Printing apparatus and method for controlling printing apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides a printing device and a control method of the printing device, which can improve maintainability without increasing the size of the printing device. The printing apparatus includes: an attachment unit to which a medium support unit having a support surface for supporting a medium can be attached and detached; a head capable of discharging a liquid onto the medium supported by the support surface; a first moving unit that moves the head in a first direction parallel to the support surface; a second moving unit that moves the head in a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects the first direction; a control unit that controls the first moving unit and the second moving unit; an input unit capable of inputting an instruction of a user; and a notification unit that notifies information. The head is movable in a facing region facing the support surface. When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the notification unit performs a notification to urge the user to detach the medium support unit from the attachment unit, and the control unit moves the head from a standby position not included in the facing area to a cleaning position partially or entirely included in the facing area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing device and a control method of the printing device. Background Art

[0002] For example, as in Patent Document 1, a printing device is disclosed that prints on a medium by moving a head along a first direction. The head can move between a printing area and a non-printing area along the first direction. A maintenance area is allocated in the non-printing area. In such a printing device, when the head is arranged in the maintenance area, a mirror is provided in order to visually confirm the nozzle surface of the head from the outside.

[0003] However, in such a printing device, an area for disposing a mirror needs to be separately provided, which may lead to an increase in the size of the printing device. Therefore, a technology that does not lead to an increase in the size of the printing device and improves maintainability is desired.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-162174 Summary of the invention

[0005] The printing device for solving the above-mentioned problems comprises: an installation part, which can be installed and removed by a medium support part, and the medium support part has a support surface for supporting the medium; a head, which can spray liquid onto the medium supported on the support surface; a first moving part, which moves the head along a first direction parallel to the support surface; a second moving part, which moves the head along a second direction parallel to the support surface and intersecting with the first direction; a control part, which controls the first moving part and the second moving part; an input part, which can input instructions implemented by the user; a notification part, which notifies information that the head can move in an opposing area opposite to the support surface, and when a movement instruction is input to the input part, the notification part notifies the user to remove the medium support part from the installation part, and the control part moves the head from a standby position not included in the opposing area to a cleaning position partially or completely included in the opposing area.

[0006] A printing device for solving the above-mentioned problems comprises: a medium supporting portion, which has a supporting surface for supporting a medium; a position adjusting portion, which adjusts the position of the medium supporting portion in a vertical direction; a head, which can spray liquid onto the medium supported on the supporting surface; a first moving portion, which moves the head along a first direction parallel to the supporting surface; a second moving portion, which moves the head along a second direction parallel to the supporting surface and intersecting with the first direction; a control portion, which controls the first moving portion and the second moving portion; an input portion, which can input instructions implemented by a user, the head can move in an opposing area opposing the supporting surface, and when a movement instruction is input to the input portion, the control portion moves the head from a standby position not included in the opposing area to a cleaning position partially or completely included in the opposing area while lowering the medium supporting portion to a position lower than the highest position.

[0007] A control method for a printing device for solving the above-mentioned problem is as follows: when a movement instruction implemented by a user is input, a notification unit of the printing device notifies the user to remove a medium supporting unit having a supporting surface for supporting a medium, and the control unit of the printing device causes a head capable of spraying liquid toward the medium supported on the medium supporting unit to move along a first direction parallel to the supporting surface and a second direction parallel to the supporting surface and intersecting with the first direction, thereby moving the head from a standby position that is not included in an opposing area opposite to the supporting surface to a cleaning position that is partially or fully included in the opposing area.

[0008] A control method for a printing device for solving the above-mentioned problem is that, when a movement instruction implemented by a user is input, the control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of spraying liquid onto the medium in a first direction parallel to the supporting surface and in a second direction parallel to the supporting surface and intersecting with the first direction, while lowering a medium supporting portion having a supporting surface for supporting the medium to a position lower than a highest position, thereby moving the head from a standby position that is not included in an opposing area opposite to the supporting surface to a cleaning position that is partially or fully included in the opposing area. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing a printing device.

[0010] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing a printing device.

[0011] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the movement area of ​​the head.

[0012] Figure 4It is a front view showing the printing device.

[0013] Figure 5 It is a front view showing the printing device.

[0014] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing a printing device.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the printing device.

[0016] Figure 8 Flowchart showing the cleaning control process.

[0017] Fig. 9 Flowchart showing the cleaning control process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] First embodiment

[0019] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a printing device and a control method for the printing device will be described. In the following description, a direction intersecting the vertical direction Z is set as a width direction X, and a direction intersecting the vertical direction Z and the width direction X is set as a front-rear direction Y. One of the width directions X is set as a first width direction X1, and the other of the width direction X is set as a second width direction X2. One of the front-rear directions Y is set as a front Y1, and the other of the front-rear directions Y is set as a rear Y2. The upper part of the vertical direction Z is set as an upper Z1, and the lower part of the vertical direction Z is set as a lower Z2. The width direction X is equivalent to an example of the first direction. The first width direction X1 is equivalent to one of the first directions. The front-rear direction Y is equivalent to an example of the second direction.

[0020] Printing device 10

[0021] like Figure 1 As shown, the printing device 10 is configured to print on a medium. The printing device 10 may be configured to print on a medium by ejecting liquid. The printing device 10 may be configured to print on a flexible medium such as a T-shirt. The printing device 10 may be configured so that a user places a medium inside.

[0022] Housing 11

[0023] The printing device 10 includes a housing 11. The housing 11 may be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. The housing 11 includes a front surface 12 facing the front Y1. The housing 11 includes a back surface 13 facing the rear Y2. The housing 11 includes a left side surface 14 facing the second width direction X2. The housing 11 includes a right side surface 15 facing the first width direction X1. The housing 11 includes a top surface 16 facing upward Z1. The housing 11 includes a bottom surface 17 facing downward Z2. The front surface 12 is equivalent to an example of a side surface.

[0024] The housing 11 is configured to house various components included in the printing device 10. In particular, the housing 11 houses a medium support unit 28, a liquid supply unit 31, a printing unit 32, and a maintenance unit 40, which will be described later.

[0025] The housing 11 includes a housing frame 18. The housing frame 18 constitutes the exterior of the housing 11. The housing frame 18 includes an opening 19. That is, the housing 11 includes the opening 19. The opening 19 is configured to expose various components housed in the housing 11. In particular, the opening 19 is configured to expose a support surface 29 of a medium support portion 28 described later.

[0026] The opening 19 includes a first opening 20 and a second opening 21. The first opening 20 is provided on the top surface 16. The second opening 21 is provided on the front surface 12. The opening 19 opens a portion of the top surface 16 and a portion of the front surface 12. The first opening 20 and the second opening 21 are provided in a continuous manner. In other words, the opening 19 is provided in a manner that spans the top surface 16 and the front surface 12.

[0027] The housing 11 includes an opening and closing cover 22. The opening and closing cover 22 can open and close the opening 19. The opening and closing cover 22 can be made of a metal plate to ensure rigidity. The opening and closing cover 22 includes a first opening and closing cover 23. The first opening and closing cover 23 is a flat plate. The first opening and closing cover 23 can open and close the first opening 20.

[0028] The opening and closing cover 22 includes a second opening and closing cover 24. The second opening and closing cover 24 is in the shape of a flat plate. The second opening and closing cover 24 can open and close the second opening 21. The second opening and closing cover 24 includes a grip 25. The grip 25 can be gripped by a user.

[0029] The printing device 10 includes a display unit 26 and an operating unit 27. The display unit 26 is configured to display information. The display unit 26 is an example of a notification unit. The notification unit functions by transmitting information and urging the user to take action. The operating unit 27 is configured to be operable by the user. The operating unit 27 is equivalent to an example of an input unit that can input instructions issued by the user. Although the display unit 26 and the operating unit 27 can be integrally configured like a touch panel, they can also be configured separately. The display unit 26 and the operating unit 27 are provided on the top surface 16, but are not limited to this.

[0030] Medium support portion 28

[0031] The printing device 10 includes a medium support portion 28. The medium support portion 28 is configured to support the medium. The medium support portion 28 includes a support surface 29. The support surface 29 is a surface facing upward Z1. The support surface 29 is configured to support the medium. In particular, the support surface 29 is a surface that supports at least the printing area of ​​the medium.

[0032] The medium support portion 28 is supported by a position adjustment portion 59 described later. The medium support portion 28 is configured so as not to move in a horizontal direction parallel to the support surface 29 while being supported by the position adjustment portion 59. In other words, the support surface 29 is configured so as not to move in a horizontal direction. The medium support portion 28 can adjust the position of the support surface 29 with respect to the vertical direction Z by the position adjustment portion 59.

[0033] The printing device 10 includes a medium storage unit 30. The medium storage unit 30 is stored in the housing 11. The medium storage unit 30 is provided at least along the width direction X of the support surface 29, and may also be provided along the front-rear direction Y. When a part of the medium is supported on the support surface 29, the medium storage unit 30 can store a part of the medium that is not supported on the support surface 29.

[0034] Liquid supply unit 31

[0035] The printing device 10 includes a liquid supply unit 31. The liquid supply unit 31 is disposed closer to the second width direction X2 than the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30. The liquid supply unit 31 may be disposed along the inner wall surface relative to the left side surface 14. The liquid supply unit 31 is configured to store liquid and supply the stored liquid to the head 33 described later. The liquid supply unit 31 may be a detachable cartridge type or a tank type capable of replenishing liquid. The top surface of the liquid supply unit 31 may be a flat surface.

[0036] Printing Department 32

[0037] The printing device 10 includes a printing unit 32 . The printing unit 32 is configured to print on a medium. In particular, the printing unit 32 is configured to print on a medium supported on the support surface 29 .

[0038] The printing unit 32 includes a head 33. That is, the printing device 10 includes a head 33. The head 33 can eject liquid to the medium supported on the support surface 29. The head 33 includes a plurality of nozzles (not shown) that can eject liquid. The head 33 includes a nozzle surface (not shown) in which a plurality of nozzles are opened. The nozzle surface is a surface facing downward Z2.

[0039] The printing unit 32 includes a carriage 34. The carriage 34 is configured to support the head 33. The head 33 is configured as a serial type. The serial type is that the head 33 performs printing while moving in the width direction X.

[0040] The printing unit 32 includes a moving unit 35. The moving unit 35 is configured to move the carriage 34. That is, the moving unit 35 is configured to move the head 33. The moving unit 35 is configured to move the head 33 in the horizontal direction. Specifically, the moving unit 35 is configured to move the head 33 in the width direction X and the front-rear direction Y.

[0041] The moving unit 35 includes a first moving unit 36 ​​. That is, the printing device 10 includes a first moving unit 36 ​​. The first moving unit 36 ​​is configured to move the carriage 34 in the width direction X. That is, the first moving unit 36 ​​is configured to move the head 33 in the width direction X parallel to the support surface 29 .

[0042] The first moving portion 36 includes a first guide portion 37 . The first guide portion 37 is configured to extend in the width direction X across the support surface 29 . The first guide portion 37 guides the carriage 34 so that it can move in the width direction X.

[0043] The moving section 35 includes a second moving section 38. The printing device 10 includes the second moving section 38. The second moving section 38 is configured to support the first moving section 36. The second moving section 38 is configured to move the first moving section 36 along the front-rear direction Y. In other words, the second moving section 38 is configured to move the head 33 along the front-rear direction Y parallel to the support surface 29.

[0044] The second moving portion 38 includes a pair of second guide portions 39. The pair of second guide portions 39 are provided in the first width direction X1 and the second width direction X2 of the medium supporting portion 28 across the medium supporting portion 28. The pair of second guide portions 39 are configured to extend in the front-rear direction Y, respectively.

[0045] In this way, the moving portion 35 carries the head 33 and can move in the horizontal direction while straddling the medium supporting portion 28. The moving portion 35 is configured in a gate shape so as to straddle the medium supporting portion 28 when viewed from the front.

[0046] Maintenance Department 40

[0047] The printing device 10 includes a maintenance unit 40. The maintenance unit 40 is located closer to the first width direction X1 than the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30. The maintenance unit 40 is configured to extend in the front-rear direction Y. The maintenance unit 40 is arranged at a position that does not overlap with the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30 in the vertical direction Z. The maintenance unit 40 is arranged at a position that can face the head 33 in the upward direction Z1. The maintenance unit 40 is configured to perform maintenance on the head 33.

[0048] The maintenance unit 40 includes a flushing unit 41. The flushing unit 41 is configured to receive the liquid ejected from the head 33. The flushing unit 41 is configured to be movable along the front-rear direction Y together with the head 33, but may also be configured to extend along the front-rear direction Y. For convenience, the flushing unit 41 is disposed at Figure 1 , but may be linked with the movement of the head 33 in the front-to-back direction Y in a manner of being opposed to the head 33. The flushing unit 41 may be moved in the front-to-back direction Y by the same power source as the second moving unit 38, or may be moved in the front-to-back direction Y by a power source different from that of the second moving unit 38. The flushing unit 41 is arranged at a position that does not overlap with the medium supporting unit 28 and the medium containing unit 30 in the vertical direction Z.

[0049] The maintenance unit 40 includes a wiping unit 42. The wiping unit 42 can wipe the nozzle surface. The wiping unit 42 is disposed at a position that does not overlap the medium supporting unit 28 and the medium containing unit 30 in the vertical direction Z.

[0050] The maintenance unit 40 includes a suction unit 43. The suction unit 43 is configured to suck liquid from the head 33. The suction unit 43 may include a suction pump that sucks liquid from the head 33. The suction unit 43 is disposed at a position that does not overlap the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30 in the vertical direction Z.

[0051] In addition, the maintenance unit 40 may include a waste liquid tank (not shown). The waste liquid tank is configured to store the liquid received by the flushing unit 41. The waste liquid tank is configured to store the liquid sucked in by the suction unit 43. The waste liquid tank is arranged at a position that does not overlap with the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30 in the vertical direction Z.

[0052] Maintenance cover 44

[0053] like Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , the printing device 10 includes a maintenance cover 44 . The maintenance cover 44 is a cover capable of covering the upper Z1 side of the maintenance unit 40 .

[0054] The printing device 10 includes a cover storage portion 45 . The cover storage portion 45 is provided between the medium supporting portion 28 and the medium storage portion 30 and the maintenance portion 40 in the width direction X. The cover storage portion 45 can store the maintenance cover 44 .

[0055] In this way, the maintenance cover 44 can be Figure 1 The open position shown and Figure 2 The open position is a position where the maintenance section 40 is opened. Specifically, the open position is a position where the maintenance cover 44 does not cover the upper Z1 side of the maintenance section 40, and the maintenance cover 44 is stored in the cover storage portion 45. The closed position is a position where the maintenance section 40 is closed. Specifically, the closed position is a position where the maintenance cover 44 covers the upper Z1 side of the maintenance section 40.

[0056] Control unit 50

[0057] The printing device 10 includes a control unit 50. The control unit 50 controls the printing device 10. In particular, the control unit 50 controls at least the first moving unit 36 ​​and the second moving unit 38. The control unit 50 controls various actions performed by the printing device 10. The control unit 50 can be configured as a circuit including α: one or more processors that perform various processes in accordance with a computer program; β: one or more dedicated hardware circuits that perform at least a part of the various processes; or γ: a combination thereof. The hardware circuit is, for example, an integrated circuit for a specific purpose. The processor includes a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM, and the memory stores program codes or instructions configured to enable the CPU to perform processes. The memory, i.e., a computer-readable medium, includes all readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0058] like Figure 3 As shown, the printing device 10 includes an interference detection unit 58. The interference detection unit 58 detects the presence or absence of an interference object that may interfere with the head 33 at a position Z2 slightly below the nozzle surface of the head 33. In other words, the interference detection unit 58 is configured to detect interference with the head 33. The interference detection unit 58 may include a light projecting unit 58A and a light receiving unit 58B.

[0059] The interference detection unit 58 is supported by the second moving unit 38. Thus, the interference detection unit 58 is linked to the second moving unit 38. That is, the interference detection unit 58 is linked to the movement of the head 33 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0060] The interference detection unit 58 is located Y1 forward of the head 33. Therefore, the interference detection unit 58 can detect interference with the head 33 before the interference object actually interferes with the head 33 by moving forward Y1 together with the head 33 using the second moving unit 38.

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown, the printing device 10 includes a position adjustment portion 59. The position adjustment portion 59 supports the medium support portion 28. The position adjustment portion 59 is configured to adjust the position of the medium support portion 28 in the vertical direction Z. That is, the position adjustment portion 59 can adjust the position of the support surface 29 in the vertical direction Z. Thus, the position adjustment portion 59 is configured to adjust the interval between the head 33 and the support surface 29 in the vertical direction Z. In addition, the medium support portion 28 can be installed and removed relative to the position adjustment portion 59. That is, the medium support portion 28 can be installed and removed relative to the housing 11. The position adjustment portion 59 is equivalent to an example of a mounting portion.

[0062] Moving area 70 of head 33

[0063] Here, refer to Figures 3 to 6 , the moving area 70 of the head 33 is described.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown, the head 33 can move in a predetermined movement area 70. The movement area 70 includes an opposing area 71. That is, the head 33 can move in the opposing area 71. The opposing area 71 is an area where the nozzle surface of the head 33 faces the support surface 29. The opposing area 71 includes a printing area for printing on a medium.

[0065] The moving area 70 includes a standby position 72. The standby position 72 is a position where the head 33 is arranged when printing is not performed. The standby position 72 is an area where the nozzle surface of the head 33 is not opposite to the support surface 29. In other words, the standby position 72 is not included in the opposing area 71. The standby position 72 can be located on the first width direction X1 side and the rear Y2 side in the moving area 70. The standby position 72 is set closer to the first width direction X1 than the medium support portion 28.

[0066] The moving area 70 includes a maintenance area 73. The maintenance area 73 is located at Z1 above the maintenance unit 40. The maintenance area 73 is an area where the nozzle surface of the head 33 is not opposite to the support surface 29. In other words, the maintenance area 73 is not included in the opposing area 71. The maintenance area 73 is an area where the nozzle surface of the head 33 is opposite to the maintenance unit 40. Figure 3 The flushing unit 41 is omitted in the figure.

[0067] The moving area 70 includes the frontmost position 74. The frontmost position 74 is included in the maintenance area 73. That is, the frontmost position 74 is not included in the facing area 71. The frontmost position 74 is located on the first width direction X1 side and on the front Y1 side in the moving area 70. The frontmost position 74 is located Y1 forward of the standby position 72.

[0068] The moving area 70 includes a cleaning position 75. A portion of the head 33 disposed at the cleaning position 75 is included in the opposing area 71 when viewed from the upper side Z1. That is, a portion of the cleaning position 75 is included in the opposing area 71 when viewed from the upper side Z1. When viewed from the upper side Z1, the cleaning position 75 is located at the front side Y1 in the opposing area 71. When viewed from the upper side Z1, the cleaning position 75 is located at the rear side Y2 of the second opening 21.

[0069] The cleaning position 75 is a position to which the head 33 moves when the cleaning mode is controlled. The cleaning mode is a mode for cleaning the head 33. In the cleaning mode, the head 33 may be cleaned by, for example, wiping it with a cloth by the user.

[0070] In order to control the cleaning mode, when a movement instruction is input to the operation unit 27, the head 33 moves from the standby position 72 to the front direction Y1. As a result, the head 33 moves from the standby position 72 to the frontmost position 74 via the maintenance area 73 along the front-rear direction Y. In this case, when the head 33 moves from the standby position 72 to the frontmost position 74, the interference detection unit 58 can detect interference with the head 33. After reaching the frontmost position 74, the head 33 moves from the frontmost position 74 to the cleaning position 75 along the width direction X. The frontmost position 74 can also be said to be a relay position between the standby position 72 and the cleaning position 75.

[0071] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown in the cleaning mode, before the head 33 is moved from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75, the position adjustment unit 59 is moved from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75. Figure 4 The highest position shown is Figure 5 The highest position is the position where the medium support 28 mounted on the position adjustment unit 59 is at its highest position. The highest position is the position when the medium is placed on the medium support 28. The lowest position is the position where the medium support 28 mounted on the position adjustment unit 59 is at its lowest position. The cleaning mode is also a mode in which it is recommended to remove the medium support 28 from the position adjustment unit 59.

[0072] like Figure 5 as well as Figure 6As shown in FIG. 1 , when the head 33 is arranged at the cleaning position 75, there is a space 76 at the position Z2 below the head 33. Since the position adjustment unit 59 is moved to the lowest position and the medium support unit 28 is removed, the space 76 becomes wider. In addition, the space 76 is connected to the second opening 21. Therefore, the printing device 10 can easily clean the head 33 from the outside of the housing 11.

[0073] Electrical structure of printing device 10

[0074] Next, refer to Figure 7 , the electrical structure of the printing device 10 is described.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the printing device 10 includes a first driving unit 51 . The first driving unit 51 is a driving source that moves the carriage 34 along the width direction X. The first driving unit 51 may be provided in the first moving unit 36 ​​.

[0076] The printing device 10 includes a second driving unit 52 . The second driving unit 52 is a driving source that moves the first moving unit 36 ​​in the front-rear direction Y. The second driving unit 52 may be provided in the second moving unit 38 .

[0077] The printing device 10 includes a standby position detection unit 53. The standby position detection unit 53 can detect that the head 33 is disposed at the standby position 72. The standby position detection unit 53 may be provided in the first moving unit 36.

[0078] The printing device 10 includes a first movement position detection unit 54 . The first movement position detection unit 54 can detect the position in the width direction X where the head 33 moving in the width direction X is arranged. The first movement position detection unit 54 may be provided in the first moving unit 36 ​​.

[0079] The printing device 10 includes a front position detection unit 55. The front position detection unit 55 can detect that the head 33 is disposed at the frontmost position 74. The front position detection unit 55 can be provided in the second moving unit 38.

[0080] The printing device 10 includes a rear position detection unit 56 . The rear position detection unit 56 can detect that the head 33 is disposed at the rearmost position. The rear position detection unit 56 may be provided in the second moving unit 38 .

[0081] The printing device 10 includes a second movement position detection unit 57. The second movement position detection unit 57 can detect the position of the head 33 in the front-rear direction Y. The second movement position detection unit 57 can be provided in the second moving unit 38. That is, the second movement position detection unit 57 detects the position of the head 33 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0082] The printing device 10 includes an adjustment position detection unit 60. The adjustment position detection unit 60 can detect the position of the support surface 29 in the vertical direction Z. In other words, the adjustment position detection unit 60 is configured to detect the distance between the support surface 29 and the nozzle surface. The adjustment position detection unit 60 may be provided in the position adjustment unit 59.

[0083] The printing device 10 includes a cover driving unit 61. The cover driving unit 61 is a driving source for opening and closing the maintenance cover 44. In this way, the cover driving unit 61 displaces the maintenance cover 44 between the open position and the closed position. In other words, the cover driving unit 61 moves the maintenance cover 44.

[0084] The control unit 50 is connected to the display unit 26, the head 33, the first drive unit 51, the second drive unit 52, the position adjustment unit 59, the cover drive unit 61, the liquid supply unit 31, and the maintenance unit 40. The control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display various images. The control unit 50 controls the head 33, the first drive unit 51, the second drive unit 52, the position adjustment unit 59, the cover drive unit 61, the liquid supply unit 31, and the maintenance unit 40 by supplying a drive signal. In particular, the control unit 50 controls the first moving unit 36 ​​by controlling the first drive unit 51. The control unit 50 controls the second moving unit 38 by controlling the second drive unit 52. The control unit 50 controls the maintenance cover 44 by controlling the cover drive unit 61.

[0085] The control unit 50 is connected to the operation unit 27, the standby position detection unit 53, the first movement position detection unit 54, the front position detection unit 55, the rear position detection unit 56, the second movement position detection unit 57, the interference detection unit 58, and the adjustment position detection unit 60. The control unit 50 can receive an operation signal from the operation unit 27. The control unit 50 can receive detection signals from the standby position detection unit 53, the first movement position detection unit 54, the front position detection unit 55, the rear position detection unit 56, the second movement position detection unit 57, the interference detection unit 58, and the adjustment position detection unit 60.

[0086] The control unit 50 performs various controls based on the operation signal and the detection signal. For example, when a printing instruction is input, the control unit 50 controls the head 33, the first moving unit 36, and the second moving unit 38 based on the image data included in the printing instruction to print on the medium.

[0087] Cleaning mode control process

[0088] Next, refer to Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9Next, the cleaning mode control process will be described. The cleaning mode control process is a process executed by the control unit 50 in a predetermined cycle. Here, the order of each process can be arbitrarily replaced within the scope of the purpose of each process.

[0089] like Figure 8 As shown, in step S10, the control unit 50 determines whether a movement instruction is input based on the operation signal from the operation unit 27. The movement instruction is an instruction implemented by the user for controlling the cleaning mode. If the control unit 50 determines that the movement instruction is not input, the processing enters the Fig. 9 In step S21. When the control unit 50 determines that a movement instruction has been input, the process proceeds to step S11.

[0090] In step S11 , the control unit 50 executes a removal notification process. In the removal notification process, the control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image urging the medium support unit 28 to be removed from the position adjustment unit 59 .

[0091] In step S12, the control unit 50 determines whether an approval instruction is input based on the operation signal from the operation unit 27. The approval instruction indicates that the instruction to move the head 33 to the cleaning position 75 is accepted. The approval instruction is input after the user removes the medium support unit 28 from the position adjustment unit 59. If the control unit 50 determines that the approval instruction is not input, the process proceeds to step S11 again. If the control unit 50 determines that the approval instruction is input, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0092] In step S13, the control unit 50 performs a descending adjustment process. In the descending adjustment process, the control unit 50 controls so that the position adjustment unit 59 descends to the lowest position. Thus, when the head 33 moves to the cleaning position 75, the space 76 below the head 33 Z2 becomes wider.

[0093] In step S14, the control unit 50 performs a cover opening control process. In the cover opening control process, the control unit 50 controls the cover driving unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 from the closed position to the open position. In this way, when a movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 controls the cover driving unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 to the open position.

[0094] In step S15, the control unit 50 executes the forward movement control process. In the forward movement control process, the control unit 50 controls the second drive unit 52 so as to move the head 33 to the forward direction Y1.

[0095] In step S16, the control unit 50 determines whether interference with the head 33 is detected based on the detection signal from the interference detection unit 58. In this way, when the movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 determines the interference with the head 33 based on the detection result of the interference detection unit 58. When the control unit 50 determines that interference with the head 33 is detected, it determines that an error based on interference detection has occurred and enters the process into step S16. Fig. 9 On the other hand, when the control unit 50 determines that no interference with the head 33 is detected, the control unit 50 advances the processing to step S17.

[0096] In step S17, the control unit 50 determines whether the head 33 has reached the frontmost position 74 based on the detection signal from the front position detection unit 55. That is, the control unit 50 determines whether the detection process of the interference of the head 33 is completed by moving the interference detection unit 58 together with the head 33 to the front Y1 until the head 33 reaches the frontmost position 74 from the standby position 72. When the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has not reached the frontmost position 74, the process enters step S15 again. On the other hand, when the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has reached the frontmost position 74, the process enters step S18.

[0097] In step S18 , the control unit 50 executes the center movement control process. In the center movement control process, the control unit 50 controls the first drive unit 51 so as to move the head 33 in the second width direction X2 by the first moving unit 36 ​​.

[0098] In step S19, the control unit 50 determines whether the head 33 has reached the cleaning position 75 based on the detection signal from the first moving position detection unit 54. When the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has not reached the cleaning position 75, the process proceeds to step S18 again. When the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has reached the cleaning position 75, the process proceeds to step S20. In this way, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 in the second width direction X2 until the head 33 reaches the cleaning position 75.

[0099] In step S20, the control unit 50 executes a cleaning notification process. In the cleaning notification process, the control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image indicating that the head 33 has moved to the cleaning position 75. The control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image urging the head 33 to be cleaned.

[0100] Thus, when the movement instruction is input, the display unit 26 displays a message urging the user to remove the medium support unit 28 from the position adjustment unit 59, and the control unit 50 moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75. Furthermore, when the movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75 while the medium support unit 28 is lowered to the lowest position. In particular, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 so as to face the maintenance unit 40 while the head 33 is moving from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75.

[0101] like Fig. 9 As shown, in step S21, the control unit 50 determines whether an end instruction is input based on the operation signal from the operation unit 27. The end instruction is an instruction implemented by the user to end the cleaning mode. When the control unit 50 determines that the end instruction is not input, it ends the cleaning control process. When the control unit 50 determines that the end instruction is input, it causes the process to enter step S22.

[0102] In step S22 , the control unit 50 performs a return control process. In the return control process, the control unit 50 controls the first drive unit 51 so that the head 33 moves in the first width direction X1 by the first moving unit 36 ​​.

[0103] In step S23, the control unit 50 determines whether the head 33 has reached the frontmost position 74 based on the detection signal from the first movement position detection unit 54. When the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has not reached the frontmost position 74, the process proceeds to step S22 again. When the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has reached the frontmost position 74, the process proceeds to step S24. In this way, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 in the first width direction X1 until the head 33 reaches the frontmost position 74.

[0104] In step S24, the control unit 50 executes the rearward movement control process. In the rearward movement control process, the control unit 50 controls the second drive unit 52 so as to move the head 33 to the rear direction Y2.

[0105] In step S25, the control unit 50 determines whether the head 33 has reached the standby position 72 based on the detection signal from the rear position detection unit 56. If the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has not reached the standby position 72, the process proceeds to step S24 again. On the other hand, if the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has reached the standby position 72, the process proceeds to step S26.

[0106] In step S26, the control unit 50 performs a cover closing control process. In the cover closing drive process, the control unit 50 controls the cover drive unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 from the open position to the closed position. In this way, when the end instruction is input, the control unit 50 controls the cover drive unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 to the closed position.

[0107] In step S27 , the control unit 50 performs a lifting adjustment process. In the lifting adjustment process, the control unit 50 controls the position adjustment unit 59 to lift to the highest position. Thus, when the medium support unit 28 is attached to the position adjustment unit 59 , the medium can be easily placed on the medium support unit 28 .

[0108] In step S28 , the control unit 50 executes the installation notification process. In the installation notification process, the control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image urging the medium supporting unit 28 to be installed on the position adjusting unit 59 .

[0109] In step S29, the control unit 50 determines whether an error has occurred based on interference detection. If the control unit 50 determines that an error has not occurred, the cleaning control process ends. If the control unit 50 determines that an error has occurred, the process proceeds to step S30.

[0110] In step S30 , the control unit 50 executes an error notification process. In the error notification process, the control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image indicating that an error due to interference detection has occurred. The control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image urging the removal of the interfering object with the head 33 .

[0111] Function of the first embodiment

[0112] The operation of the first embodiment will be described.

[0113] When the user inputs a movement instruction by operating the operation unit 27, the display unit 26 displays an image urging the medium support unit 28 to be removed. After the medium support unit 28 is removed from the position adjustment unit 59 by the user, when the user inputs an approval instruction by operating the operation unit 27, the position adjustment unit 59 is lowered to the lowest position, and the maintenance cover 44 moves to the open position. Then, the head 33 starts to move from the standby position 72 to the frontmost position 74. On the way from the standby position 72 to the frontmost position 74, the head 33 passes through the maintenance area 73.

[0114] If interference with the head 33 is detected based on the detection result of the interference detection unit 58 while the head 33 moves from the standby position 72 to the frontmost position 74, the head 33 returns to the standby position 72 and an image indicating that an error due to interference detection has occurred is displayed.

[0115] When no error due to interference detection occurs and the head 33 reaches the frontmost position 74, the head 33 moves from the frontmost position 74 to the cleaning position 75. When the head 33 is arranged at the cleaning position 75, the display unit 26 displays an image urging the head 33 to be cleaned. Thus, the head 33 moves from the standby position 72 not included in the facing area 71 to the cleaning position 75 included in the facing area 71.

[0116] When the head 33 is arranged at the cleaning position 75, the space 76 at Z2 below the head 33 is expanded. In particular, when the head 33 is arranged at the cleaning position 75, the medium support portion 28 is not arranged at Z2 below the head 33, and the position adjustment portion 59 is arranged at the lowest position. Therefore, compared with when printing on the medium, the space 76 at Z2 below the head 33 becomes wider. Even if a dedicated maintenance area is not arranged, it is possible to ensure space for maintaining the head 33. In addition, the cleaning position 75 is located at Y2 behind the second opening portion 21. Therefore, the cleaning of the head 33 by the user is also easy to perform from the outside of the housing 11.

[0117] When the user operates the operation unit 27 and inputs an end instruction, the head 33 moves from the cleaning position 75 to the frontmost position 74. When the head 33 reaches the frontmost position 74, the head 33 moves from the frontmost position 74 to the standby position 72. Then, the position adjustment unit 59 rises to the highest position, and the maintenance cover 44 moves to the closed position. In addition, the display unit 26 displays an image urging the medium support unit 28 to be installed on the position adjustment unit 59. Then, the user installs the medium support unit 28 on the position adjustment unit 59.

[0118] Effects of the First Embodiment

[0119] The effects of the first embodiment will be described.

[0120] (1) When a movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 not included in the facing area 71 to the cleaning position 75 included in the facing area 71. According to this configuration, even if a cleaning position is not provided in an area not included in the facing area 71, the head 33 can be cleaned by moving the head 33 to the cleaning position 75 included in the facing area 71. In addition, the user is urged to remove the medium support unit 28 from the position adjustment unit 59, and if the medium support unit 28 is removed from the position adjustment unit 59, the space 76 for cleaning the head 33 can be enlarged between the head 33 and the position adjustment unit 59. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device 10.

[0121] (2) When the movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75 while the medium support unit 28 is lowered to the lowest position. According to this configuration, even if the cleaning position 75 is not provided in an area not included in the facing area 71, the head 33 can be cleaned by moving the head 33 to the cleaning position 75 included in the facing area 71. In addition, by lowering the medium support unit 28 to a position Z2 below the highest position, a space 76 for cleaning the head 33 can be secured between the head 33 and the medium support unit 28. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device 10.

[0122] (3) The opening 19 opens a part of the top surface 16 and a part of the front surface 12. The cleaning position 75 is located on the front Y1 side in the facing area 71. According to this structure, by moving the head 33 to the cleaning position 75 included in the facing area 71, it becomes easy to clean the head 33 from the outside of the housing 11 through the opening 19. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device 10.

[0123] (4) When the movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 so as to face the maintenance unit 40 while moving the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75. According to this configuration, even if liquid drips from the head 33, it is possible to suppress the liquid from scattering inside the housing 11, as compared with a case where the head 33 is moved so as not to face the maintenance unit 40. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved.

[0124] (5) The maintenance cover 44 can move between an open position for opening the maintenance section 40 and a closed position for closing the maintenance section 40. When a movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 controls the cover driving unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 to the open position. According to this structure, by moving the maintenance cover 44 to the closed position, it is possible to suppress the drying of the maintenance section 40. Moreover, when a movement instruction is input, by moving the maintenance cover 44 to the open position, the maintenance section 40 can be opposed to the head 33. Thus, when the head 33 moves in the maintenance area 73, even if liquid drips from the head 33, it is possible to suppress the liquid from the head 33 from scattering inside the printing device 10. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved.

[0125] (6) The interference detection unit 58 is linked to the movement of the head 33 in the front-rear direction Y, and detects interference with the head 33. When a movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 determines the interference with the head 33 based on the detection result of the interference detection unit 58. According to this structure, the head 33 can be moved in consideration of the interference with the head 33. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved.

[0126] Change Example

[0127] The present embodiment can be modified and implemented as follows. The present embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other within the range that there is no technical contradiction.

[0128] When a movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 may not lower the medium support unit 28 to the lowest position. When a movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 may not control the maintenance cover 44 to the open position.

[0129] The medium support unit 28 may be fixed to the position adjustment unit 59. In other words, the medium support unit 28 may not be attachable to or detachable from the position adjustment unit 59. In this case, the control unit 50 preferably moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75 while the medium support unit 28 is lowered.

[0130] The control unit 50 may also execute the lowering adjustment process after the lid opening control process is completed. The control unit 50 may also execute the lowering adjustment process and the lid opening control process in the same period. The control unit 50 may also execute the lid closing control process after the raising adjustment process is completed. The control unit 50 may also execute the raising adjustment process and the lid closing control process in the same period.

[0131] The standby position 72 and the frontmost position 74 may also be located at a position closer to the second width direction X2 than the facing area 71. Although the frontmost position 74 is used as a relay position, it is not limited to this. For example, a position Y2 further back than the frontmost position 74 may be used as a relay position. In other words, the relay position may not be the frontmost position 74.

[0132] The entire cleaning position 75 may be included in the facing area 71. In other words, a part or all of the cleaning position 75 may be included in the facing area 71. A part or all of the cleaning position 75 may be included in the facing area 71 based on the largest medium support portion 28 of the medium support portion 28 that can be attached to and detached from the position adjustment portion 59 of the printing device 10. In other words, a part or all of the cleaning position 75 may not be included in the facing area 71 based on the medium support portion 28 that is not the largest medium support portion 28 of the medium support portion 28 that can be attached to and detached from the position adjustment portion 59 of the printing device 10.

[0133] Various instructions issued by the user may be inputted according to the operation of a terminal device capable of communicating with the printing device 10. In such a case, the communication unit capable of communicating with the printing device 10 corresponds to an example of the input unit.

[0134] The medium support unit 28 may be arranged at a position lower than the highest position before the movement instruction is input. In the cleaning mode, the position adjustment unit 59 may be displaced so that the medium support unit 28 is lowered to a position higher than the lowest position.

[0135] As long as the medium supporting part 28 can be attached and detached, the position adjusting part 59 does not need to adjust the position of the medium supporting part 28 in the vertical direction Z. In other words, the position adjusting part 59 only needs to be a mounting part that can attach and detach the medium supporting part 28 .

[0136] The maintenance unit 40 may be located at a position in the second width direction X2 of the medium support unit 28 in the moving region 70. The standby position 72 may be located at a position in the second width direction X2 of the medium support unit 28 in the moving region 70. The standby position 72 may be located at a position Y1 in front of the moving region 70.

[0137] The first opening 20 and the second opening 21 may not be formed in a continuous manner, but may be provided separately. The opening 19 may be provided so as not to span the top surface 16 and the front surface 12 .

[0138] The opening 19 may be provided so as to extend across the top surface 16, the front surface 12, and other surfaces. In other words, the opening 19 may be provided so as to extend across at least the top surface 16 and the front surface 12. In addition, the opening 19 may be provided on the top surface 16 instead of on the front surface 12. In other words, the opening 19 only needs to be provided on at least the top surface 16.

[0139] The second opening 21 may be provided on any of the back surface 13, the left side surface 14, and the right side surface 15. That is, any of the back surface 13, the left side surface 14, and the right side surface 15 may also be equivalent to an example of a side surface. In such a case, the cleaning position 75 may also be allocated at the position where the second opening 21 is provided.

[0140] The support surface 29 is configured not to move in the horizontal direction, but may be configured to be finely adjusted in the horizontal direction only when printing is not performed, as long as it is configured not to move in the horizontal direction at least when printing is performed.

[0141] When viewed from the upper side Z1 , the first opening 20 may be longer than the support surface 29 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0142] The printing unit 32 may perform printing when the head 33 moves in either the first width direction X1 or the second width direction X2 , or may perform printing when the head 33 moves in the first width direction X1 and when the head 33 moves in the second width direction X2 .

[0143] The head 33 may include a nozzle surface parallel to the horizontal plane, or may include a nozzle surface inclined with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0144] The maintenance unit 40 may not include at least any one of the rinse unit 41 , the wiping unit 42 , the suction unit 43 , and the waste liquid tank.

[0145] When delivering information to the user or urging the user to take action, the control unit 50 may notify the user by other methods such as sound instead of displaying an image on the display unit 26. That is, the notification unit may notify the user by using a combination of multiple methods such as images and sounds.

[0146] The relationship between the width direction X and the front-rear direction Y in this embodiment may be interchanged. That is, the width direction X in this embodiment may be the front-rear direction Y, and the front-rear direction Y in this embodiment may be the width direction X.

[0147] The medium is not limited to T-shirts, polo shirts, etc., but may be training suits, hoodies, etc., or may be a medium for bedding. In addition, as the medium, a flexible medium may be used, but is not limited thereto. For example, a non-flexible medium such as a smartphone case printed with UV ink may be used.

[0148] The printing device 10 is configured to discharge ink as an example of liquid, but may be configured to discharge liquid other than ink. In other words, any liquid may be selected as long as it is a substance that can be printed on a medium by adhering to the medium.

[0149] The expression "at least any one" used in this specification means more than one desired option. As an example, the expression "at least any one" used in this specification means only one option or both of the two options if the number of options is two. As another example, the expression "at least any one" used in this specification means only one option or a combination of two or more optional options if the number of options is three or more.

[0150] Notes

[0151] Hereinafter, technical ideas and effects that can be grasped from the above-mentioned embodiments and modified examples will be described.

[0152] (A) The printing device comprises: an installation portion, which can be installed and removed by a medium support portion, and the medium support portion has a support surface for supporting the medium; a head, which can spray liquid onto the medium supported on the support surface; a first moving portion, which moves the head along a first direction parallel to the support surface; a second moving portion, which moves the head along a second direction parallel to the support surface and intersecting with the first direction; a control portion, which controls the first moving portion and the second moving portion; an input portion, which can input instructions implemented by a user; and a notification portion, which notifies information that the head can move in an opposing area opposite to the support surface, and when a movement instruction is input to the input portion, the notification portion notifies the user to remove the medium support portion from the installation portion, and the control portion moves the head from a standby position that is not included in the opposing area to a cleaning position that is partially or completely included in the opposing area.

[0153] According to this structure, even if a cleaning position is not provided in an area not included in the facing area, the head can be cleaned by moving the head to the cleaning position included in the facing area. In addition, the user is urged to remove the medium support part from the mounting part, and if the medium support part is removed from the mounting part, the space for cleaning the head can be enlarged between the head and the mounting part. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device.

[0154] (B) The printing device comprises: a medium supporting portion having a supporting surface for supporting a medium; a position adjusting portion for adjusting the position of the medium supporting portion in a vertical direction; a head capable of ejecting liquid onto the medium supported on the supporting surface; a first moving portion for moving the head along a first direction parallel to the supporting surface; a second moving portion for moving the head along a second direction parallel to the supporting surface and intersecting the first direction; a control portion for controlling the first moving portion and the second moving portion; an input portion for inputting instructions implemented by a user, the head being capable of moving in an opposing area opposing the supporting surface, and when a movement instruction is input to the input portion, the control portion moves the head from a standby position not included in the opposing area to a cleaning position partially or fully included in the opposing area while lowering the medium supporting portion to a position lower than a highest position.

[0155] According to this structure, even if a cleaning position is not provided in an area not included in the facing area, the head can be cleaned by moving the head to the cleaning position included in the facing area. In addition, by lowering the medium support portion to a position lower than the highest position, a space for cleaning the head can be ensured between the head and the medium support portion. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device.

[0156] (C) The above-mentioned printing device can also be configured to include a shell, which at least accommodates the medium supporting part, the head, the first moving part and the second moving part, the shell has a top surface, a side surface and an opening portion, the opening portion opens a portion of the top surface and a portion of the side surface, and the cleaning position is located on the side surface of the opening portion in the opposing area.

[0157] According to this configuration, by moving the head to the cleaning position included in the facing area, it becomes easy to clean the head from the outside of the housing through the opening. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device.

[0158] (D) The above-mentioned printing device can also be configured to include a maintenance unit that performs maintenance on the head, the maintenance unit is located in one direction closer to the first direction than the medium supporting unit, the standby position is located in one direction closer to the first direction than the medium supporting unit, and when a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit moves the head in a manner opposite to the maintenance unit while moving the head from the standby position to the cleaning position.

[0159] According to this configuration, when the head moves so as to face the maintenance unit, even if liquid drips from the head, it is possible to suppress the liquid from the head from scattering inside the printing device. Therefore, it is possible to improve maintainability.

[0160] (E) The above-mentioned printing device can also be configured to include a maintenance cover and a cover driving unit, wherein the maintenance cover is capable of moving between an open position for opening the maintenance unit and a closed position for closing the maintenance unit, and the cover driving unit moves the maintenance cover, and when a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit controls the cover driving unit to move the maintenance cover to the open position.

[0161] According to this structure, by moving the maintenance cover to the closed position, it is possible to suppress drying of the maintenance section. Furthermore, when a movement instruction is input, by moving the maintenance cover to the open position, the maintenance section can be opposed to the head. Thus, when the head moves in the maintenance area, even if liquid drips from the head, it is possible to suppress the liquid from the head from scattering inside the printing device. Therefore, it is possible to improve maintainability.

[0162] (F) The above-mentioned printing device can also be configured to include an interference detection unit, which detects interference with the head, and the interference detection unit is linked to the movement of the head in the second direction. When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit determines the interference with the head based on the detection result of the interference detection unit.

[0163] According to this structure, when a movement instruction is input, interference with the head can be determined in conjunction with moving the head in the second direction. Thus, the head can be moved in consideration of the interference with the head. Therefore, maintainability can be improved.

[0164] (G) A control method for a printing device is that, when a movement instruction implemented by a user is input, a notification unit of the printing device notifies the user to remove a medium support unit having a support surface for supporting a medium, and the control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of ejecting liquid to the medium supported on the medium support unit along a first direction parallel to the support surface and a second direction parallel to the support surface and intersecting the first direction, thereby moving the head from a standby position not included in an opposing area facing the support surface to a cleaning position not partially or completely included in the opposing area. According to this structure, the same effect as the above (A) is achieved.

[0165] (H) A control method for a printing device is that, when a movement instruction is inputted by a user, a control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of ejecting liquid to the medium in a first direction parallel to the supporting surface and in a second direction parallel to the supporting surface and intersecting the first direction, while lowering a medium supporting unit having a supporting surface for supporting the medium to a position lower than a highest position, so as to move the head from a standby position not included in an opposing area facing the supporting surface to a cleaning position partially or completely included in the opposing area. According to this structure, the same effect as that of the above (B) is achieved.

[0166] Explanation of symbols

[0167] X…width direction; X1…first width direction; X2…second width direction; Y…front-rear direction; Y1…front; Y2…rear; Z…vertical direction; Z1…upper; Z2…lower; 10…printing device; 11…housing; 12…front surface; 13…back; 14…left side; 15…right side; 16…top surface; 17…bottom surface; 18…housing frame; 19…opening; 20…first opening; 21…second opening; 22…opening and closing cover; 23…first opening and closing cover; 24…second opening and closing cover; 25…gripping part; 26…display part; 27…operating part; 28…medium supporting part; 29…supporting surface; 30…medium storage part; 31…liquid supply part; 32…printing part; 33…head; 34…slide; 35…moving part; 36…first moving part part; 37…first guide part; 38…second moving part; 39…second guide part; 40…maintenance part; 41…rinsing part; 42…wiping part; 43…suction part; 44…maintenance cover; 45…cover storage part; 50…control part; 51…first drive part; 52…second drive part; 53…standby position detection part; 54…first moving position detection part; 55…front position detection part; 56…rear position detection part; 57…second moving position detection part; 58…interference detection part; 58A…light-projecting part; 58B…light-receiving part; 59…position adjustment part; 60…adjustment position detection part; 61…cover drive part; 70…moving area; 71…opposing area; 72…standby position; 73…maintenance area; 74…forward position; 75…cleaning position; 76…space.

Claims

1. A printing device, characterized in that: have: A mounting portion, which can be installed and removed by a medium supporting portion, wherein the medium supporting portion has a supporting surface for supporting the medium; a head capable of spraying liquid toward the medium supported on the supporting surface; a first moving portion that moves the head along a first direction parallel to the supporting surface; a second moving portion that moves the head in a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects the first direction; a control unit configured to control the first moving unit and the second moving unit; an input unit capable of inputting instructions implemented by a user; Notification Department, its notification information, The head is movable in an area opposite to the support surface, When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the notification unit notifies the user to remove the medium support unit from the installation unit, and the control unit moves the head from a standby position that is not included in the opposing area to a cleaning position that is partially or completely included in the opposing area.

2. A printing device, characterized in that: have: A medium supporting portion having a supporting surface for supporting the medium; A position adjustment unit for adjusting the position of the medium support unit in a vertical direction; a head capable of spraying liquid toward the medium supported on the supporting surface; a first moving portion that moves the head along a first direction parallel to the supporting surface; a second moving portion that moves the head in a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects the first direction; a control unit configured to control the first moving unit and the second moving unit; an input unit capable of inputting instructions implemented by a user, The head is movable in an area opposite to the support surface, When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit moves the head from a standby position not included in the facing area to a cleaning position partially or entirely included in the facing area while lowering the medium support unit to a position below a highest position.

3. The printing device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that: A housing is provided, wherein the housing at least houses the medium supporting portion, the head, the first moving portion, and the second moving portion. The housing has a top surface, side surfaces and an opening. The opening portion opens a portion of the top surface and a portion of the side surface. The cleaning position is located on the side surface side of the opening in the opposing region.

4. The printing device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that: A maintenance unit is provided, and the maintenance unit performs maintenance on the head. The maintenance portion is located closer to the medium support portion in one direction in the first direction. The standby position is located closer to the medium supporting portion in one direction in the first direction. When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit moves the head so as to face the maintenance unit while the head is being moved from the standby position to the cleaning position.

5. The printing device according to claim 4, characterized in that Equipped with maintenance cover and cover drive unit, The maintenance cover is movable between an open position for opening the maintenance portion and a closed position for closing the maintenance portion. The cover driving unit moves the maintenance cover. When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit controls the cover driving unit to move the maintenance cover to the open position.

6. The printing device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that: An interference detection unit is provided, the interference detection unit detects interference with the head, The interference detection unit is linked to the movement of the head in the second direction. When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit determines interference with the head based on a detection result of the interference detection unit.

7. A method for controlling a printing device, characterized in that: When a movement instruction implemented by the user is input, the notification unit of the printing device notifies the user to remove the medium supporting unit having a supporting surface for supporting the medium, and the control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of spraying liquid toward the medium supported on the medium supporting unit from a standby position that is not included in an opposing area opposite to the supporting surface to a cleaning position that is partially or fully included in the opposing area by moving the head along a first direction parallel to the supporting surface and a second direction parallel to the supporting surface and intersecting the first direction.

8. A method for controlling a printing device, characterized in that: When a movement instruction is input by the user, the control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of spraying liquid onto the medium from a standby position that is not included in an opposing area opposite to the supporting surface to a cleaning position that is partially or fully included in the opposing area by moving the head along a first direction parallel to the supporting surface and a second direction parallel to the supporting surface and intersecting the first direction while lowering a medium supporting portion having a supporting surface that supports the medium to a position lower than a highest position.

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