Nozzle module, image forming apparatus, and liquid discharge apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a nozzle module, an image forming apparatus, and a liquid ejection device for suppressing uneven temperature of liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle. The nozzle module has at least two liquid nozzles (21A, 21B) for ejecting liquid, a storage section (24) for storing liquid, a heating element (26) for heating the liquid in the storage section (24), an inlet section (50) for introducing liquid into the storage section (24), a first outlet section (51A) for discharging liquid in the storage section (24) to one liquid nozzle (21A), and a second outlet section (51B) for discharging liquid in the storage section (24) to the other liquid nozzle (21B). The distance (L1) between the inlet section (50) and the first outlet section (51A) is shorter than the distance (L2) between the inlet section (50) and the second outlet section (51B). A wall member (27) is provided between the inlet section (50) and the first outlet section (51A).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a nozzle module, an image forming apparatus, and a liquid ejection apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] As an example of a liquid ejection device that ejects liquid, an inkjet image forming device is known that ejects liquid ink onto a sheet of paper or other material to form an image.

[0003] In such an inkjet image forming apparatus, in order to supply liquid from the storage section of the stored liquid to the liquid ejector head at an appropriate temperature, there is a configuration in which the liquid in the storage section is heated by a heating member such as a heater (for example, see Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-179534).

[0004] Here, when liquid is distributed and supplied from a storage unit to multiple liquid nozzles, if the distance (length of the liquid flow path) from the inlet where liquid is introduced into the storage unit to the outlet where liquid is discharged from the storage unit to each liquid nozzle is different, the temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle will be uneven. That is, in sections where the distance from the inlet to the outlet is longer, the liquid is heated in the storage unit for a longer time, thus tending to have a higher temperature of liquid supplied to the liquid nozzle. Conversely, in sections where the distance from the inlet to the outlet is shorter, the liquid is heated in the storage unit for a shorter time, thus tending to have a lower temperature of liquid supplied to the liquid nozzle. As a result, when there is unevenness in the temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle, unevenness will also occur in the viscosity and other properties of the liquid ejected from each liquid nozzle, which may lead to uneven liquid concentration, deviation in liquid landing position, etc.

[0005] Therefore, in this invention, the objective is to suppress uneven temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle.

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-179534 Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the aforementioned issues, the present invention provides a nozzle module, characterized by comprising: at least two liquid nozzles for spraying liquid; a storage section for storing the liquid; a heating component for heating the liquid in the storage section; an inlet section for introducing the liquid into the storage section; a first outlet section for discharging the liquid in the storage section to one of the liquid nozzles; and a second outlet section for discharging the liquid in the storage section to the other liquid nozzle, wherein the distance between the inlet section and the first outlet section is shorter than the distance between the inlet section and the second outlet section, and a wall component is provided between the inlet section and the first outlet section.

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress uneven temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the overall configuration of an inkjet image forming apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 2 The diagram shown is of the control system of the inkjet image forming apparatus according to this embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic configuration diagram of the nozzle unit involved in this embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 6 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 7 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 8 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 9 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 10 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 11 The diagram shown is an example of applying the present invention to a non-circulating nozzle module.

[0020] Figure 12 The diagram shows other examples of applying the invention to a non-recirculating nozzle module.

[0021] Figure 13 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module involved in the comparative example.

[0022] Figure 14The diagram shown is a schematic representation of an example of an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the drawings used to explain the present invention, components or constituent parts having the same function or shape are given the same symbol and their description is omitted after being described once, provided they can be identified.

[0024] First, based on Figure 1 and Figure 2 The configuration of an inkjet image forming apparatus, which is one embodiment of the liquid ejection device according to the present invention, will be described. Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the overall structure of an inkjet image forming apparatus. Figure 2 The diagram shown is of the control system of an inkjet image forming apparatus.

[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment includes a sheet supply unit 1 for supplying a sheet S for image forming, an image forming unit 2 for forming an image on the sheet S, a conveying unit 3 for conveying the sheet S to the image forming unit 2, a drying unit 4 for drying the sheet S, and a sheet recycling unit 5 for recycling the sheet S with the formed image. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment includes a control unit 6 for controlling the sheet supply unit 1, the image forming unit 2, the conveying unit 3, the drying unit 4, and the sheet recycling unit 5 (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0026] The sheet supply unit 1 includes a supply roller 11 for winding a long sheet S into a roll shape, and a tension adjustment mechanism 12 for adjusting the tension applied to the sheet S. The supply roller 11 is configured to be able to move along... Figure 1 The sheet S is fed out by rotating in the direction of the arrow shown, and by rotating the supply roller 11. The tension adjustment mechanism 12 has multiple rollers that support the sheet S and apply tension. The tension of the sheet S is adjusted by moving a portion of these rollers, and the sheet S is fed out from the supply roller 11 with a certain tension.

[0027] The image forming unit 2 has a printhead unit 13, which is a liquid ejection unit that ejects liquid ink onto a sheet S, and a pressure plate 14, which is a sheet support member that supports the conveyed sheet S. The printhead unit 13 has multiple liquid ejection heads. Based on image data generated by the control unit 6, ink is ejected from each liquid ejection head onto the sheet S, thereby forming an image on the sheet S. Here, the ink is a liquid comprising color material, solvent, and crystalline resin particles dispersed in the solvent. The crystalline resin is a resin that undergoes a phase change and melts from a crystalline state into a liquid when heated above a predetermined melting point. The pressure plate 14 is configured to face the printhead unit 13 and support the lower surface of the sheet S supplied from the sheet supply unit 1. In addition, the pressure plate 14 is configured to be able to approach and move away from the printhead unit 13 in a way that maintains a constant distance between the printhead unit 13 and the sheet S.

[0028] The conveying unit 3 has multiple conveying rollers 15. With the sheet S positioned between the conveying rollers 15, the sheet S is conveyed to the image forming unit 2 by the rotation of each conveying roller 15. Alternatively, the conveying unit 3 may also have other conveying mechanisms such as a conveyor belt.

[0029] The drying section 4 includes a heating roller 16 that heats the sheet S to promote the drying of ink on the sheet S. The heating roller 16 is a cylindrical component that rotates while winding the sheet S around its outer circumference, and a heat source such as a halogen heater is disposed inside. In addition to contact heating mechanisms such as the heating roller 16, non-contact heating mechanisms such as a warm air generator that blows warm air onto the sheet S can also be used as heating mechanisms for heating the sheet S.

[0030] The sheet recycling section 5 includes a recycling roller 17 for winding and recycling the sheet S, and a tension adjusting mechanism 18 for adjusting the tension applied to the sheet S. The recycling roller 17 is configured to be able to move along... Figure 1 As indicated by the arrow, the sheet S is wound into a roll and recovered by the rotation of the recovery roller 17. The tension adjustment mechanism 18 is the same as the tension adjustment mechanism 12 of the sheet supply section 1, and has multiple rollers. The tension of the sheet S is adjusted by the movement of some of these rollers, and the sheet S is wound up with a certain tension by the recovery roller 17.

[0031] The control unit 6 is composed of an information processing device such as a personal computer (PC). In addition to generating image data formed on the sheet S, the control unit 6 also controls various operations of the sheet supply unit 1, image forming unit 2, conveying unit 3, drying unit 4, and sheet recycling unit 5. For example, in addition to controlling the rotational speeds of the supply roller 11, recycling roller 17, and each conveying roller 15, the control unit 6 also controls the temperature of the heating source that heats the heating roller 16.

[0032] Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic configuration diagram of the nozzle unit 13 according to this embodiment.

[0033] like Figure 3 As shown, the nozzle unit 13 includes a nozzle module 20 that has the function of spraying liquid, and a liquid circulation device 30 that circulates liquid relative to the nozzle module 20.

[0034] The nozzle module 20 includes a submodule 22 having two liquid nozzles 21A and 21B, and a manifold 23 for distributing liquid to each liquid nozzle 21A and 21B. Additionally, the submodule 22 may have three or more liquid nozzles 21.

[0035] Each liquid ejector head 21A, 21B has multiple nozzles for ejecting liquid. The multiple nozzles are arranged in a direction orthogonal to the sheet conveying direction to form a nozzle array, for example, two rows of nozzle arrays are arranged in the sheet conveying direction.

[0036] The manifold 23 has two tanks 24 and 25 that serve as storage sections for storing liquids. One of the tanks 24 and 25, the tank 24, is a supply tank that stores the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 21A and 21B, and the other tank 25 is a recovery tank that stores the liquid recovered from each liquid nozzle 21A and 21B.

[0037] The supply tank 24 is provided with a common supply path 40 for introducing liquid supplied from the liquid circulation device 30 into the supply tank 24, and two separate supply paths 41A and 41B for supplying liquid from the supply tank 24 to each liquid nozzle 21A and 21B. On the other hand, the recovery tank 25 is provided with two separate recovery paths 42A and 42B for recovering liquid from each liquid nozzle 21A and 21B to the recovery tank 25, and a common recovery path 43 for conveying liquid from the recovery tank 25 to the liquid circulation device 30.

[0038] In addition, heaters 26 are provided in the supply tank 24 and the recovery tank 25 as heating components for heating the liquid inside each tank 24, 25. Each heater 26 is configured to contact the outer surface of the supply tank 24 and the recovery tank 25 and heat the liquid inside each tank 24, 25.

[0039] The liquid circulation device 30 includes, for example, a compressor as a positive pressure generating mechanism and a vacuum pump as a negative pressure generating mechanism. When circulating liquid relative to each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B, the compressor pressurizes the supply tank 24 side and the vacuum pump depressurizes the recovery tank 25 side, creating an internal pressure difference between the tanks 24 and 25. Thus, liquid is supplied from the liquid circulation device 30 to each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B via the supply tank 24, and liquid is recovered from each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B to the liquid circulation device 30 via the recovery tank 25, thereby circulating the liquid.

[0040] Here, refer to Figure 13 The configuration of a comparative example that differs from that of the present invention will be described.

[0041] exist Figure 13 In the comparative example shown, similar to the embodiment of the present invention described above, the nozzle module 200 includes two liquid nozzles 210A and 210B; a supply tank 240 for storing liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 210A and 210B; a recovery tank 250 for storing liquid recovered from each liquid nozzle 210A and 210B; and a heater 260 for heating the liquid in each tank 240 and 250. Furthermore, the supply tank 240 has a common supply path 400 connected to a liquid circulation device, and two separate supply paths 410A and 410B connected to each liquid nozzle 210A and 210B. On the other hand, the recovery tank 250 has two separate recovery paths 420A and 420B connected to each liquid nozzle 210A and 210B, and a common recovery path 430 connected to a liquid circulation device.

[0042] In the nozzle module 200 of the comparative example, the liquid introduced into the supply tank 240 is heated by the heater 260 and supplied to each liquid nozzle 210A, 210B via individual supply paths 410A, 410B. The temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 210A, 210B depends on the time from when the liquid is supplied into the supply tank 240 to when it is discharged from the supply tank 240. That is, if the time from when the liquid is introduced into the supply tank 240 to when it is discharged is long, the time for the liquid to be heated by the heater 260 is longer, and therefore the temperature of the liquid is higher.

[0043] Regarding this point, in the comparative example, because the distances L1 and L2 from the inlet 500 of the supply tank 240, which serves as the connection point to the common supply path 400, to the outlets 510A and 510B of the supply tank 240, which serve as the connection points to the individual supply paths 410A and 410B, are different, the heating time differs for the liquid supplied via the individual supply path 410A on one side and the liquid supplied via the individual supply path 410B on the other side, resulting in temperature unevenness. Figure 13 In the example shown, the outlet 510A on the right is positioned directly below or near the inlet 500, while the outlet 510B on the left is positioned away from the inlet 500. Therefore, the distance L2 between the left outlet 510B and the inlet 500 is longer than the distance L1 between the right outlet 510A and the inlet 500. Consequently, the temperature of the liquid supplied via the left outlet 510B tends to be higher than the temperature of the liquid supplied via the right outlet 510A.

[0044] Thus, in the comparative example, because the path length of the liquid from the inlet 500 to each outlet 510A, 510B is different, there is a problem that the temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 210A, 210B will be uneven. In addition, when the temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 210A, 210B is uneven, the viscosity of the sprayed liquid will also be uneven, which may lead to problems such as uneven liquid concentration and deviation of the liquid landing position.

[0045] For problems like those mentioned above, such as in Figure 13 In this configuration, if the common supply path 400 is connected to the upper center of the supply tank 240, the distance from the inlet 500 to each outlet 510A, 510B becomes equal, thus suppressing uneven temperature distribution of the supply liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 210A, 210B. However, when the common supply path 400 is connected to the upper center of the supply tank 240, the connector 600 (see reference...) cannot be connected... Figure 13 The parts, such as those for the supply tank 240, are located on the upper part of the supply tank, so the parts arrangement must be changed.

[0046] Alternatively, another method involves converging the outlets of the supply tank 240 into one and branching the supply paths from one outlet to each liquid nozzle 210A, 210B. However, in this case, the hydraulic pressure fluctuations when liquid is ejected from one liquid nozzle 210A can easily propagate through the branched supply paths to the liquid in the other liquid nozzle 210B, potentially adversely affecting the liquid ejection operation in the other liquid nozzle 210B.

[0047] Therefore, in view of the above-mentioned situation, the present invention employs the following configuration to avoid changes in the configuration of components such as connectors and the propagation of hydraulic fluctuations between liquid nozzles, while also suppressing uneven temperature distribution of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle. The configuration of the nozzle module according to the present invention will be described below.

[0048] Figure 4 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] like Figure 4 As shown, in the nozzle module 20 of this embodiment, a wall component 27 is provided inside the supply tank 24 to change the flow direction of the liquid. The wall component 27 is a plate-shaped component that is impermeable to liquid. When liquid is introduced into the supply tank 24 from the common supply path 40, the movement of the liquid is restricted by the wall component 27, thereby changing the flow direction of the liquid. Specifically, in this embodiment, after the movement of the introduced liquid is restricted by the wall component 27, the liquid does not move directly downwards (in the liquid introduction direction) of the common supply path 40, but moves in a direction intersecting the direction directly downwards (in the direction of arrow F1 in the figure).

[0050] Here, in this embodiment, similar to the comparative example described above, the distances L1 and L2 from the inlet 50 of the supply tank 24, which serves as the connection point to the common supply path 40, to the outlets 51A and 51B of the supply tank 24, which serve as the connection points to the individual supply paths 41A and 41B, are different. Furthermore, the distances L1 and L2 referred to here are the distances from the inlet 50 to the outlets 51A and 51B without the wall member 27. Specifically, in the nozzle module 20 of this embodiment, similar to the comparative example described above, the first outlet 510A, located on the right side of the figure, is positioned directly below or near the inlet 50, while the second outlet 510B, located on the left side of the figure, is positioned away from the inlet 50. Therefore, the distance L2 between the second outlet 510B and the inlet 50 is longer than the distance L1 between the first outlet 510A and the inlet 50.

[0051] Thus, in this embodiment, the distances from the inlet 50 to each outlet 51A, 51B are different, but between the first outlet 51A, which is shorter than the inlet 50, and the inlet 50, a wall member 27 is provided to change the flow direction of the liquid. Therefore, the liquid does not move in a straight line from the inlet 50 to the first outlet 51A, but rather moves around the wall member 27, as shown by arrow F1 in the figure. That is, by having the wall member 27, the distance the liquid travels from the inlet 50 to the first outlet 51A is increased, thereby reducing the difference in the path length of the liquid from the inlet 50 to each outlet 51A, 51B (the path lengths via F1 and F2 and the path lengths via F1 and F3).

[0052] Therefore, because it is difficult for a temperature difference to occur between the liquid discharged from the first outlet 51A to one side of the liquid nozzle 21A and the liquid discharged from the second outlet 51B to the other side of the liquid nozzle 21B, it is possible to prevent undesirable conditions such as uneven concentration of liquid discharged from each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B and deviation of liquid landing position. Furthermore, the liquid paths indicated by arrows F1, F2, and F3 in the figure mainly represent an example of the paths the liquid travels; not all liquids move through this path. This is in Figure 4 The same applies to the other attached figures.

[0053] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since uneven liquid temperature can be suppressed simply by arranging the wall member 27 within the supply tank 24, it is not necessary to change the configuration of components such as connectors. That is, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the common supply path 40 (inlet 50) does not need to be positioned at the upper center of the supply tank 24, it is possible to achieve the desired liquid temperature. Figure 4 As shown, the common supply path 40 (inlet 50) can be positioned in the corner at the upper center of the supply tank 24, and the connector 60 for sending electrical signals to the liquid nozzle can be positioned at the upper center of the supply tank 24. Furthermore, "the center of the supply tank 24" refers to the area from the liquid inlet direction (…). Figure 4 (The center of the supply tank 24 when viewed from above) Also, "center of the supply tank 24" in the following description has the same meaning.

[0054] The wall component 27 is located between the inlet 50 and the first outlet 51A, but when viewed from the inlet 50, the wall component 27 is preferably located in a region that does not exceed the center of the supply tank 24. By locating the wall component 27 in a region that does not exceed the center of the supply tank 24 when viewed from the inlet 50, the difference in the path length of the liquid from the inlet 50 to each outlet 51A, 51B can be reduced more effectively.

[0055] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the outlets of the supply tank 24 can be combined into one, because the supply path does not branch from a single outlet, thus suppressing the propagation of hydraulic fluctuations between the liquid nozzles 21A and 21B. That is, according to an embodiment of the present invention, as... Figure 4 As shown, two outlets 51A and 51B can be provided in the supply tank 24, and liquid can be supplied from each outlet 51A and 51B to each liquid nozzle 21A and 21B via separate supply paths 41A and 41B. Therefore, even if hydraulic fluctuations occur when liquid is ejected from one liquid nozzle 21A, these fluctuations are absorbed by the liquid in the supply tank 24, thereby preventing the hydraulic fluctuations from propagating to the liquid in the other liquid nozzle 21B. As a result, a stable liquid ejection operation can be maintained.

[0056] In addition, Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, since the wall member 27 is positioned above the heater 26 (on the inlet 50 side), the liquid flow direction can be changed and guided to the heating zone of the heater 26 before the liquid reaches it. In particular, in this embodiment, since the liquid is guided to the center of the supply tank 24 via the wall member 27 before reaching the heating zone, the heating time for the liquid reaching the outlets 51A and 51B located at the lower ends of the supply tank 24 is made equal. Therefore, uneven temperature distribution of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 21A and 21B can be more effectively suppressed.

[0057] Next, other embodiments that differ from the above-described embodiment (first embodiment) will be described. Hereinafter, the parts that differ from the above-described embodiment will be mainly described, and the parts that are the same will be omitted as appropriate.

[0058] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module 20 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] exist Figure 5 In the second embodiment shown, the same as the first embodiment described above ( Figure 4 The wall member 27 is positioned differently in the second embodiment. Otherwise, the configuration is essentially the same. Specifically, in the second embodiment, the wall member 27 is not positioned above the heater 26 (on the inlet 50 side), but rather below the heater 26 (on the first outlet 51A side). In this case, the liquid supplied from the inlet 50 to the first outlet 51A moves, for example, along the path shown by arrows F1 and F2 in the figure. On the other hand, the liquid supplied from the inlet 50 to the second outlet 51B moves, for example, along the path shown by arrows F1 and F3 in the figure.

[0060] In this embodiment, since the wall member 27 is disposed between the inlet 50 and the first outlet 51A, the linear movement of the liquid from the inlet 50 to the first outlet 51A is restricted by the wall member 27, and the liquid moves around the wall member 27. Therefore, in this embodiment, because the movement distance of the liquid from the inlet 50 to the first outlet 51A is longer, the difference in the path length of the liquid from the inlet 50 to each outlet 51A, 51B (the path length through F1 and F2 and the path length through F1 and F3) can be reduced. Thus, uneven temperature distribution of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B can be suppressed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, since changes to the configuration of components such as connectors and the propagation of hydraulic fluctuations between liquid nozzles can be avoided, a nozzle module with good liquid ejection accuracy can be provided without significant design changes.

[0061] As described above, the wall member 27 can be positioned either above or below the heater 26. Alternatively, the wall member 27 can be located where the heater 26 is situated. Furthermore, to avoid obstructing the introduction of liquid from the inlet 50 and the inflow of liquid to the first outlet 51A, the wall member 27 needs to be positioned at a predetermined interval relative to the inlet 50 and the first outlet 51A.

[0062] Figure 6 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module 20 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] exist Figure 6 In the third embodiment shown, two wall components 27A and 27B are provided inside the supply tank 24. Apart from this, it is similar to the first embodiment described above (…). Figure 4 The two wall components 27A and 27B have the same structure. The first wall component 27A, which is the same as the wall component 27 in the first embodiment described above, is disposed between the inlet portion 50 and the first outlet portion 51A. In contrast, the second wall component 27B, which is a different wall component from the first wall component 27A, is disposed separately on the opposite side from the first wall component 27A, sandwiching the center of the supply tank 24.

[0064] In this case, the liquid introduced from the inlet 50 is guided to the heating area of ​​the heater 26 between the first wall component 27A and the second wall component 27B. In particular, in this embodiment, since the first wall component 27A and the second wall component 27B are symmetrically arranged on the same plane (at the same height) above the heater 26 (on the side of the inlet 50) with reference to the center of the supply tank 24, the liquid... Figure 6As shown by arrow F1, the liquid is guided to the center of the heating zone between the wall components 27A and 27B, and then moves separately to the outlets 51A and 51B via paths shown by arrows F2 and F3. This ensures that the heating time of the liquid from the inlet 50 to each outlet 51A and 51B is approximately the same, thus more effectively suppressing temperature inconsistencies in the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 21A and 21B. Furthermore, the arrangement of the two wall components 27A and 27B is not limited to being on the same surface (at the same height); they can also be arranged slightly offset. In addition, in this embodiment, since changes to the arrangement of components such as connectors and the propagation of hydraulic fluctuations between liquid nozzles are avoided, a nozzle module with good liquid spraying accuracy can be provided without significant design changes.

[0065] Figure 7 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module 20 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] exist Figure 7 In the fourth embodiment shown, the two wall members 27A and 27B are disposed below the heater 26 (on the side of the first outlet 51A). Furthermore, the two wall members 27A and 27B are disposed on opposite sides, sandwiching the center of the canister 24. That is, this embodiment is similar to the third embodiment described above (…). Figure 6 The difference lies in the arrangement of the two wall components 27A and 27B, which are positioned below the heater 26 (on the side of the first outlet 51A). Otherwise, it is the same configuration as the third embodiment.

[0067] At this time, the liquid introduced from the inlet 50 is like Figure 7 As indicated by arrow F1, after passing through the heating area of ​​heater 26, the liquid moves from between the two wall members 27A and 27B through the paths indicated by arrows F2 and F3 to each outlet 51A and 51B. Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the two wall members 27A and 27B are symmetrically arranged on the same surface (at the same height) below heater 26 (on the side of the first outlet 51A) with reference to the center of supply tank 24, the heated liquid is supplied from the center of supply tank 24 to each outlet 51A and 51B.

[0068] Therefore, since liquids heated to the same degree are supplied to each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B, temperature unevenness of the liquid in each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B can be more effectively suppressed. Furthermore, the arrangement of the two wall components 27A, 27B is not limited to being on the same surface (at the same height); they can also be arranged slightly offset. In addition, in this embodiment, since changes to the arrangement of components such as connectors and the propagation of hydraulic fluctuations between liquid nozzles can be avoided, a nozzle module with good liquid spraying accuracy can be provided without significant design changes.

[0069] Figure 8 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module 20 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] exist Figure 8 In the fifth embodiment shown, a portion of the upper surface of the supply tank 24 is formed to be concave downwards. Specifically, a recess 24a is formed in the upper surface of the supply tank 24, where the portion sandwiching the center of the supply tank 24 and opposite to the wall member 27 is concave downwards (in the liquid introduction direction). Furthermore, the wall member 27 in this embodiment is similar to that in the first embodiment described above (…). Figure 4 It is the same as that of the heater 26, and is located between the inlet 50 and the first outlet 51A.

[0071] At this time, when the liquid is introduced from the inlet 50, the liquid flows through the wall component 27 towards... Figure 8 The liquid is guided in the direction of arrow F1 and passes between the wall member 27 and the recess 24a, towards the heating area of ​​the heater 26. Then, the liquid passes through... Figure 8 The paths indicated by arrows F2 and F3 in the diagram move separately towards each outlet 51A, 51B. That is, the recess 24a and the third embodiment described above ( Figure 6 Similarly, the second wall component 27B in the supply tank 24 also functions to restrict the flow of liquid and gather the liquid towards the center of the supply tank 24. Therefore, in this embodiment, since the heating time of the liquid from the inlet 50 to each outlet 51A, 51B can be made approximately the same, uneven temperature distribution of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B can be suppressed. Furthermore, the bottom surface (lower surface) of the recess 24a, like the second wall component 27B, is preferably disposed on the same surface as the wall component 27 (first wall component 27A) disposed directly below the inlet 50, but it can also be disposed slightly offset.

[0072] Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is not as described in the third embodiment above ( Figure 6Instead of a second wall component 27B, a recess 24a is provided to recess the upper surface of the supply tank 24, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating in the upper part of the supply tank 24. That is, in the third embodiment described above ( Figure 6 In this process, because there is a space (gap) between the second wall component 27B and the upper inner surface of the supply tank 24, liquid may stagnate in this space. Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, since there is no space above the recess 24a, liquid retention can be avoided. Therefore, in this embodiment, thickening and solidification of the liquid caused by liquid retention in the supply tank 24 can be prevented.

[0073] Furthermore, in this embodiment, similar to the embodiments described above, since changes to the configuration of components such as connectors and the propagation of hydraulic fluctuations between liquid nozzles can be avoided, a nozzle module with good liquid ejection accuracy can be provided without significant design changes.

[0074] Figure 9 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module 20 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 9 The sixth embodiment shown is based on the fifth embodiment described above. Figure 8 In this configuration, an additional heater 26B is added above the wall member 27 (on the side of the inlet portion 50). That is, in this embodiment, a main heater 26A, which serves as a first heating element for heating the liquid, is provided below the wall member 27 (in the area between the wall member 27 and the first outlet portion 51A), and an auxiliary heater 26B, which serves as a second heating element for heating the liquid, is provided above the wall member 27 (in the area between the inlet portion 50 and the wall member 27).

[0076] Thus, by providing an auxiliary heater 26B above the wall member 27, the liquid guided along the upper surface of the wall member 27 can also be heated. That is, as in this embodiment, in the configuration where the wall member 27 is positioned above the main heater 26A, although the heating effect of the main heater 26A is difficult to extend to the liquid flowing above the wall member 27, the liquid can be effectively heated by providing the auxiliary heater 26B above the wall member 27. Furthermore, the main heater 26A and the auxiliary heater 26B are not limited to being separate units; they can also be integrated. In addition, such an auxiliary heater 26B, besides… Figure 9 In addition to the supply tank 24 with recess 24a shown, a supply tank 24 without recess 24a may also be provided (e.g., Figure 4 or Figure 6 In the supply tank 24 shown.

[0077] Figure 10 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the nozzle module 20 according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] exist Figure 10 In the seventh embodiment shown, in addition to the supply tank 24, a wall component 27 is also provided inside the recovery tank 25. Furthermore, it differs from the first embodiment described above (…). Figure 4 The same structure is used. The wall component 27 installed inside the recycling tank 25 is located near the outlet 71 of the recycling tank 25, which serves as the connection point with the common recycling path 43.

[0079] Here, in the recycling tank 25, in addition to an outlet 71 serving as a connection point to the common recycling path 43, two inlets 70A and 70B are also provided as connection points to each individual recycling path 42A and 42B. The distances L3 and L4 from each inlet 70A and 70B of the recycling tank 25 to the outlet 71 are different. The distance L3 between the first inlet 70A, located directly below the outlet 71, and the outlet 71 is longer than the distance L4 between the second inlet 70B, located directly below the outlet 71, and the outlet 71. Furthermore, the distances L3 and L4 referred to here are the distances from each inlet 70A and 70B to the outlet 71 without the wall member 27. The wall member 27 is then positioned between the second inlet 70B, whose distance to the outlet 71 is shorter, and the outlet 71.

[0080] Therefore, in this embodiment, when liquid is introduced into the recovery tank 25 from the second inlet 70B, the liquid does not move in a straight line from the second inlet 70B towards the outlet 71, but rather... Figure 10 As indicated by arrows F5 and F6, the liquid moves around the wall component 27. This reduces the difference between the path length of the liquid from the second inlet 70B to the outlet 71 (the path length via F5 and F6) and the path length of the liquid from the first inlet 70A to the outlet 71 (the path length via F4 and F6).

[0081] Thus, not only in the supply tank 24, but also in the recovery tank 25, by providing a wall component 27 between the short-distance inlet and outlet, the recovery tank 25 can be used as a supply tank. For example, with Figure 10 The liquid circulation direction is opposite. Even if the liquid is introduced into the recovery tank 25 from the side of the common recovery path 43, the heating time of the liquid is longer because the introduced liquid moves around the wall component 27. Therefore, the uneven temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B can be suppressed.

[0082] Thus, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the same effect can be obtained even if the circulation direction of the liquid is reversed. Therefore, the circulation direction of the liquid in the nozzle module 20 can be changed according to the device layout or design, thereby improving versatility.

[0083] In the above embodiments, although the present invention has been described as an example of a circulating nozzle module that recycles liquid recovered from a liquid nozzle and supplies it back to the liquid nozzle, the present invention is not limited to circulating nozzle modules, but can also be applied to non-circulating nozzle modules that do not recycle liquid from a liquid nozzle.

[0084] For example, the present invention can also be applied to, for example, Figure 11 The shown is a non-circulating nozzle module 20 with two supply tanks 24. Figure 11 In the example shown, while heaters 26 are provided for each supply tank 24, a common supply path 40 and two separate supply paths 41A and 41B are connected. In each supply tank 24, a wall member 27 for changing the flow direction of the liquid is arranged near the inlet 50, which is the connection point with the common supply path 40. That is, in this example, as in the embodiments described above, the wall member 27 is sandwiched between the first outlet 51A, which is shorter in distance from the inlet 50, and the inlet 50.

[0085] Therefore, when the liquid is introduced into each supply tank 24, such as Figure 11 As indicated by arrows F1 and F2, the liquid moves around the wall component 27. This reduces the difference in the path length of the liquid from the inlet 50 to the outlets 51A and 51B in each supply tank 24 (the path length through F1 and F2 and the path length through F1 and F3).

[0086] Thus, by applying this invention in the non-circulating nozzle module 20, the path length difference of the liquid from the inlet 50 of the supply tank 24 to each outlet 51A, 51B can be reduced. This reduces the unevenness in the heating time of the liquid by the heater 26 and suppresses the unevenness in the temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B. Furthermore, by applying this invention, changes to the configuration of components such as connectors and the propagation of hydraulic fluctuations between liquid nozzles can be avoided. Therefore, a non-circulating nozzle module with good liquid spraying accuracy can be provided without significant design changes.

[0087] In addition, for such Figure 12The non-circulating nozzle module 20 with a supply tank 24 shown can also be used with the present invention. In this case, by arranging a wall member 27 with the same function as described above inside the supply tank 24, uneven temperature of the liquid supplied to each liquid nozzle 21A, 21B can also be suppressed. In addition, in this case, changes to the configuration of components such as connectors and the propagation of hydraulic fluctuations between liquid nozzles can also be avoided.

[0088] In addition, in the above Figure 11 , Figure 12 In the non-circulating example shown, the first embodiment described above is applied as the configuration of the supply tank 24, wall component 27, and heater 26. Figure 4 The composition of ) can also be applied. Figures 5-9 The configurations of the other embodiments shown.

[0089] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the printhead module of an inkjet image forming apparatus, which is an example of a liquid ejection device, but can also be applied to printhead modules of other liquid ejection devices.

[0090] In this invention, a "liquid ejection device" refers to a device that has a liquid ejection section, drives the liquid ejection section, and ejects liquid onto a sheet or other object. In addition to the mechanism related to the supply, transport, and discharge of the object, the "liquid ejection device" also includes a pre-treatment device, a post-treatment device, etc.

[0091] Furthermore, the "liquid ejection device" involved in this invention can be either a device in which the liquid ejection part moves relative to the sheet, or a device in which the liquid ejection part does not move relative to the sheet. As specific examples, as a "liquid ejection device", there are tandem type devices that move the liquid ejection head (liquid ejection part) and linear type devices that do not move the liquid ejection head (liquid ejection part).

[0092] Furthermore, "liquid ejection device" is not limited to devices that visualize meaningful images such as characters and graphics by ejecting liquid. For example, "liquid jetting device" includes devices for forming patterns that are not meaningful in themselves, devices for shaping three-dimensional images, and further, processing liquid jetting devices for spraying processing liquid onto the surface of a sheet to modify the surface of the sheet.

[0093] The term "sheet material" as used above refers to a substance to which a liquid can adhere at least temporarily, including substances that adhere or permeate after adhesion. Specific examples include the recording medium such as paper, recording paper, recording material, film, and cloth, as well as electronic substrates. Furthermore, "sheet material" is not limited to long, continuous strips of paper (roll paper) as described above; it can also refer to paper cut to a specified size in the sheet material transport direction (paper cut).

[0094] As for the material of "sheet material", it can be any material such as paper, silk, fiber, cloth, leather, metal, plastic, glass, wood, ceramics, etc., to which liquid can adhere even temporarily.

[0095] Furthermore, the "liquid" ejected by the "liquid ejection device" according to the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it has a viscosity or surface tension sufficient to be ejected from the liquid ejection section, but preferably a liquid with a viscosity of 30 MPa·s or less at room temperature and pressure or when heated or cooled. Specifically, this includes solutions, suspensions, latexes, etc., of solvents such as water or organic solvents, colorants such as dyes and pigments, polymeric compounds, resins, functional materials such as surfactants, biocompatible materials such as DNA, amino acids and proteins, calcium, etc., and edible materials such as natural pigments. For example, they can be used as ink for inkjet printing, surface treatment liquids, components of electronic components and light-emitting elements, liquids for forming resist patterns in electronic circuits, material liquids for three-dimensional modeling, food inks, etc.

[0096] <Electrode Manufacturing Apparatus>

[0097] Furthermore, the "liquid ejection device" according to the present invention includes an apparatus for manufacturing electrodes and electrochemical elements. The apparatus for manufacturing electrodes will be described below.

[0098] Figure 14 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of an example of an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electrode manufacturing apparatus is an apparatus that manufactures an electrode comprising a layer having an electrode material by discharging a liquid composition using a nozzle module including a liquid ejector head.

[0099] <Methods and procedures for forming layers containing electrode materials>

[0100] Figure 14The electrode manufacturing apparatus shown includes a spraying means that is the nozzle module described in the embodiments of the present invention. A liquid composition is sprayed from the spray head of the nozzle module, and the liquid composition is applied to the object to form a liquid composition layer. The object (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the "spraying object") can be any object that forms a layer containing electrode material; there are no particular limitations, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Examples of objects include electrode substrates (current collectors), active material layers, and layers containing solid electrode material. Alternatively, the object can be an electrode composite material layer containing active material on an electrode substrate (current collector). Furthermore, as long as a layer containing electrode material can be formed on the spraying object, the spraying means and spraying process can be means and processes for forming a layer containing electrode material by directly spraying the liquid composition. Alternatively, the spraying means and spraying process can be means and processes for forming a layer containing electrode material by indirectly spraying the liquid composition.

[0101] Other components, other processes

[0102] Other components included in the apparatus for manufacturing the electrode composite layer are not particularly limited, as long as they do not impair the effects of the present invention, and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Similarly, other steps included in the method for manufacturing the electrode composite layer are not particularly limited, as long as they do not impair the effects of the present invention, and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, components and steps included in the apparatus and method for manufacturing the electrode composite layer may include heating mechanisms and heating steps.

[0103] <Heating mechanism, heating process>

[0104] The apparatus for manufacturing the electrode composite layer includes a heating mechanism that heats the liquid composition ejected by a spraying means. Furthermore, the heating step included in the method for manufacturing the electrode composite layer is a step that heats the liquid composition ejected during the spraying process. By heating the liquid composition, the liquid composition layer can be dried.

[0105] <Composition of forming a layer containing electrode material by direct spraying of a liquid composition>

[0106] Here, as an example of an electrode manufacturing apparatus, an apparatus for manufacturing an electrode in which an electrode composite material layer containing an active material is formed on an electrode substrate (current collector) will be described. Figure 14 As shown, the electrode manufacturing apparatus includes an ejection process unit 110, which includes a process of applying a liquid composition to a printing substrate material 704 having an object to be ejected to form a liquid composition layer, and a heating process unit 130, which includes a heating process of heating the liquid composition layer to obtain an electrode composite material layer.

[0107] The electrode manufacturing apparatus includes a conveying unit 705 for conveying a printing substrate material 704. The conveying unit 705 conveys the printing substrate material 704 in the order of the ejection process unit 110 and the heating process unit 130 at a preset speed. There are no particular limitations on the manufacturing method of the printing substrate material 704, which is the object to be ejected, such as an active material layer, and a known method can be appropriately selected. The ejection process unit 110 includes a liquid ejection head 281a for performing the application process of applying a liquid composition to the printing substrate material 704, a receiving container 281b for receiving the liquid composition 707, and a supply pipe 281c for supplying the liquid composition 707 contained in the receiving container 281b to the liquid ejection head 281a.

[0108] In the ejection process section 110, a liquid composition 707 is ejected from the liquid ejection head 281a and applied to the printing substrate material 704 to form a thin film-like liquid composition layer. Furthermore, the receiving container 281b can be integrated with the electrode composite material layer manufacturing apparatus, or it can be removed from the electrode composite material layer manufacturing apparatus. Alternatively, the receiving container 281b can be an integrated receiving container with the electrode composite material layer manufacturing apparatus, or it can be a container for adding to a receiving container that can be removed from the electrode composite material layer manufacturing apparatus.

[0109] The container 281b and the supply tube 281c can be chosen arbitrarily as long as they can stably contain and supply the liquid composition 707.

[0110] In the heating process section 130, a solvent removal process is performed to remove the solvent remaining in the liquid composition layer by heating. Specifically, the solvent remaining in the liquid composition layer is removed by drying it through heating by the heating device 703 of the heating process section 130. This forms the electrode composite material layer. Alternatively, the solvent removal process in the heating process section 130 can also be performed under reduced pressure.

[0111] There are no particular limitations on the heating device 703, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, substrate heaters, IR heaters, and hot air heaters can be used as heating devices 703. In addition, the heating device 703 may also be a device that combines at least two of the substrate heater, IR heater, and hot air heater. Furthermore, the heating temperature and heating time can be appropriately selected based on the boiling point of the solvent contained in the liquid composition 707 or the film thickness formed.

[0112] By using the electrode manufacturing apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention, a liquid composition can be sprayed onto a target portion of an object. The electrode composite material layer can preferably be used as part of the structure of an electrochemical element, for example. There are no particular limitations on the components other than the electrode composite material layer in the electrochemical element, and known structures can be appropriately selected. Examples of components other than the electrode composite material layer include positive electrodes, negative electrodes, and separators.

[0113] In summary, the present invention includes at least a nozzle module, an image forming apparatus, and a liquid ejection apparatus configured as described above.

[0114] [First Composition]

[0115] The first configuration relates to a nozzle module, characterized by comprising: at least two liquid nozzles for spraying liquid; a storage section for storing the liquid; a heating element for heating the liquid in the storage section; an inlet section for introducing the liquid into the storage section; a first outlet section for discharging the liquid in the storage section to one of the liquid nozzles; and a second outlet section for discharging the liquid in the storage section to the other liquid nozzle, wherein the distance between the inlet section and the first outlet section is shorter than the distance between the inlet section and the second outlet section, and a wall member is provided between the inlet section and the first outlet section.

[0116] [Second Composition]

[0117] The second configuration is that, in the first configuration, the wall component is positioned closer to the inlet than the heating component.

[0118] [Third Composition]

[0119] The third configuration is that, in the first configuration, the wall component is positioned closer to the first outlet than the heating component.

[0120] [Fourth Composition]

[0121] The fourth configuration is that, in any of the first to third configurations, the wall component, in addition to the first wall component disposed between the inlet and the first outlet, also has a second wall component disposed away from the first wall component, and when viewed from the liquid introduction direction, the first wall component and the second wall component are disposed on both sides of the center of the storage portion.

[0122] [Fifth Composition]

[0123] The fifth configuration is that, in any of the first to third configurations, when viewed from the liquid introduction direction, the storage portion has a recessed portion in the liquid introduction direction on the side opposite to the wall member that is sandwiched in the center of the storage portion.

[0124] [Sixth Composition]

[0125] The sixth configuration is that, in any of the first to fifth configurations, the heating member has a first heating member that heats the liquid in the region between the wall member and the first outlet, and a second heating member that heats the liquid in the region between the inlet and the wall member.

[0126] [Seventh Composition]

[0127] The seventh configuration is, in any of the first to sixth configurations, a circulating nozzle module that resupplyes the liquid recovered from the liquid nozzle to the liquid nozzle again.

[0128] [Eighth Composition]

[0129] The eighth configuration is a non-circulating nozzle module that does not recycle liquid from the liquid nozzle, in any of the first to sixth configurations.

[0130] [Ninth Composition]

[0131] The ninth configuration is an image forming apparatus that includes a nozzle module of any one of the first to eighth configurations.

[0132] [The 10th component]

[0133] The tenth configuration is a liquid ejection device that includes a nozzle module of any one of the first to eighth configurations.

Claims

1. A nozzle module, characterized in that... include: At least two liquid nozzles that spray liquid; A storage unit for storing the liquid; A heating element for heating the liquid in the storage compartment; An inlet that introduces the liquid into the storage section; The first outlet section that delivers the liquid in the storage section to a liquid spray head, and The second outlet is used to deliver the liquid in the storage section to another liquid spray head. The distance between the inlet and the first outlet is shorter than the distance between the inlet and the second outlet. A wall component is provided between the inlet and the first outlet.

2. The nozzle module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The wall component is positioned closer to the inlet than the heating component.

3. The nozzle module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The wall component is positioned closer to the first outlet than the heating component.

4. The nozzle module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: In addition to the first wall component disposed between the inlet and the first outlet, the wall component also has a second wall component disposed away from the first wall component. Viewed from the liquid inlet direction, the first wall component and the second wall component are positioned on both sides, sandwiching the center of the storage section.

5. The nozzle module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Viewed from the liquid inlet direction, the storage section has a recessed portion in the liquid inlet direction on the side opposite to the wall member, which is sandwiched in the center of the storage section.

6. The nozzle module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The heating element has a first heating element that heats the liquid in the region between the wall component and the first outlet, and a second heating element that heats the liquid in the region between the inlet and the wall component.

7. The nozzle module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: It is a circulating nozzle module that recycles the liquid recovered from the liquid nozzle and supplies it back to the liquid nozzle.

8. The nozzle module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: It is a non-circulating nozzle module that does not recycle the liquid from the liquid nozzle.

9. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that: The nozzle module has any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. A liquid ejection device, characterized in that: The nozzle module is equipped with any one of claims 1 to 3.

Images