standby position Q1 to the second opposite direction D4, thereby displacing it to the contact position Q2. The standby position Q1 and the contact position Q2 are arranged in this order along the second predetermined direction D3.

[0085] like Figure 8As shown, the second drive mechanism 31B has a second holding portion 41B. The second holding portion 41B is, for example, a metal plate. The second holding portion 41B can hold the second drive source 32B. For example, the second drive source 32B can be threaded onto the second holding portion 41B.

[0086] The second retaining part 41B is mounted on the housing 12. In this case, the maintenance part 23 moves relative to the second retaining part 41B. Alternatively, the second retaining part 41B can be mounted on the maintenance part 23. In this case, the maintenance part 23 and the second retaining part 41B move together.

[0087] The second retaining part 41B holds the second worm 35B. Specifically, the second retaining part 41B holds the second worm 35B in a rotatable manner. The second worm 35B is held so that it can move axially. The second worm 35B receives a thrust from the second worm wheel 36B. The second worm 35B moves axially by receiving this thrust. The second retaining part 41B receives this thrust by contacting the second worm 35B. When the second worm 35B is directly mounted on the second output shaft 33B, the rotor of the second output shaft 33B moves relative to the stator (not shown) of the second drive source 32B.

[0088] The second retaining portion 41B has a second base end portion 42B and a second top end portion 43B. The second base end portion 42B and the second top end portion 43B are located at a position where the second worm 35B is clamped. The distance between the second base end portion 42B and the second top end portion 43B is longer than the length of the second worm 35B. The second base end portion 42B is the portion opposite to the second base end of the second worm 35B. The second base end of the second worm 35B is the end of the second worm 35B that is closer to the second drive source 32B. The second drive source 32B is threaded onto the second base end portion 42B. The second top end portion 43B is the portion opposite to the second top end of the second worm 35B. The second top end of the second worm 35B is the end of the second worm 35B that is farther from the second drive source 32B.

[0089] The second retaining portion 41B has a second connecting portion 44B. The second connecting portion 44B is the portion that connects the second base portion 42B and the second top portion 43B. The second connecting portion 44B extends, for example, to cover the second worm gear 35B. Thus, the second worm gear 35B is protected.

[0090] When the maintenance section 23 moves in the second predetermined direction D3, the second worm 35B receives thrust from the second worm wheel 36B, thereby bringing the second worm 35B closer to the second tip portion 43B. As a result, the second tip portion 43B receives the thrust via the second strong restraint section 45B, which will be described later.

[0091] When the maintenance section 23 moves in the second opposite direction D4, the second worm 35B receives thrust from the second worm wheel 36B, thereby bringing the second worm 35B closer to the second base end portion 42B. As a result, the second base end portion 42B receives the thrust via the second weak limiting section 46B, which will be described later.

[0092] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the second retaining portion 41B has two limiting portions. The second retaining portion 41B has a second strong limiting portion 45B and a second weak limiting portion 46B. The second strong limiting portion 45B and the second weak limiting portion 46B are, for example, washers. The second strong limiting portion 45B is mounted on the second top portion 43B. The second weak limiting portion 46B is mounted on the second base portion 42B.

[0093] The distance between the second strong limiting part 45B and the second weak limiting part 46B is longer than the length of the second worm 35B. Therefore, the second worm 35B moves between the second strong limiting part 45B and the second weak limiting part 46B. When the maintenance part 23 moves, the second worm 35B contacts either the second strong limiting part 45B or the second weak limiting part 46B. When the maintenance part 23 moves in the second predetermined direction D3, the second worm 35B contacts the second strong limiting part 45B. At this time, the second weak limiting part 46B does not contact the second worm 35B. When the maintenance part 23 moves in the second opposite direction D4, the second worm 35B contacts the second weak limiting part 46B. At this time, the second strong limiting part 45B does not contact the second worm 35B.

[0094] The second strong limiting part 45B and the second weak limiting part 46B restrict the movement of the second worm 35B by contacting it. The coefficient of friction between the second strong limiting part 45B and the second worm 35B is greater than that between the second weak limiting part 46B and the second worm 35B. Therefore, when the second strong limiting part 45B is in contact with the second worm 35B, that is, when the maintenance part 23 moves in the second predetermined direction D3, the second worm 35B becomes difficult to rotate. As a result, the rotational load on the second worm 35B increases. When the second weak limiting part 46B is in contact with the second worm 35B, that is, when the maintenance part 23 moves in the second opposite direction D4, the second worm 35B becomes easier to rotate. As a result, the rotational load on the second worm 35B decreases. In this way, in the second drive mechanism 31B, depending on the direction of movement of the maintenance part 23, the rotational load of the second worm 35B, that is, the rotational load of the second drive source 32B caused by the contact between the second worm 35B and the second holding part 41B, will be different.

[0095] <The functions of the first and second drive mechanisms>

[0096] Next, the functions of the first drive mechanism 31A and the second drive mechanism 31B will be explained. As explained so far, the first drive mechanism 31A and the second drive mechanism 31B differ only in the object they move; they have the same structure. Therefore, without distinguishing between the first drive mechanism 31A and the second drive mechanism 31B, they will be referred to as drive mechanisms. Accordingly, the first drive source 32A and the second drive source 32B will be labeled as drive sources, the first output shaft 33A and the second output shaft 33B as output shafts, the first worm gear 34A and the second worm wheel mechanism 34B as worm gear mechanisms, the first worm 35A and the second worm 35B as worms, the first worm wheel 36A and the second worm wheel 36B as worm wheels, the first drive gear 37A and the second drive gear 37B as drive gears, and the first rack 38A and the second rack 38B as racks. Furthermore, the first holding portion 41A and the second holding portion 41B are labeled as holding portions, the first base end portion 42A and the second base end portion 42B are labeled as base end portions, the first top end portion 43A and the second top end portion 43B are labeled as top end portions, the first connecting portion 44A and the second connecting portion 44B are labeled as connecting portions, the first strong limiting portion 45A and the second strong limiting portion 45B are labeled as strong limiting portions, and the first weak limiting portion 46A and the second weak limiting portion 46B are labeled as weak limiting portions. Furthermore, the first predetermined direction D1 and the second predetermined direction D3 are labeled as predetermined directions, and the first opposite direction D2 and the second opposite direction D4 are labeled as opposite directions.

[0097] In the moving device, the control unit 28 may sometimes move the moving part downwards. In this case, since the moving part is easily moved due to gravity, the rotational load on the worm gear tends to be small. That is, the acceleration of the moving part tends to be large. As a result, the moving part may move beyond its intended range. In this respect, in this embodiment, when the moving part moves downwards, the rotational load on the worm gear is set to be large by a strong limiting part. Therefore, when the moving part moves downwards, it is difficult for the acceleration of the moving part to increase. Thus, the possibility of the moving part moving beyond its intended range is reduced.

[0098] In the moving device, the control unit 28 may sometimes move the moving part upwards. In this case, the moving part may be difficult to move due to gravity, and the rotational load on the worm may easily increase. That is, the moving part may not move smoothly. In this regard, in the drive mechanism, when the moving part moves upwards, it is configured to reduce the rotational load on the worm by means of a weak limiting part. As a result, when the moving part moves upwards, the moving part can move smoothly.

[0099] In the recording device 11, when the recording unit 21 moves in the first predetermined direction D1, the first strong limiting part 45A reduces the possibility that the recording unit 21 will move to a position greater than intended. When the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2, the first weak limiting part 46A allows the recording unit 21 to move smoothly. When the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second predetermined direction D3, the second strong limiting part 45B reduces the possibility that the maintenance unit 23 will move to a position greater than intended. When the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second opposite direction D4, the second weak limiting part 46B allows the maintenance unit 23 to move smoothly.

[0100] The control unit 28 can also stop the moving part by stopping the drive source when the rotational load of the worm exceeds a threshold while the moving part is moving in a predetermined direction. That is, the control unit 28 can also move the moving part by implementing load control. Load control is the control that stops the drive source when the rotational load of the worm exceeds a threshold. In load control, for example, the moving part stops when it comes into contact with an object at its destination. The rotational load of the worm is expressed, for example, as the load current flowing to the drive source. When the moving part comes into contact with the object, the rotational load of the worm increases. This stops the moving part.

[0101] In load control, it is preferable that the rotational load of the worm gear greatly exceeds a threshold when the moving part comes into contact with the object. This is because the moving part can stop immediately. If the moving part does not stop immediately, it may forcefully press against the object. In this case, for example, the moving part may cause plastic deformation of the object. For example, in the recording device 11, when the recording part 21 comes into contact with the maintenance part 23, the contact part 24 and the pressing part 26 may undergo plastic deformation due to the forceful pressing of the recording part 21 against the maintenance part 23. Furthermore, the moving part may be damaged due to contact with the object. For example, the recording part 21 may be damaged due to a strong collision between the recording part 21 and the maintenance part 23. Specifically, the nozzle surface (not shown) where the nozzle 22 is formed in the recording part 21 may be damaged. In this respect, in this embodiment, it is configured that when the recording part 21 moves in the first predetermined direction D1, the rotational load of the first worm gear 35A is increased in advance by the first strong limiting part 45A. Therefore, when the recording unit 21 comes into contact with the maintenance unit 23, the rotational load on the first worm gear 35A will greatly exceed the threshold. Thus, the control unit 28 can immediately stop the recording unit 21.

[0102] The control unit 28 can also stop the moving part by stopping the drive source when the moving part moves in the opposite direction, triggered by the moving part's movement exceeding a threshold. That is, the control unit 28 is not limited to load control; it can also move the moving part by implementing fixed-step control. Fixed-step control is control that stops the drive source when the moving part's movement exceeds a threshold. The moving part's movement can be expressed, for example, as the number of revolutions of the drive source or the rotational speed of the drive source. The moving part's movement can be measured, for example, by obtaining information related to the rotation of the drive source through an encoder.

[0103] In fixed-step control, it is preferable to have a small rotational load on the worm gear. This is to improve the driving efficiency of the drive source. In fixed-step control, if the rotational load on the worm gear is large, it may impair the driving efficiency of the drive source. For example, in the recording device 11, when the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2, the driving efficiency of the first drive source 32A may be impaired. Furthermore, for example, when the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second opposite direction D4, the driving efficiency of the second drive source 32B may be impaired. In this respect, in this embodiment, it is configured such that when the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2, the rotational load on the first worm gear 35A is reduced by the first weak limiting part 46A. As a result, when the recording unit 21 moves from the recording position P1 or the maintenance position P2 to the avoidance position P3, the driving efficiency of the first drive source 32A is improved. Furthermore, it is configured such that when the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second opposite direction D4, the rotational load on the second worm gear 35B is reduced by the second weak limiting part 46B. As a result, the drive efficiency of the second drive source 32B is improved when the maintenance unit 23 moves from the standby position Q1 to the contact position Q2.

[0104] In this embodiment, the control unit 28 performs load control when the recording unit 21 moves in the first predetermined direction D1. The control unit 28 performs fixed-step control when the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2. The control unit 28 performs fixed-step control in both cases: when the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second predetermined direction D3 and when it moves in the second opposite direction D4. In the drive mechanism, load control and fixed-step control can be arbitrarily applied based on the object being moved, the direction of movement, etc.

[0105] <Effect>

[0106] Next, the effects of the above embodiments will be explained.

[0107] (1) In the drive mechanism, the coefficient of friction between the strong limiting part and the worm is greater than that between the weak limiting part and the worm. According to this structure, when the moving part moves in a predetermined direction, the rotational load on the worm relatively increases. When the moving part moves in the opposite direction, the rotational load on the worm relatively decreases. In this way, by using the strong and weak limiting parts, the rotational load on the worm can be varied depending on the direction of movement of the moving part.

[0108] (2) In the drive mechanism, the moving part that moves in a predetermined direction moves downward.

[0109] When the moving part moves in a predetermined direction, its acceleration tends to increase due to gravity. According to the above structure, since the rotational load on the worm is relatively increased by the strong limiting part, the possibility of the moving part's acceleration increasing is reduced.

[0110] (3) In the moving device, when the moving part is moved in a predetermined direction, the control unit 28 stops the moving part by stopping the drive source when the rotational load of the worm exceeds a threshold.

[0111] In load control, to stop the moving part immediately, it is preferable to make the rotational load of the worm gear greatly exceed a threshold when a load is generated on the moving part. According to the above structure, since the rotational load of the worm gear is pre-increased by the strong limiting part, it is easy to stop the moving part immediately based on the rotational load of the worm gear.

[0112] (4) In the mobile device, when the control unit 28 moves the mobile unit in the opposite direction, it stops the mobile unit by stopping the drive source when the amount of movement of the mobile unit exceeds a threshold.

[0113] In fixed-step control, to improve the driving efficiency of the drive source, it is preferable to reduce the rotational load on the worm. According to the above structure, since the rotational load on the worm is reduced by passing through a weak limiting part, the driving efficiency of the drive source is improved.

[0114] (5) In the recording device 11, the first predetermined direction D1 is the direction in which the recording unit 21 approaches the maintenance unit 23. The first opposite direction D2 is the direction in which the recording unit 21 moves away from the maintenance unit 23.

[0115] When the recording unit 21 is brought close to the maintenance unit 23, it is not preferable for the recording unit 21 to be too close to the maintenance unit 23. Furthermore, when the recording unit 21 is in contact with the maintenance unit 23, it is not preferable for the recording unit 21 to be in strong contact with the maintenance unit 23. According to the above structure, when the recording unit 21 is brought close to the maintenance unit 23, the rotational load of the first worm gear 35A is relatively increased by the first strong limiting part 45A. Therefore, the possibility of the recording unit 21 being too close to the maintenance unit 23 or the possibility of strong contact is reduced.

[0116] (6) The recording device 11 includes: a first drive mechanism 31A, which moves the recording unit 21 in a first predetermined direction D1 and a first opposite direction D2; and a second drive mechanism 31B, which moves the maintenance unit 23 in a second predetermined direction D3 and a second opposite direction D4.

[0117] According to the above structure, when the recording unit 21 moves in the first predetermined direction D1, the rotational load of the first worm 35A relatively increases. When the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2, the rotational load of the first worm 35A relatively decreases. When the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second predetermined direction D3, the rotational load of the second worm 35B relatively increases. When the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second opposite direction D4, the rotational load of the second worm 35B relatively decreases. In this way, by means of the strong limiting part and the weak limiting part, the rotational load of the first worm 35A and the rotational load of the second worm 35B can be made different depending on the direction of movement of the recording unit 21 and the maintenance unit 23.

[0118] (7) In the recording device 11, the first predetermined direction D1 and the second predetermined direction D3 are directions different from the vertical and horizontal directions. The first predetermined direction D1 is the direction in which the recording unit 21 contacts the maintenance unit 23. The first opposite direction D2 is the direction in which the recording unit 21 moves away from the maintenance unit 23. The second predetermined direction D3 is the direction in which the maintenance unit 23 moves away from the recording unit 21. The second opposite direction D4 is the direction in which the maintenance unit 23 moves closer to the recording unit 21. The recording unit 21, which moves in the first predetermined direction D1, moves downward. The maintenance unit 23, which moves in the second predetermined direction D3, moves downward.

[0119] In the above structure, when the recording unit 21 moves in the first predetermined direction D1, the acceleration of the recording unit 21 tends to increase. When the recording unit 21 moves in the first opposite direction D2, it is difficult to move due to gravity. When the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second predetermined direction D3, the acceleration of the maintenance unit 23 tends to increase. When the maintenance unit 23 moves in the second opposite direction D4, it is difficult to move due to gravity. In this respect, since the rotational load of the first worm 35A is relatively increased by the first strong limiting part 45A, the possibility of the acceleration of the recording unit 21 increasing is reduced. Since the rotational load of the first worm 35A is relatively decreased by the first weak limiting part 46A, the recording unit 21 becomes easier to move. Since the rotational load of the second worm 35B is relatively increased by the second strong limiting part 45B, the possibility of the acceleration of the maintenance unit 23 increasing is reduced. Because the rotational load on the second worm 35B is relatively reduced by the second weak limiting part 46B, the maintenance part 23 becomes easier to move.

[0120] <Change Example>

[0121] The above embodiments can be implemented by modifications as follows. The above embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other within a technically consistent scope.

[0122] The recording device 11 only needs to include at least one of the first drive mechanism 31A and the second drive mechanism 31B. For example, the recording device 11 may only have the first drive mechanism 31A. For example, the recording device 11 may only have the second drive mechanism 31B.

[0123] The recording device 11 only needs to have at least one of the first drive mechanism 31A and the second drive mechanism 31B. For example, the recording device 11 may only have the first drive mechanism 31A. For example, the recording device 11 may only have the second drive mechanism 31B.

[0124] The recording device 11 may also have a control unit 28 for each drive mechanism. For example, the recording device 11 may have a first control unit that controls the first drive mechanism 31A and a second control unit that controls the second drive mechanism 31B.

[0125] The control unit 28 can perform load control in both cases: when the moving part moves in a predetermined direction and when the moving part moves in the opposite direction. Through the strong limiting unit and the weak limiting unit, the braking force applied to the moving part can be different depending on the direction of movement of the moving part.

[0126] While the comparison of the strong and weak limiting parts in the above embodiments was based on the coefficient of dynamic friction, it can also be compared using the coefficient of static friction. Generally, the coefficient of static friction is greater than the coefficient of dynamic friction. When the moving part moves in a predetermined direction while the worm is in contact with the weak limiting part, static friction occurs between the worm and the weak limiting part. When the moving part moves in a predetermined direction and causes the worm to contact the strong limiting part, dynamic friction occurs between the worm and the strong limiting part. When the moving part moves in the opposite direction while the worm is in contact with the strong limiting part, static friction occurs between the worm and the strong limiting part. When the moving part moves in the opposite direction and causes the worm to contact the weak limiting part, dynamic friction occurs between the worm and the weak limiting part. Therefore, when static friction acts on the worm through the strong and weak limiting parts, the threshold of the rotational load can be set to the degree to which the worm can rotate.

[0127] The predetermined direction can also be the same as the vertical direction. The predetermined direction can also be the same as the horizontal direction.

[0128] The liquid ejected by the recording unit 21 is not limited to ink; for example, it can be a liquid in which functional material particles are dispersed or mixed. For example, the recording unit 21 can also eject a liquid containing materials such as electrode materials or pixel materials used in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays, electroluminescent displays, and surface-emitting displays in a dispersed or dissolved form.

[0129] <Technical Ideas>

[0130] The following describes the technical ideas and their effects that can be grasped from the above embodiments and modifications.

[0131] (A) A drive mechanism for moving a moving part in a predetermined direction and in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction, the drive mechanism comprising: a worm gear connected to a drive source and rotating to move the moving part; a worm wheel meshing with the worm gear; and a retaining part for retaining the worm gear, the retaining part having a strong limiting part and a weak limiting part, the strong limiting part contacting the worm gear when the moving part moves in the predetermined direction, and the weak limiting part contacting the worm gear when the moving part moves in the opposite direction, wherein the coefficient of friction between the strong limiting part and the worm gear is greater than the coefficient of friction between the weak limiting part and the worm gear.

[0132] According to the above structure, when the moving part moves in a predetermined direction, the rotational load of the worm relatively increases. When the moving part moves in the opposite direction, the rotational load of the worm relatively decreases. In this way, by using the strong and weak limiting parts, the rotational load of the worm can be made different depending on the direction of movement of the moving part. For example, when the moving part moves downward, since the acceleration of the moving part is more likely to increase due to gravity, it is preferable to increase the rotational load of the worm. For example, when the moving part moves upward, it is preferable to reduce the rotational load of the worm to overcome gravity.

[0133] (B) The above-mentioned drive mechanism can also be adopted in the following manner, that is, when the moving part moves in the predetermined direction, the drive source stops the moving part by taking the rotational load of the worm exceeding the threshold as the trigger.

[0134] The situation where the moving part is stopped based on the rotational load of the worm gear is called load control. In load control, in order to stop the moving part immediately, it is preferable that when a load is generated on the moving part, the rotational load of the worm gear greatly exceeds a threshold. According to the above structure, since the rotational load of the worm gear is pre-increased by the forced limiting part, it is easy to stop the moving part immediately based on the rotational load of the worm gear.

[0135] (C) The above-mentioned drive mechanism can also be adopted in the following manner, that is, when the moving part moves in the opposite direction, the moving part is stopped by the drive source when the amount of movement of the moving part exceeds the threshold, thereby stopping the moving part.

[0136] The situation where the moving part stops based on the amount of movement of the moving part is called fixed step control. In fixed step control, in order to improve the driving efficiency of the drive source, it is preferable to reduce the rotational load on the worm. According to the above structure, since the rotational load on the worm is reduced by the weak limiting part, the driving efficiency of the drive source is improved.

[0137] (D) In ​​the above-mentioned drive mechanism, the moving part that moves in the predetermined direction can also be moved downward.

[0138] When the moving part moves in a predetermined direction, its acceleration tends to increase due to gravity. According to the above structure, since the rotational load on the worm is relatively increased by the forced limiting part, the possibility of the moving part's acceleration increasing is reduced.

[0139] (E) A mobile device comprising: the aforementioned drive mechanism; the moving part; and a control unit that controls the drive mechanism, wherein when the moving part is moved in the predetermined direction, the control unit stops the moving part by stopping the drive source when the rotational load of the worm exceeds the threshold. According to the above structure, the same effect as the aforementioned drive mechanism can be obtained.

[0140] (F) A mobile device may also include: the aforementioned drive mechanism; the moving part; and a control unit that controls the drive mechanism, wherein when the moving part moves in the opposite direction, the control unit stops the moving part by stopping the drive source when the amount of movement of the moving part exceeds the threshold. According to the above structure, the same effect as the aforementioned drive mechanism can be obtained.

[0141] (G) A recording device comprising: the drive mechanism described above; and the moving part, wherein the moving part is a recording part for recording on a medium.

[0142] According to the above structure, in a recording device in which the recording unit is moved by a drive mechanism, the same effect as the drive mechanism described above can be obtained.

[0143] (H) The above-described recording device may also include a maintenance unit that performs maintenance on the recording unit, which records on the medium by spraying liquid onto the medium. The predetermined direction is a direction that brings the recording unit closer to the maintenance unit, and the opposite direction is a direction that moves the recording unit away from the maintenance unit.

[0144] When the recording section is placed close to the maintenance section, it is undesirable for the recording section to be too close to the maintenance section. Furthermore, when the recording section is in contact with the maintenance section, it is undesirable for the recording section to be in strong contact with the maintenance section. According to the above structure, when the recording section is placed close to the maintenance section, the rotational load on the worm gear is relatively increased due to the forced restraint section, thus reducing the possibility of the recording section and maintenance section being too close or in strong contact.

[0145] (I) The above-mentioned recording device may also include a control unit, which controls the drive mechanism and the recording unit.

[0146] Based on the above structure, the same effect as the above-described drive mechanism can be achieved.

[0147] (J) A recording apparatus includes: the aforementioned drive mechanism; a recording section that records by spraying liquid onto a medium; and a moving section that serves as a maintenance section for maintaining the recording section. According to the above structure, in a recording apparatus where the maintenance section is moved by the drive mechanism, the same effect as the aforementioned drive mechanism can be achieved.

[0148] (K) The recording device described above may also include a control unit that controls the drive mechanism and the recording unit.

[0149] Based on the above structure, the same effect as the above-described drive mechanism can be achieved.

[0150] (L) A recording device comprising: a recording section for recording by spraying liquid onto a medium; a maintenance section for maintaining the recording section; a first drive mechanism for moving the recording section in a first predetermined direction and a first opposite direction; a second drive mechanism for moving the maintenance section in a second predetermined direction and a second opposite direction, the second predetermined direction being a direction different from the first predetermined direction and the first opposite direction, the first drive mechanism comprising: a first worm gear connected to a first drive source and moving the recording section by rotating it; a first worm wheel meshing with the first worm gear; a first holding section for holding the first worm gear, the first holding section comprising: a first strong limiting section that, when the recording section moves in the first predetermined direction, engages with the first worm gear... The second drive mechanism includes: a second worm gear connected to a second drive source, which moves the maintenance unit by rotation; a second worm wheel meshing with the second worm gear; and a second holding portion holding the second worm gear. The second holding portion includes: a second strong limiting portion that contacts the second worm gear when the maintenance unit moves in a second predetermined direction; and a second weak limiting portion that contacts the second worm gear when the maintenance unit moves in a second opposite direction. The coefficient of friction between the first strong limiting portion and the first worm gear is greater than the coefficient of friction between the first weak limiting portion and the first worm gear, and the coefficient of friction between the second strong limiting portion and the second worm gear is greater than the coefficient of friction between the second weak limiting portion and the second worm gear.

[0151] According to the above structure, when the recording unit moves in a first predetermined direction, the rotational load of the first worm relatively increases. When the recording unit moves in a first opposite direction, the rotational load of the first worm relatively decreases. When the maintenance unit moves in a second predetermined direction, the rotational load of the second worm relatively increases. When the maintenance unit moves in a second opposite direction, the rotational load of the second worm relatively decreases. In this way, by using the strong limiting part and the weak limiting part, the rotational loads of the first worm and the second worm can be made different depending on the direction of movement of the recording unit and the maintenance unit.

[0152] (M) In the above-described recording device, the following method may also be adopted, namely, the first predetermined direction and the second predetermined direction are directions different from the vertical direction and the horizontal direction, the first predetermined direction is the direction that brings the recording part closer to the maintenance part, the first opposite direction is the direction that moves the recording part away from the maintenance part, the second predetermined direction is the direction that moves the maintenance part away from the recording part, the second opposite direction is the direction that brings the maintenance part closer to the recording part, the recording part that moves in the first predetermined direction moves downward, and the maintenance part that moves in the second predetermined direction moves downward.

[0153] In the above structure, when the recording unit moves in the first predetermined direction, the acceleration of the recording unit tends to increase. When the recording unit moves in the first opposite direction, it becomes difficult to move due to gravity. When the maintenance unit moves in the second predetermined direction, the acceleration of the maintenance unit tends to increase. When the maintenance unit moves in the second opposite direction, it becomes difficult to move due to gravity. In this respect, because the rotational load of the first worm is relatively increased by the first strong limiting part, the possibility of the acceleration of the recording unit increasing is reduced. Because the rotational load of the first worm is relatively decreased by the first weak limiting part, the recording unit becomes easier to move. Because the rotational load of the second worm is relatively increased by the second strong limiting part, the possibility of the acceleration of the maintenance unit increasing is reduced. Because the rotational load of the second worm is relatively decreased by the second weak limiting part, the maintenance unit becomes easier to move.

[0154] Symbol Explanation

[0155] 11…Recording device; 12…Basket; 13…Storage section; 14…Conveying path; 15…Conveying section; 16…Conveyor belt; 17…First pulley; 18…Second pulley; 19…Stacker; 21…Recording section; 22…Nozzle; 23…Maintenance section; 24…Contact section; 25…Support section; 26…Pressing section; 28…Control section; 31A…First drive mechanism; 31B…Second drive mechanism; 32A…First drive source; 32B…Second drive source; 33A…First output shaft; 33B…Second output shaft; 34A…First worm gear mechanism; 34B…Second worm gear mechanism; 35A…First worm; 35B…Second worm; 36A…First worm wheel; 36B…Second worm wheel; 37A…First drive gear Wheel; 37B…Second drive gear; 38A…First rack; 38B…Second rack; 41A…First retaining part; 41B…Second retaining part; 42A…First base end part; 42B…Second base end part; 43A…First top end part; 43B…Second top end part; 44A…First connecting part; 44B…Second connecting part; 45A…First strong limiting part; 45B…Second strong limiting part; 46A…First weak limiting part; 46B…Second weak limiting part; 99…Medium; D1…First predetermined direction; D2…First opposite direction; D3…Second predetermined direction; D4…Second opposite direction; P1…Recording position; P2…Maintenance position; P3…Avoidance position; Q1…Standby position; Q2…Contact position.

Claims

1. A drive mechanism characterized by, The drive mechanism is configured to move the moving section in a predetermined direction and in an opposite direction opposite to the predetermined direction, and includes: a worm connected to a drive source and configured to move the moving section by rotating; a worm wheel engaged with the worm; a holding section configured to hold the worm, the holding section has a strong restriction section and a weak restriction section, the strong restriction section is in contact with the worm when the moving section moves in the predetermined direction, and the weak restriction section is in contact with the worm when the moving section moves in the opposite direction, a friction coefficient of the strong restriction section with respect to the worm is greater than a friction coefficient of the weak restriction section with respect to the worm, the worm is separated from the weak restriction section during a period in which the worm is in contact with the strong restriction section.

2. The drive mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the moving section is stopped by stopping the drive source when a rotational load of the worm exceeds a threshold value when the moving section moves in the predetermined direction.

3. The drive mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the moving section is stopped by stopping the drive source when a moving amount of the moving section exceeds a threshold value when the moving section moves in the opposite direction.

4. The drive mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the moving section moves downward when the moving section moves in the predetermined direction.

5. A mobile device, characterized by 5. A recording apparatus comprising: the drive mechanism according to claim 2; the moving section; a control section configured to control the drive mechanism, the control section stops the moving section by stopping the drive source when the rotational load of the worm exceeds the threshold value when the moving section moves in the predetermined direction.

6. A mobile device, characterized by 6. A recording apparatus comprising: the drive mechanism according to claim 3; the moving section; a control section configured to control the drive mechanism, the control section stops the moving section by stopping the drive source when the moving amount of the moving section exceeds the threshold value when the moving section moves in the opposite direction.

7. A recording apparatus characterized by comprising:

7. A recording apparatus comprising: the drive mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4; the moving section, the moving section is a recording section configured to record on a medium.

8. The recording apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the recording apparatus includes a maintenance section configured to perform maintenance of the recording section, the recording section is configured to record on the medium by ejecting a liquid toward the medium, the predetermined direction is a direction in which the recording section approaches the maintenance section, the opposite direction is a direction in which the recording section moves away from the maintenance section.

9. The recording apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the recording apparatus further includes a control section configured to control the drive mechanism and the recording section.

10. A recording apparatus characterized by comprising:

10. A recording apparatus comprising: the drive mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4; a recording section configured to record by ejecting a liquid toward a medium; the moving section, The moving section is a maintenance section that performs maintenance on the recording section.

11. The recording apparatus according to claim 10, wherein Further comprising a control section that controls the driving mechanism and the recording section.

12. A recording apparatus characterized by comprising: Further comprising: a recording section that performs recording by ejecting liquid onto a medium; a maintenance section that performs maintenance on the recording section; a first driving mechanism that moves the recording section in a first predetermined direction and a first opposite direction opposite to the first predetermined direction; a second driving mechanism that moves the maintenance section in a second predetermined direction and a second opposite direction opposite to the second predetermined direction, the second predetermined direction is different from the first predetermined direction and the first opposite direction, the first driving mechanism has: a first worm connected to a first driving source and moves the recording section by rotating; a first worm wheel engaged with the first worm; a first holding section that holds the first worm, the first holding section has: a first strong restriction section that contacts the first worm when the recording section moves in the first predetermined direction; a first weak restriction section that contacts the first worm when the recording section moves in the first opposite direction, the second driving mechanism has: a second worm connected to a second driving source and moves the maintenance section by rotating; a second worm wheel engaged with the second worm; a second holding section that holds the second worm, the second holding section has: a second strong restriction section that contacts the second worm when the maintenance section moves in the second predetermined direction; a second weak restriction section that contacts the second worm when the maintenance section moves in the second opposite direction, a friction coefficient of the first strong restriction section and the first worm is greater than a friction coefficient of the first weak restriction section and the first worm, a friction coefficient of the second strong restriction section and the second worm is greater than a friction coefficient of the second weak restriction section and the second worm.

13. The recording apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the first predetermined direction and the second predetermined direction are different from a vertical direction and a horizontal direction, the first predetermined direction is a direction in which the recording section approaches the maintenance section, the first opposite direction is a direction in which the recording section moves away from the maintenance section, the second predetermined direction is a direction in which the maintenance section moves away from the recording section, the second opposite direction is a direction in which the maintenance section approaches the recording section, the recording section moving in the first predetermined direction moves downward, the maintenance section moving in the second predetermined direction moves downward.

14. A drive mechanism characterized by, It is a driving mechanism that moves a moving section in a predetermined direction and an opposite direction opposite to the predetermined direction, and the driving mechanism has: a worm connected to a driving source and moves the moving section by rotating; a worm wheel engaged with the worm; a first holding section that holds the first worm, the first holding section has: a first strong restriction section that contacts the first worm when the recording section moves in the first predetermined direction; a first weak restriction section that contacts the first worm when the recording section moves in the first opposite direction, the second driving mechanism has: a second worm connected to a second driving source and moves the maintenance section by rotating; a second worm wheel engaged with the second worm; a second holding section that holds the second worm, the second holding section has: a second strong restriction section that contacts the second worm when the maintenance section moves in the second predetermined direction; a second weak restriction section that contacts the second worm when the maintenance section moves in the second opposite direction, a friction coefficient of the first strong restriction section and the first worm is greater than a friction coefficient of the first weak restriction section and the first worm, a friction coefficient of the second strong restriction section and the second worm is greater than a friction coefficient of the second weak restriction section and the second worm. a holding portion that holds the worm, the holding portion has a strong restriction portion that comes into contact with the worm when the moving portion moves in the predetermined direction, and a weak restriction portion that comes into contact with the worm when the moving portion moves in the opposite direction, a friction coefficient of the strong restriction portion with respect to the worm is greater than a friction coefficient of the weak restriction portion with respect to the worm, the moving portion that moves in the predetermined direction moves downward.

15. A recording apparatus, characterized by comprising: a moving portion and a drive mechanism that moves the moving portion in a predetermined direction and an opposite direction opposite to the predetermined direction, the drive mechanism includes: a worm that is connected to a drive source and moves the moving portion by rotating; a worm wheel that is engaged with the worm; a holding portion that holds the worm, the holding portion has a strong restriction portion that comes into contact with the worm when the moving portion moves in the predetermined direction, and a weak restriction portion that comes into contact with the worm when the moving portion moves in the opposite direction, a friction coefficient of the strong restriction portion with respect to the worm is greater than a friction coefficient of the weak restriction portion with respect to the worm, the moving portion is a recording portion that records on a medium.

16. A recording apparatus characterized by comprising: a moving portion, a recording portion that records by ejecting a liquid to a medium, and a drive mechanism that moves the moving portion in a predetermined direction and an opposite direction opposite to the predetermined direction, the drive mechanism includes: a worm that is connected to a drive source and moves the moving portion by rotating; a worm wheel that is engaged with the worm; a holding portion that holds the worm, the holding portion has a strong restriction portion that comes into contact with the worm when the moving portion moves in the predetermined direction, and a weak restriction portion that comes into contact with the worm when the moving portion moves in the opposite direction, a friction coefficient of the strong restriction portion with respect to the worm is greater than a friction coefficient of the weak restriction portion with respect to the worm, the moving portion is a maintenance portion that performs maintenance on the recording portion.

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