Inkjet recording apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides an inkjet recording device. The inkjet recording device includes a recording head, a waste ink container, and a suction mechanism that suctions gas from the waste ink container. The waste ink container has a suction port connected to the suction mechanism, a first receiving port that receives ink, a porous absorption member, and a first air passage that is formed by a space in which the absorption member is not present and that connects the first receiving port and the suction port. The waste ink container also has a partition member that has a lower gas permeability than the absorption member. The partition member is disposed on a path that reaches the suction port from the first receiving port without passing through the first air passage and through an interior of the absorption member.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Existing inkjet recording devices include a waste ink container that stores ink intended for disposal. In the prior art, a porous absorbent component is disposed within the waste ink container to absorb the ink. Summary of the Invention

[0003] (a) Technical problems to be solved

[0004] For example, consider the following scenario: a suction mechanism is connected to a waste ink container, and ink is drawn from the recording head into the waste ink container. In this case, if the absorber inside the waste ink container is porous, the suction airflow may pass through the interior of the absorber (the fine pores present in the absorber from the raw material).

[0005] As a result, the designed suction force may not be achieved, leading to insufficient ink suction. In this case, ink scatters inside the machine, increasing internal contamination.

[0006] The present invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide an inkjet recording device that can suppress insufficient ink extraction from the recording head to the waste ink container.

[0007] (II) Technical Solution

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the inkjet recording apparatus of the present invention comprises: a recording head that records images on a sheet by discharging ink; a waste ink container having an internal storage area for storing ink that, although discharged from the recording head, is not used in the recording of the image; and a suction mechanism that draws gas from the waste ink container. The waste ink container comprises: a suction port connected to the suction mechanism; a first receiving port for receiving ink discharged from the recording head; a porous absorption member disposed in the storage area for absorbing ink; and a first air passage formed by a space in the storage area where the absorption member is absent, connecting the first receiving port and the suction port, through which a suction airflow generated by the suction mechanism passes. The waste ink container also comprises a partition member with lower permeability than the absorption member. The partition member is disposed on a path from the first receiving port through the interior of the absorption member and to the suction port, bypassing the first air passage.

[0009] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0010] In the structure of this invention, insufficient ink extraction from the recording head to the waste ink container can be suppressed. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an inkjet recording apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a top view of the recording section of the inkjet recording apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of an inkjet recording apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a top view of the conveyor belt of the inkjet recording device according to the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the periphery of the conveyor belt of the inkjet recording device according to the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a perspective view schematically showing the periphery of the conveyor belt of the inkjet recording apparatus according to an embodiment (showing the state in which all waste ink containers are installed).

[0017] Figure 7 This is a perspective view schematically showing the periphery of the conveyor belt of the inkjet recording apparatus according to an embodiment (showing a state where a portion of the waste ink container has been removed).

[0018] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the storage area of ​​the waste ink container of the inkjet recording apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 Is along Figure 8 A schematic diagram corresponding to the cross section of line A-A.

[0020] Figure 10 It is used to explain from Figure 8 The diagram shows the suction airflow path in the waste ink container with the partition component omitted. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Hereinafter, an inkjet recording apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described using a printer that records (prints) images on a sheet material as the recording medium as an example. Paper is primarily used as the sheet material. Other sheet materials such as OHP sheets can also be used.

[0022] (The structure of a printer)

[0023] like Figure 1As shown, the printer 100 of this embodiment (equivalent to an "inkjet recording device") includes a first transport section 1 and a second transport section 2. The first transport section 1 feeds paper S disposed in the paper feed cassette CA and transports it toward the recording position. During a printing task of the printer 100, an image is recorded (printed) on the paper S passing through the recording position. The second transport section 2 transports the paper S after recording is completed. The second transport section 2 discharges the paper S after recording is completed onto the discharge tray ET.

[0024] The first conveying unit 1 includes multiple conveying roller components, including positioning roller pairs 11. Figure 1 In this drawing, only the positioning roller pair 11 among the multiple conveyor roller assemblies is labeled. The multiple conveyor roller assemblies each convey the sheet S by rotating. The positioning roller pair 11 comprises a pair of rollers that press against each other. A positioning gap is formed between these rollers. The sheet S supplied from the paper tray CA enters the positioning gap. The positioning roller pair 11, by rotating, conveys the sheet S entering the positioning gap toward the belt conveyor 3, which will be described later.

[0025] When the leading edge of the sheet S reaches the gap between the positioning rollers, the positioning roller pair 11 stops rotating. On the other hand, the conveying roller component, which is closer to the upstream side of the conveying direction of the sheet S than the positioning roller pair 11, rotates. This corrects the slant of the sheet S.

[0026] Printer 100 includes a belt conveyor unit 3. The belt conveyor unit 3 receives and conveys sheet S from the first conveyor unit 1. The belt conveyor unit 3 includes a conveyor belt 30. The conveyor belt 30 is annular and supported for rotation. In addition, the belt conveyor unit 3 includes multiple mounting rollers 301. The multiple mounting rollers 301 are supported for rotation. The conveyor belt 30 is mounted and rotated by the multiple mounting rollers 301. The sheet S conveyed from the first conveyor unit 1 reaches the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 30.

[0027] One of the multiple support rollers 301 is connected to a belt motor (not shown), transmitting the driving force of the belt motor and rotating. The rotation of the support roller 301 connected to the belt motor causes the conveyor belt 30 to rotate. At this time, the other support rollers 301 also rotate.

[0028] In addition, the conveyor section 3 includes a suction unit 300. The suction unit 300 is disposed on the inner circumferential side of the conveyor belt 30. The suction unit 300 suctions the sheet S on the outer circumferential surface of the conveyor belt 30.

[0029] Specifically, the conveyor belt 30 has multiple suction holes (not shown). These suction holes extend through the thickness of the conveyor belt 30. The suction unit 300 suctions the sheet S through these suction holes. This allows the sheet S to be adsorbed onto the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 30. The conveyor belt 30 holds the sheet S adsorbed on its outer peripheral surface and rotates. As a result, the sheet S is conveyed. That is, the conveyor belt 30 adsorbs and conveys the sheet S onto its outer peripheral surface.

[0030] The printer 100 includes a recording unit 4. The recording unit 4 is arranged vertically opposite the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 30. During the conveying of the sheet S, the sheet S on the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 30 and the recording unit 4 are positioned vertically at a distance from each other. Thus, during the conveying of the sheet S, the sheet S passes between the nozzle surface of the recording head 40 (described later) and the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 30. That is, the area between the nozzle surface of the recording head 40 and the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 30 becomes part of the conveying path of the sheet S.

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown, the recording unit 4 has four rows 41 corresponding to the colors cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, respectively. Figure 2 In the diagram, the reference numeral "C" is placed on the first line of the blue section (41), "M" on the first line of the magenta section (41), "Y" on the first line of the yellow section (41), and "K" on the first line of the black section (41) to distinguish them. This will be used for reference in the following explanations. Figure 5 The same applies to [the other party].

[0032] Each color row header 41 contains multiple (e.g., three) recording heads 40. For example, the multiple recording heads 40 of each color are arranged in an alternating pattern in a direction orthogonal to the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 30 conveying the sheet S. In the following description, the direction orthogonal to the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 30 conveying the sheet S will be referred to simply as the width direction.

[0033] Each recording head 40 is spaced apart vertically relative to the outer circumferential surface of the conveyor belt 30. In other words, each recording head 40 is positioned opposite the sheet S conveyed by the conveyor belt 30 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the conveyor belt 30 adsorbs and conveys the sheet S below each recording head 40. The vertical direction is orthogonal to the conveying direction and width direction of the conveyor belt 30 conveying the sheet S.

[0034] Each recording head 40 has a surface facing the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 30 in the vertical direction, serving as a nozzle surface. Each recording head 40's nozzle surface has multiple nozzles 4N. The multiple nozzles 4N of each recording head 40 discharge ink of the corresponding color downwards. For example, the number of nozzles 4N in each recording head 40 is the same. The multiple nozzles 4N of each recording head 40 are arranged along the width direction of the conveyor belt 30. Figure 2In the diagram, nozzles 4N are indicated by dashed lines. In reality, numerous nozzles 4N are installed in each recording head 40. For convenience, only a portion of the nozzles 4N are labeled with the reference numerals.

[0035] Each recording head 40, based on image data to be recorded on the sheet S, discharges ink from the nozzle 4N toward the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 30 during a printing task. The ink discharged from each recording head 40 adheres to the sheet S. Thus, an image can be recorded on the sheet S. In other words, the area between each recording head 40 and the conveyor belt 30 is a recording position where image recording onto the sheet S is performed.

[0036] Here, in the multiple nozzles 4N, the viscosity of the residual ink in the nozzles 4N that discharge ink less frequently increases over time. This results in clogging and reduced image quality. To suppress this adverse condition, each recording head 40 undergoes a rinsing process. During the rinsing process of each recording head 40, the residual ink in the nozzles 4N is discharged. This suppresses clogging. The rinsing process will be described in detail later.

[0037] return Figure 1 The printer 100 includes a drying unit 51 and a wrinkle remover 52. The drying unit 51 feeds a sheet S to the wrinkle remover 52 and dries the ink adhering to the sheet S during transport. The wrinkle remover 52 corrects wrinkles on the sheet S. The wrinkle remover 52 then feeds the wrinkle-corrected sheet S to the second transport section 2.

[0038] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, the printer 100 includes a control unit 6. The control unit 6 includes processing circuitry such as a CPU and an ASIC. The control unit 6 controls the printing task. In other words, the control unit 6 controls the operation of each of the first transport unit 1, the second transport unit 2, the tape transport unit 3, the recording unit 4, the drying unit 51, and the wrinkle remover 52. Furthermore, the control unit 6 controls the transport of the sheet S and the ink discharge from each recording head 40. Additionally, the control unit 6 controls the rinsing process of each recording head 40.

[0039] A positioning sensor 61, a sheet sensor 62, and a belt sensor 63 are connected to the control unit 6. The control unit 6 controls the conveying of the sheet S and the recording of images onto the sheet S based on the outputs of the positioning sensor 61, the sheet sensor 62, and the belt sensor 63.

[0040] The positioning sensor 61 uses a position closer to the upstream side of the sheet S in the conveying direction than the positioning roller gap as the detection position. The positioning sensor 61 is, for example, a reflective or transmissive optical sensor. The positioning sensor 61 changes its output value based on whether the sheet S is present at the corresponding detection position.

[0041] The control unit 6 detects, based on the output value of the positioning sensor 61, the arrival of the front end and the passage of the rear end of the sheet S at the detection position of the positioning sensor 61. In other words, the control unit 6 detects, based on the output value of the positioning sensor 61, the arrival of the front end and the passage of the rear end of the sheet S in the positioning roller gap. The control unit 6 measures the start time of conveying the sheet S using the positioning roller pair 11 (the start time of rotation of the positioning roller pair 11) based on the elapsed time from the detection position of the positioning sensor 61 where the front end of the sheet S is detected.

[0042] The sheet sensor 62 uses the position between the recording position of the upstreammost head 41 in the conveying direction of the sheet S and the positioning roller gap as the detection position. The sheet sensor 62 changes its output value according to whether the sheet S is present at the corresponding detection position. A CIS (Contact Image Sensor) can be used as the sheet sensor 62. Alternatively, a reflective or transmissive optical sensor can also be used as the sheet sensor 62. For example, a CIS can be used as the sheet sensor 62.

[0043] The control unit 6 detects, based on the output value of the sheet sensor 62, the arrival of the front end and the passage of the rear end of the sheet S at the detection position of the sheet sensor 62. The control unit 6 also measures, based on the output value of the sheet sensor 62, the time at which ink is discharged from the sheet S conveyed by the conveyor belt 30. Alternatively, the time at which ink is discharged from the sheet S conveyed by the conveyor belt 30 can be measured based on the elapsed time since the start of conveying the sheet S using the positioning roller pair 11.

[0044] Furthermore, the control unit 6 measures the paper passage time from the front end of the sheet S to the detection position of the sheet sensor 62 until the rear end of the same sheet S passes the detection position of the sheet sensor 62. The paper passage time at the detection position of the sheet sensor 62 varies according to the dimension of the sheet S in the transport direction. Therefore, the control unit 6 identifies the dimension of the sheet S transported by the conveyor belt 30 in the transport direction based on the paper passage time. Thus, even if the sheet S transported by the conveyor belt 30 is of an amorphous size, the control unit 6 can identify the dimension of the sheet S in the transport direction.

[0045] The belt sensor 63 is a sensor used to detect a predetermined reference position (original position) of the conveyor belt 30. For example, a predetermined mark is provided at the reference position of the conveyor belt 30. Therefore, the reference position of the conveyor belt 30 can be detected based on the output value of the belt sensor 63. A CIS (Continuous Insulation Sensor) can be used as the belt sensor 63. Alternatively, a transmissive or reflective optical sensor can also be used as the belt sensor 63.

[0046] The control unit 6 detects the reference position of the conveyor belt 30 based on the output value of the sensor 63. In other words, the control unit 6 detects the position of the rinsing area 31 (rinsing hole 30a) described later based on the output value of the sensor 63.

[0047] Additionally, the printer 100 includes a storage unit 601. The storage unit 601 includes storage devices such as ROM and RAM. The storage unit 601 is connected to the control unit 6. The control unit 6 reads information from the storage unit 601. Furthermore, the control unit 6 writes information to the storage unit 601.

[0048] Printer 100 includes an operation unit 602. The operation unit 602 includes, for example, a touchscreen. The touchscreen displays software buttons and messages, and receives touch operations from the user. Additionally, the operation unit also has hardware buttons for receiving settings and instructions. The operation unit 602 is connected to a control unit 6. The control unit 6 controls the display operations of the operation unit 602 (touchscreen). Furthermore, the control unit 6 detects operations performed on the operation unit 602.

[0049] Printer 100 includes a communication unit 603. The communication unit 603 includes communication circuitry, etc. The communication unit 603 is connected to a user terminal PC via a network NT. The user terminal PC is an information processing device such as a personal computer. Control unit 6 communicates with the user terminal PC using the communication unit 603. For example, the user terminal PC sends printing data (PDL data, etc.) to printer 100, including image data to be recorded on the sheet S in the printing task. In other words, the user terminal PC sends a printing task execution request to printer 100. The printing data for the printing task includes the size of the sheet S used in the printing task, and various printing-related setting data.

[0050] (Overview of the rinsing process)

[0051] like Figure 4 As shown, the conveyor belt 30 has a washing area 31. Figure 4 In the diagram, the rinsing area 31 is surrounded by a dashed line. The rinsing area 31 is the area containing the through hole, i.e., the rinsing hole 30a, that extends through the conveyor belt 30 in the thickness direction. Multiple rinsing areas 31 are provided on the conveyor belt 30. The multiple rinsing areas 31 are arranged at predetermined intervals between each other in the rotation direction of the conveyor belt 30 (the conveying direction of the sheet S).

[0052] Each rinsing zone 31 includes a plurality of rinsing holes 30a. The opening shape of the rinsing holes 30a (the shape when viewed from the thickness direction of the conveyor belt 30) is not particularly limited. The shape of the rinsing holes 30a can be circular, elliptical, oval, or rectangular. As the conveyor belt 30 rotates, the plurality of nozzles 4N are respectively positioned vertically opposite at least one of the rinsing holes 30a.

[0053] As part of the washing process, ink is discharged from the nozzles 4N of each recording head 40. During the washing process, ink is discharged from each nozzle 4N at a time when it is aligned vertically with the washing hole 30a. The ink then passes through the washing hole 30a. Therefore, even when the washing process is performed, no ink adheres to the conveyor belt 30. In the following description, the ink discharged from each nozzle 4N during the washing process will be referred to as washing ink, distinguishing it from the ink used for image recording on the sheet S. The ink not used for image recording on the sheet S is washing ink.

[0054] During the execution of the printing task, the control unit 6 controls the rinsing process. Specifically, the control unit 6 measures the rinsing zone 31 appearing at a constant period between the sheets (the interval between the rear end of the preceding sheet S and the front end of the following sheet S): the start time of conveying the sheet S from the positioning roller pair 11 to the conveyor belt 30. Furthermore, the control unit 6 discharges ink from each nozzle 4N at a time when it does not overlap with the sheet S and is positioned vertically opposite the rinsing hole 30a. In other words, the control unit 6 discharges ink from each nozzle 4N at a time different from the time of image recording onto the sheet S.

[0055] (Storage of ink rinser)

[0056] The flushing ink is stored in the main body of the printer 100 (hereinafter referred to as the device body). Furthermore, when the amount of flushing ink stored reaches a certain level, the flushing ink is discarded.

[0057] Specifically, such as Figures 5-9 As shown, the printer 100 includes a waste ink container 7 and a suction mechanism 10 connected to the waste ink container 7. The suction mechanism 10 draws gas from the waste ink container 7, preventing ink mist present in the waste ink container 7 from escaping outside the container. Furthermore, during the rinsing process, rinsing ink is drawn through the rinsing holes 30a of the conveyor belt 30 by the suction mechanism 10, and the rinsing ink reaches the waste ink container 7. The waste ink container 7 has an internal storage area where it stores the rinsing ink.

[0058] There are multiple waste ink containers 7. One waste ink container 7 is allocated for each line header 41. In other words, one waste ink container 7 is allocated for each of the colors cyan, magenta, yellow, and black.

[0059] Each waste ink container 7 is installed on the inner circumference of the conveyor belt 30 within the main body of the device. Each waste ink container 7, with its installation in the main body, is positioned below the recording head 40 that discharges the corresponding color ink. Each waste ink container 7 is positioned opposite the conveyor belt 30 with respect to the nozzle surface of the corresponding recording head 40. Thus, when rinsing is performed, rinsing ink passes through the rinsing orifice 30a and is stored in the storage area of ​​each waste ink container 7.

[0060] Each waste ink container 7 is detachably mounted to the main body of the device. Each waste ink container 7 can be removed from the main body of the device by pulling it forward (in the width direction) from the front of the printer 100. When the amount of ink stored in any waste ink container 7 reaches a certain level, that waste ink container 7 is removed from the main body and replaced.

[0061] The suction mechanism 10 generates a suction airflow. One suction mechanism 10 is assigned to each waste ink container 7. Each suction mechanism 10 is connected to its corresponding waste ink container 7 and draws flushing ink from the corresponding recording head 40 toward the storage area of ​​the waste ink container 7. By utilizing the function of each suction mechanism 10 to draw flushing ink, internal contamination caused by flushing ink can be suppressed. Figure 5 In the diagram, black arrows indicate the suction direction for rinsing ink. Hollow arrows indicate the suction direction of suction unit 300.

[0062] In addition, each waste ink container 7 stores: rinsing ink, and ink intended for disposal. Ink intended for disposal is ink that, although discharged from the recording head 40, is not used in image recording. That is, each waste ink container 7 stores: ink not used for image recording. In the following description, for convenience, the intended waste ink, including rinsing ink, will be collectively referred to as rinsing ink.

[0063] (Structure of waste ink container)

[0064] The following is for reference Figures 8-10 The structure of one waste ink container 7 will be described here. The structures of all waste ink containers 7 are identical. Therefore, the structural descriptions of other waste ink containers 7 will be omitted, and the following descriptions will be used instead.

[0065] Furthermore, the direction parallel to the conveying direction of the sheet S conveyed by the conveyor belt 30 is equivalent to the "first direction". The width direction of the conveyor belt 30 is equivalent to the "second direction". In the following description, for convenience, the direction parallel to the conveying direction of the sheet S conveyed by the conveyor belt 30 is labeled with reference numeral D1 and referred to as the first direction D1. The width direction of the conveyor belt 30 is labeled with reference numeral D2 and referred to as the second direction D2.

[0066] The waste ink container 7 is a generally rectangular container. The waste ink container 7 is, for example, made of sheet metal. The waste ink container 7 has a top 7A and a bottom 7B opposite the top 7A in the vertical direction. Additionally, the waste ink container 7 has sidewall portions (reference numerals omitted) that surround the area between the top 7A and the bottom 7B from the side. The waste ink container 7 has an internal area surrounded by the top 7A, the bottom 7B, and the sidewall portions, which serves as a storage area for rinsing ink.

[0067] Waste ink container 7 has an absorbent component 8. The absorbent component 8 is disposed in the storage area of ​​waste ink container 7. The absorbent component 8 is a porous component that absorbs rinse ink. As a constituent material of the absorbent component 8, melamine sponge or the like can be used. The absorbent component 8 absorbs the rinse ink and retains the rinse ink inside it.

[0068] Here, the waste ink container 7 has a suction air passage 70 in the storage area through which a suction airflow generated by the suction mechanism 10 passes. The suction air passage 70 is formed by a space in the storage area of ​​the waste ink container 7 where the absorbent component 8 is not present (i.e., a gap existing in the storage area). For example, the suction air passage 70 is a space obtained by cutting off a portion of the absorbent component 8. In other words, the suction air passage 70 is a space surrounded by the absorbent component 8.

[0069] The top 7A functions as an ink receiving section for receiving the wash ink drawn by the suction mechanism 10. Specifically, the top 7A has a receiving opening 710 that extends in a rectangular shape in the vertical direction. Since the receiving opening 710 opens in the upward direction, the opening direction of the receiving opening 710 will sometimes be referred to as vertical in the following text.

[0070] One receiving port 710 is assigned to each recording head 40. That is, there are three receiving ports 710. Each receiving port 710, holding the conveyor belt 30, is positioned vertically opposite the corresponding recording head 40.

[0071] Each receiving port 710 is an opening for recovering the flushing ink discharged from the corresponding recording head 40 to the storage area of ​​the waste ink container 7. The flushing ink from each recording head 40 passes through the corresponding receiving port 710 and reaches the storage area of ​​the waste ink container 7.

[0072] A cylindrical pipe 73 is provided in the storage area of ​​the waste ink container 7. The cylindrical axis of the pipe 73 extends parallel to the vertical direction. The pipe 73 has an opening at one end in the vertical direction, which serves as a suction port 730. That is, the waste ink container 7 has a suction port 730.

[0073] Furthermore, the bottom 7B has a through-hole (reference numerals omitted). The pipe 73 extends upwards in a cylindrical shape from the edge of the through-hole in the bottom 7B. The suction mechanism 10 is disposed outside the waste ink container 7 and connected to the through-hole in the bottom 7B. That is, the suction mechanism 10 is connected to the pipe 73. Alternatively, the pipe 73 can be a perforation formed by piercing a portion of the absorbent member 8 in the vertical direction, or it can be a tube disposed in the perforation.

[0074] The suction paths 70 are distributed to three receiving ports 710. That is, the waste ink container 7 has multiple suction paths 70. Each suction path 70 is connected to a corresponding receiving port 710 and a suction port 730. Figure 8 In the middle, the three receiving ports 710 are represented by dashed lines.

[0075] Furthermore, viewed from the top and bottom, one of the three receiving ports 710 is spaced apart from the suction port 730 in the first direction D1. This one receiving port 710 is equivalent to the "first receiving port", and in the following description, this one receiving port 710 is referred to as the first receiving port 711. The opening shape of the first receiving port 711 when viewed from the top and bottom is approximately rectangular with the second direction D2 as its length direction.

[0076] Viewed from above, two of the three receiving ports 710, different from the first receiving port 711, are spaced apart from the suction port 730 in the second direction D2. These two receiving ports 710 are respectively referred to as "second receiving ports" in the following description. The opening shape of each of the two second receiving ports 712, viewed from above, is approximately rectangular with the second direction D2 as its length.

[0077] Furthermore, the suction air passage 70 connected to the first receiving port 711 is equivalent to a "first air passage". In the following description, the suction air passage 70 connected to the first receiving port 711 will be referred to as the first air passage 71. One suction air passage 70 connected to one second receiving port 712 and another suction air passage 70 connected to another second receiving port 712 are respectively equivalent to "second air passages". In the following description, the suction air passage 70 connected to one second receiving port 712 and the suction air passage 70 connected to another second receiving port 712 will be referred to as second air passages 72.

[0078] Viewed from above, the two second receiving ports 712 are positioned symmetrically with respect to the center of the suction port 730. Furthermore, viewed from above, the two second air passages 72 are also symmetrically shaped with respect to the center of the suction port 730. That is, the two second air passages 72 have the same shape. On the other hand, the first air passage 71 has a different shape from the two second air passages 72.

[0079] To ensure that the suction force of each of the multiple receiving ports 710 is equal, the shape of the first air passage 71 needs to be appropriately designed. Therefore, the shape of the suction air passage 70 viewed from the top and bottom is as follows: Figure 8 The shape shown.

[0080] Specifically, the first air path 71 comprises one air path and another air path, formed by bypassing the shortest path. Viewed vertically, one air path of the first air path 71 extends from the first receiving port 711 towards the second direction D2, bypassing the shortest path, and ultimately connects to the suction port 730. Similarly, the other air path of the first air path 71 extends from the first receiving port 711 towards the other side of the second direction D2, bypassing the shortest path, and ultimately connects to the suction port 730. Furthermore, the shortest path from the first receiving port 711 to the suction port 730 is a straight path extending from the first receiving port 711 along the first direction D1 to the suction port 730.

[0081] Viewed from above, the two second air passages 72 extend from their respective second receiving ports 712 along the first direction D1, bend in the second direction D2, and extend towards the suction port 730, connecting with it. Furthermore, a portion of the second air passage 72 located on the side of the suction port 730 in the second direction D2 shares one air passage with the first air passage 71. A portion of the second air passage 72 located on the other side of the suction port 730 in the second direction D2 shares another air passage with the first air passage 71.

[0082] Here, when the space surrounded by the absorbent component 8 in the storage area of ​​the waste ink container 7 is used as the suction air path 70, since the absorbent component 8 is a porous component, the fine pores inside the absorbent component 8, present since the raw material, may become the path for the suction airflow. That is, the suction airflow may pass through a portion of the storage area of ​​the waste ink container 7 that is different from the suction air path 70. Assuming that a large amount of suction airflow passes through the interior of the absorbent component 8 (i.e., the fine pores of the absorbent component 8), even if the shape of the first air path 71 is appropriately designed, the difference in suction force between the first receiving port 711 and each of the second receiving ports 712 will increase.

[0083] Therefore, the waste ink container 7 also has a partition 9 that blocks the path of the suction airflow generated inside the absorption component 8. The partition 9 is less permeable than the absorption component 8. That is, comparing the absorption component 8 and the partition 9 of the same shape reveals that the resistance to gas flow through the absorption component 8 is lower. The partition 9 is a plate-shaped component made of resin. In other words, the partition 9 is essentially a component that does not absorb wash ink and does not allow suction airflow to pass through.

[0084] The raw material for the partition component 9 is not particularly limited, and a sheet-like component made of metal can also be used. Furthermore, the raw material for the partition component 9 only needs to have lower air permeability than the absorbent component 8. That is, as long as the air permeability is lower than the absorbent component 8, a porous component can also be used as the partition component 9.

[0085] A blocking component 9 is disposed in the storage area of ​​the waste ink container 7 along the path from the first receiving port 711 through the interior of the absorbent component 8 (i.e., the fine pores in the absorbent component 8 present from the raw material stage) to the suction port 730 without passing through the first air passage 71. In other words, the blocking component 9 is disposed at a position that blocks at least a portion of the path from the first receiving port 711 through the interior of the absorbent component 8 to the suction port 730 without passing through the first air passage 71. The blocking component 9 is disposed on the shortest path from the first receiving port 711 to the suction port 730 along the first direction D1. The blocking component 9 is used to block this shortest path and is embedded inside the absorbent component 8.

[0086] Without the partition component 9, such as Figure 10 As shown, the shortest path from the first receiving port 711 to the suction port 730 along the first direction D1 ( Figure 10 The path indicated by arrow R becomes the path of the suction airflow. On the other hand, when a partition component 9 is provided, such as Figure 8 As shown, it is possible to prevent the shortest path from the first receiving port 711 to the suction port 730 along the first direction D1 from becoming the path of the suction airflow.

[0087] In this embodiment, even when a porous component is used as the absorption component 8, the presence of the partition component 9 prevents significant differences in suction force between the multiple receiving ports 710. This suppresses large deviations in suction force between the multiple receiving ports 710. In other words, it prevents insufficient suction of ink rinsing from occurring in some of the multiple receiving ports 710. As a result, it suppresses internal contamination caused by ink rinsing.

[0088] Furthermore, in this structure, even when a porous component is used as the absorption component 8, the pressure loss of the first air passage 71 is the same as (or approximately the same as) the pressure loss of each of the second air passages 72. That is, it is not easy to generate a large difference between the suction forces of the multiple receiving ports 710.

[0089] Furthermore, by providing the partition component 9, the design of the suction air path 70 can disregard the passage of the suction airflow through the interior of the absorption component 8. This simplifies the design of the suction air path 70.

[0090] In addition, by using a component that does not substantially absorb the washing ink as the blocking component 9, it is possible to easily suppress the suction airflow through the interior of the absorption component 8.

[0091] Furthermore, viewed from above, the two second air passages 72 are symmetrical about the suction port 730 and have the same shape. Therefore, the difference in suction force between the second receiving ports 712 on one side and the second receiving ports 712 on the other side is small. Thus, the partition member 9 is only positioned on the shortest path from the first receiving port 711 along the first direction D1 to the suction port 730. This reduces the number of components (i.e., the cost of the partition member 9).

[0092] Furthermore, the partition member 9 has its thickness direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. Viewed from the vertical direction, the partition member 9 is positioned between the first receiving port 711 and the suction port 730 in the first direction D1. Additionally, viewed from the vertical direction, the partition member 9 extends along the second direction D2, which intersects the first direction D1. The angle formed by the direction separating the first receiving port 711 and the suction port 730 (the first direction D1) and the direction in which the partition member 9 extends (the second direction D2) is preferably 45 degrees or more, more preferably 60 degrees or more, and particularly preferably approximately a right angle.

[0093] Furthermore, the end 91a of the partition member 9 on one side of the second direction D2 when viewed from the top and bottom protrudes further to that side than the end of the first receiving port 711 on that side. In addition, the end 91b of the partition member 9 on the other side of the second direction D2 when viewed from the top and bottom protrudes further to that other side than the end of the first receiving port 711 on that other side.

[0094] Therefore, when viewed from above, the path of the suction airflow from the first receiving port 711, bypassing the partition member 9, to the suction port 730 can be suppressed. That is, the passage of the suction airflow through the interior of the absorption member 8 can be further suppressed.

[0095] Furthermore, the partition member 9 extends vertically to a region encompassing the first air passage 71. Additionally, the partition member 9 extends downwards from above the upper end of the first air passage 71, passing over its lower end. That is, the partition member 9 has an upper end portion 92a that is higher than the upper end of the first air passage 71, and a lower end portion 92b that is lower than the lower end of the first air passage 71 (see reference). Figure 9 The following is a detailed explanation.

[0096] like Figure 9 As shown, the absorption member 8 includes: a lower member 81 disposed abutting against the bottom surface of the waste ink container 7 (i.e., the surface facing upwards in the storage area); and an upper member 82 disposed above the lower member 81. Furthermore, a suction passage 70 is formed upwards from the lower member 81. In other words, the suction passage 70 is formed between the lower member 81 and the upper member 82.

[0097] Therefore, the upper end portion 92a of the partition member 9 is disposed inside the upper member 82, and the lower end portion 92b of the partition member 9 is disposed inside the lower member 81. In other words, the partition member 9 is erected from inside the lower member 81 and extends upward to the upper member 82. This results in the following state: the upper end portion 92a of the partition member 9 is positioned higher than the vertical position of the suction air passage 70, and the lower end portion 92b of the partition member 9 is positioned lower than the vertical position of the suction air passage 70.

[0098] This prevents the suction airflow from passing above and below the partition member 9. In other words, it further prevents the suction airflow from passing inside the absorption member 8.

[0099] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not limiting. The scope of the invention is defined not by the description of the embodiments above but by the scope of the claims, and includes all modifications within the same sense and scope as the claims.

Claims

1. An inkjet recording device, comprising: A recording head that records images on a sheet by ejecting ink; A waste ink container having an internal storage area for storing ink that, although discharged from the recording head, was not used in the recording of the image; and A suction mechanism that draws gas from the waste ink container. The waste ink container has: A suction port, which is connected to the suction mechanism; A first receiving port receives the ink discharged from the recording head; A porous absorbent component disposed in the storage area absorbs the ink; and The first airflow path is formed by the space in the storage area where the absorption component is absent, and connects the first receiving port to the suction port, allowing the suction airflow generated by the suction mechanism to pass through. The waste ink container also has a partition component with lower air permeability than the absorption component. The partition component is positioned on the path from the first receiving port, without passing through the first air passage, through the interior of the absorption component, and to the suction port. Viewed from the opening direction of the first receiving port, the first receiving port and the suction port are arranged at intervals from each other in the first direction. The partition component is positioned on the shortest path from the first receiving port to the suction port along the first direction. The first air path is formed by bypassing the shortest path.

2. The inkjet recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Viewed from the opening direction, the partition member is configured to extend along a second direction intersecting the first direction between the first receiving port and the first suction port. The end of the partition member on one side in the second direction, when viewed from the opening direction, protrudes further to that side than the end of the first receiving port on that side. The end of the partition member on the other side of the second direction when viewed from the opening direction protrudes further to the other side than the end of the first receiving port on the other side.

3. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The partition component extends in the opening direction of the first receiving port to a range that includes the first air passage.

4. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The waste ink container also has: Multiple second receiving ports for receiving the ink discharged from the recording head; as well as Multiple second air passages, formed by spaces in the storage area where the absorption component is absent, connect each of the multiple second receiving ports to the suction port, allowing suction airflow generated by the suction mechanism to pass through. The first air passage has a shape different from the plurality of second air passages. The plurality of second air passages have the same shape as each other.

5. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The waste ink container also has: The second receiving port receives the ink discharged from the recording head; as well as The second airflow path is formed by the space in the storage area where the absorption component is absent, and connects the second receiving port to the suction port, allowing the suction airflow generated by the suction mechanism to pass through. The first air passage has a different shape than the second air passage. The pressure loss of the first air path is the same as that of the second air path.

6. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The partition component is a component that does not absorb the ink.

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