Inkjet recording apparatus

Abstract

A first linear motion device (50) relatively moves the carriage (40) and the recording medium (20) in a first coordinate axis direction. A rotation device (75) rotates the carriage (40) about a rotation axis (R) in a third coordinate axis direction. The inkjet head (30) is disposed on a first side in a vertical direction (V) with respect to a recording surface (21), and ejects ink from a plurality of nozzles (31) toward a second side in the vertical direction (V) in a moving state in which the carriage (40) and the recording medium (20) are relatively moved. The plurality of nozzles (31) are disposed on an ejection surface (32) in the third coordinate axis direction. A second linear motion device (60) relatively moves the carriage (40) and the recording medium (20) in a second coordinate axis direction in the moving state. The rotation device (75) rotates the carriage (40) about a rotation axis (R) disposed at a position coincident with the ejection surface (32) in the vertical direction (V) or a position on the second side of the ejection surface (32) in the moving state.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a printing apparatus. The printing apparatus prints a predetermined image by ejecting droplets from a workpiece having a three-dimensional curved surface. The printing apparatus includes a printing unit, a workpiece driving unit, and a control unit. The printing apparatus has a stand and a gantry-shaped frame. The frame is erected from the stand. The workpiece driving unit is mounted on the stand. The printing unit is mounted on the frame. The printing unit is positioned above the printing surface of the workpiece. The printing unit has an X-axis linear motion mechanism and multiple inkjet units. The X-axis linear motion mechanism is mounted on the frame. The multiple inkjet units are respectively mounted on the X-axis linear motion mechanism. The multiple inkjet units move separately along the main scanning direction via the X-axis linear motion mechanism. The X-axis linear motion mechanism is composed of a linear motor-type drive mechanism. The X-axis linear motion mechanism drives the multiple inkjet units individually along the X direction. The inkjet units eject droplets toward the workpiece while moving along the main scanning direction, thereby printing an image on the surface of the workpiece. The workpiece driving unit moves the workpiece relative to the inkjet units. Images are also printed along a sub-scanning direction. The sub-scanning direction is orthogonal to the main scanning direction. The inkjet unit has a head and a curing section. The curing section cures the ink. A fixture is mounted at the front end of the workpiece drive unit. The workpiece is fixed on the fixture. The workpiece drive unit transports the workpiece fixed to the fixture downwards towards the printing unit. The workpiece drive unit has four drive mechanisms: a Y-axis linear motion mechanism, a Z-axis linear motion mechanism, an A-axis rotary mechanism, and a B-axis rotary mechanism. The Y-axis linear motion mechanism is mounted on a stage and moves the workpiece along the sub-scanning direction. The Z-axis linear motion mechanism is mounted on the Y-axis linear motion mechanism and moves the workpiece vertically. The A-axis rotary mechanism rotates the workpiece around the A-axis. The A-axis extends along the X-direction. The fixture is mounted on the B-axis rotary mechanism. The B-axis rotary mechanism rotates the workpiece around the B-axis. The B-axis extends along the Z-direction. The workpiece drive unit moves the workpiece downwards towards the inkjet unit by operating the Y-axis linear motion mechanism, the Z-axis linear motion mechanism, the A-axis rotary mechanism, and the B-axis rotary mechanism. The position and orientation of the workpiece are adjusted by the workpiece drive unit. Furthermore, the workpiece drive unit has drive mechanisms for five axes: a Y-axis linear motion mechanism, a Z-axis linear motion mechanism, an A-axis rotary mechanism, a B-axis rotary mechanism, and a C-axis rotary mechanism. The C-axis rotary mechanism rotates the workpiece around the C-axis, which extends along the Z-direction. By increasing the number of drive mechanisms in the workpiece drive unit, the range of workpiece posture adjustment can be further expanded.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-88110 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] Inkjet recording devices eject ink from multiple nozzles in an inkjet head onto the surface of a recording medium, recording a pattern on the recording surface. Examples of recording media include the housings (outlets) of electrical equipment, interior and exterior materials for vehicles and buildings, and furniture. In other words, the recording medium becomes a component forming various products, or a component for various products, in the state of having a pattern recorded on its recording surface. In such recording media, the recording surface sometimes has a three-dimensional shape.

[0008] The inventors have researched a technique for recording patterns using an inkjet recording device that matches a recording surface having a three-dimensional shape. This shape has a surface shape that differs in position along a first coordinate axis and a second coordinate axis, and extends along a third coordinate axis. Examples of surface shapes differing in position along the second coordinate axis include stepped, convex, and concave shapes. The second coordinate axis is orthogonal to the first coordinate axis. The third coordinate axis is orthogonal to both the first and second coordinate axes.

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to provide an inkjet recording device capable of recording patterns that match the recording surface of a recording medium.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] One aspect of the present invention provides an inkjet recording apparatus comprising: an inkjet head including a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink onto a recording surface of a recording medium; a carriage carrying the inkjet head; a first direct-action device for moving the carriage and the recording medium relative to each other in a first coordinate axis direction; a second direct-action device for moving the carriage and the recording medium relative to each other in a second coordinate axis direction orthogonal to the first coordinate axis direction; and a rotation device for rotating the carriage about a rotation axis along a third coordinate axis direction orthogonal to both the first and second coordinate axis directions, wherein the inkjet head is disposed relative to the recording surface in a carriage including the plurality of nozzles. The ink is ejected from a plurality of nozzles toward a second side opposite to the first side in the vertical direction, on a first side perpendicular to the ejection surface, and in a moving state in which the carriage and the recording medium move relative to each other along the first coordinate axis via the first linear motion device. The plurality of nozzles are disposed on the ejection surface along the third coordinate axis. In the moving state, the second linear motion device causes the carriage and the recording medium to move relative to each other in the second coordinate axis direction. In the moving state, the rotation device causes the carriage to rotate around the rotation axis as a center. The rotation axis is set at a position in the vertical direction that coincides with the ejection surface or at a position that is a second side closer to the ejection surface.

[0012] Alternatively, the rotating device can cause the carriage to rotate about the rotating axis, which is set at a position in the vertical direction that coincides with the ejection surface.

[0013] Alternatively, the inkjet recording device may include a third linear motion device that moves the carriage and the recording medium relative to each other in the direction of the third coordinate axis.

[0014] According to the inkjet recording apparatus described above, the inkjet head and carriage can rotate together around a rotation axis in a moving state. For example, the recording surface has a stepped shape. This stepped shape is positioned differently in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction, and is along the third coordinate axis direction. Even in this case, in this inkjet recording apparatus, a constant distance can be maintained between the ejection surface and the recording surface in a moving state, the ejection surface can be along the recording surface, and the carriage and the recording medium can move relative to each other along the first coordinate axis direction. In this inkjet recording apparatus, ink ejection control becomes easier.

[0015] Alternatively, the inkjet recording device may include a third linear motion device that supports the carriage and moves the carriage in the direction of the third coordinate axis, and a second linear motion device that moves the carriage in the direction of the second coordinate axis. The rotating device includes: a first support member that supports the third linear motion device; a drive motor connected to the first support member and generating a driving force that rotates the first support member about the rotation axis; and a second support member on which the drive motor is disposed and supports the first support member so that it can rotate freely about the rotation axis. The first support member includes: a first frame that extends along the third coordinate axis. The coordinate axis direction is set; a second frame is set along the vertical direction on the third side of the third coordinate axis direction of the first frame and connected to the first frame on the first side of the vertical direction; and a third frame is set along the vertical direction on the fourth side of the third coordinate axis direction of the first frame and connected to the first frame on the first side of the vertical direction, and connected to the second support member through the second frame, and connected to the drive motor through the third frame, the second linear motion device is connected to the rotating device through the second support member, so that the rotating device moves in the second coordinate axis direction.

[0016] According to this structure, compared to the inkjet recording apparatus of the comparative example below, the size of the inkjet recording apparatus in the third coordinate axis direction can be miniaturized. In the inkjet recording apparatus of the comparative example, the rotating device that rotates the carriage moves together with the carriage in the third coordinate axis direction. In the inkjet recording apparatus of the comparative example, the moving object in the third coordinate axis direction includes the rotating device, therefore it is necessary to increase the size of the following region in the third coordinate axis direction. This region is necessary for the moving object to move in the third coordinate axis direction. In other words, this region becomes the movement path when the moving object moves in the third coordinate axis direction. In the above structure, the rotating device does not move in the third coordinate axis direction, therefore the size increase as seen in the inkjet recording apparatus of the comparative example is not achieved.

[0017] Invention Effects

[0018] According to the present invention, an inkjet recording apparatus is available that can record patterns in a manner that matches the recording surface of the recording medium. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an example of the schematic structure of an inkjet recording apparatus. It shows the state during pattern recording. It shows the state where the carriage and recording medium move relative to each other along the first coordinate axis, and the inkjet head ejects ink onto the first surface of the recording surface.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a partial cross-sectional front view showing a portion of an example of the schematic structure of an inkjet recording apparatus during recording operations, omitting the pattern. It shows the state where the carriage and recording medium are moved relative to each other along the first coordinate axis, and the inkjet head ejects ink onto the first surface of the recording surface. It also shows the state of the inkjet recording apparatus as viewed from a fourth side along the third coordinate axis.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a partial cross-sectional front view showing a portion of an example of the schematic structure of an inkjet recording apparatus during recording operations, omitting the pattern. It shows the state where the carriage and recording medium are moved relative to each other along the first coordinate axis, and the inkjet head ejects ink onto the inclined surface of the recording surface. It also shows the state of the inkjet recording apparatus as viewed from a fourth side along the third coordinate axis.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional front view showing a portion of an example of the schematic structure of an inkjet recording apparatus during recording operations, omitting the pattern. It shows the state where the carriage and recording medium are moved relative to each other along the first coordinate axis, and the inkjet head ejects ink onto the second surface of the recording surface. It also shows the state of the inkjet recording apparatus as viewed from a fourth side along the third coordinate axis.

[0023] Figure 5This is a partial cross-sectional side view illustrating an example of the schematic structure of an inkjet recording apparatus during pattern recording. It shows the state where the carriage and recording medium are moved relative to each other along the first coordinate axis, and the inkjet head ejects ink onto the first surface of the recording surface. It also shows the state of the inkjet recording apparatus as viewed from the fifth side along the first coordinate axis.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional side view illustrating an example of the schematic structure of an inkjet recording apparatus during pattern recording. It shows the state in which the carriage and recording medium move relative to each other along the first coordinate axis, and the inkjet head ejects ink onto the first surface of the recording surface. It indicates that... Figure 5 The image shows the state of the inkjet recording device as viewed from the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis, based on the carriage and the recording medium as references, after the carriage has moved one transport distance relative to the recording medium in the direction of the third coordinate axis.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a bottom view showing an example of the general structure of an inkjet head. The nozzle surface represents the ejection surface of the inkjet head.

[0026] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the relative movement of the carriage and the recording medium along the first coordinate axis. The upper section corresponds to the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example, with the rotation axis set at a position in the vertical direction closer to the first side than the ejection surface. The lower section corresponds to the inkjet recording apparatus of the embodiment, with the rotation axis set at a position in the vertical direction aligned with the ejection surface. This shows the state of the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example and the inkjet recording apparatus of the embodiment as viewed from a fourth side along the third coordinate axis. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described using the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not limited to the structures described below, and various structures can be employed under the same technical concept. For example, a portion of the structures shown below may be omitted or replaced with other structures. The present invention may also include other structures. The drawings schematically represent predetermined structures. Correspondences between the drawings and other drawings, or with the numerical values ​​described later that determine the structures in the drawings, may sometimes be inaccurate. Shaded lines indicate cross-sections. Single-dotted lines are center lines. Double-dotted lines are imaginary lines.

[0028] <Inkjet Recording Device 10>

[0029] Reference Figures 1-7 The inkjet recording apparatus 10 will be described. In this embodiment, the inkjet recording apparatus 10 is defined by the first coordinate axis direction, the second coordinate axis direction, the third coordinate axis direction, and the vertical direction V. Regarding the recording medium 20, it is also assumed to be disposed within the inkjet recording apparatus 10 (see reference). Figure 1Using the first, second, and third coordinate axes as a reference, the direction is determined by the direction of the first, second, and third coordinate axes. The direction of the second coordinate axis is orthogonal to the direction of the first coordinate axis. The direction of the third coordinate axis is orthogonal to both the direction of the first and second coordinate axes. The direction of the second coordinate axis is defined as the vertical direction. In this case, the directions of the first and third coordinate axes are horizontal directions. One side of the vertical direction V is called the "first side," and the other side of the vertical direction V opposite to the first side is called the "second side." One side of the third coordinate axis is called the "third side," and the other side of the third coordinate axis direction opposite to the third side is called the "fourth side." One side of the first coordinate axis is called the "fifth side," and the other side of the first coordinate axis direction opposite to the fifth side is called the "sixth side." One side of the second coordinate axis is called the "seventh side," and the other side of the second coordinate axis direction opposite to the seventh side is called the "eighth side." The seventh side of the second coordinate axis is defined as the upper vertical direction, and the eighth side of the second coordinate axis is defined as the lower vertical direction. The vertical direction V will be described later.

[0030] The inkjet recording device 10 includes an inkjet head 30, a carriage 40, a first direct motion device 50, a second direct motion device 60, a rotary device 75, and a third direct motion device 90 (see reference). Figure 1 In addition, the inkjet recording device 10 includes a stand 11, a main tank 12, and an ink flow path 13. A second direct-acting device 60 is provided on the stand 11 (see reference). Figures 1-5 Main tank 12 stores ink (refer to...) Figure 5 , 6 Ink flow path 13 connects to main tank 12 and inkjet head 30 (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6). Ink flows from the main tank 12 through the ink flow path 13 and is supplied to the inkjet head 30.

[0031] exist Figures 2-4 The diagrams of the main tank 12 and the ink flow path 13 are omitted. Figure 1 , 5 In section 6, the ink flow path 13 is simplified. The ink flow path 13 has a configuration capable of accommodating the movement of the inkjet head 30 towards the second coordinate axis, the movement of the inkjet head 30 towards the third coordinate axis, and the rotation of the inkjet head 30 around the rotation axis R. The movement of the inkjet head 30 towards the second coordinate axis, the movement of the inkjet head 30 towards the third coordinate axis, the rotation of the inkjet head 30 around the rotation axis R, and the rotation axis R will be described later.

[0032] The ink flow path 13 may also include a secondary reservoir. In this embodiment, the illustration of the secondary reservoir is omitted. When the ink flow path 13 includes a secondary reservoir, ink flows out from the main reservoir 12 and is stored in the secondary reservoir midway through its flow in the ink flow path 13. The ink flow path 13 directs the ink flowing from the secondary reservoir to the inkjet head 30. The use of secondary reservoirs in commercially available inkjet recording devices is well-known. Therefore, further description regarding the secondary reservoir is omitted.

[0033] The inkjet recording apparatus 10 operates the inkjet head 30, the first direct motion device 50, the second direct motion device 60, the rotary device 75, and the third direct motion device 90 to record a pattern (see reference) on the recording surface 21 of the recording medium 20. Figures 1-6 The inkjet recording device 10 is able to record full-color patterns on the recording surface 21 by using inks of multiple colors for recording patterns. Figure 1 , 5 The texture marked on the recording surface 21 in section 6 corresponds to the pattern. Examples of ink colors include yellow, magenta, turquoise, and black. However, inks of different colors may also be used in recording the pattern. The number of ink colors can be three or fewer, or five or more. In this embodiment, no specific ink color is specified, and any single color will be used as an example for explanation.

[0034] The recording surface 21 has a stepped shape that differs in position from the first coordinate axis direction to the second coordinate axis direction and extends along the third coordinate axis direction. In an embodiment, the recording surface 21 includes a step formed by a first surface 22, an inclined surface 23, and a second surface 24. The first surface 22, the inclined surface 23, and the second surface 24 are connected from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction in the order of the first surface 22, the inclined surface 23, and the second surface 24. The first surface 22 and the second surface 24 have a flat shape. Regarding the position of the first surface 22 and the second surface 24 in the second coordinate axis direction, the first surface 22 is located on the eighth side in the second coordinate axis direction, which is closer to the second surface 24 than the second surface 24. The inclined surface 23 is inclined from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction as it moves from the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction toward the sixth side. The inclined surface 23 is connected from the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction of the first surface 22, and from the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction of the second surface 24.

[0035] The carriage 40 is equipped with an inkjet head 30 (see reference). Figures 1-7 The first direct-acting device 50 moves the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 relative to each other along the first coordinate axis (see reference). Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2In this embodiment, during pattern recording, the relative movement based on the first direct-acting device 50 is achieved by moving the recording medium 20 along the direction of the first coordinate axis. That is, during pattern recording, the first direct-acting device 50 causes the recording medium 20 to reciprocate from the fifth side to the sixth side and from the sixth side to the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis.

[0036] The inkjet head 30 includes a plurality of nozzles 31 on the ejection surface 32 (see reference). Figures 5-7 ).exist Figures 5-7 In the diagram, a portion of the multiple nozzles 31 are labeled with the symbol "31". The ejection surface 32, in its moving state, is aligned with the recording surface 21 in the vertical direction V (see reference). Figures 2-6 In the moving state, the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction via the first direct-acting device 50 (refer to...). Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2 The vertical direction V is perpendicular to the ejection surface 32 (refer to...). Figures 2-6 When the ejection surface 32 is horizontal, the vertical direction V is consistent with the direction of the second coordinate axis (refer to...). Figure 2 , Figures 4-6 The inkjet head 30 is positioned on the first side of the vertical direction V relative to the recording surface 21 (see reference). Figures 2-6 ).

[0037] Multiple nozzles 31 open on the ejection surface 32. The multiple nozzles 31 are arranged on the ejection surface 32 along the third coordinate axis direction (see reference). Figures 5-7 Multiple nozzles 31 are arranged along the third coordinate axis on the ejection surface 32. In one embodiment, the multiple nozzles 31 are arranged in a row on the ejection surface 32 (see reference). Figure 7 However, this arrangement of multiple nozzles 31 on the ejection surface 32 is exemplified. Regarding the multiple nozzles 31, multiple rows of nozzles along the third coordinate axis can also be configured. In this case, the nozzle rows are formed by arranging a portion of the multiple nozzles 31 along the third coordinate axis. The multiple nozzles 31 are arranged in two rows on the ejection surface 32. In this case, half of the nozzles 31 form a first row of nozzles along the third coordinate axis, and the remaining nozzles 31 form a second row of nozzles along the third coordinate axis. The two rows of nozzles are adjacent in the next direction on the ejection surface 32. This direction is orthogonal to the third coordinate axis direction within the ejection surface 32. The two rows of nozzles are staggered by a predetermined amount along the third coordinate axis direction. That is, the multiple nozzles 31 are arranged in two staggered rows on the ejection surface 32. The arrangement of the multiple nozzles 31 is appropriately determined considering various conditions.

[0038] Multiple nozzles 31 eject ink onto the recording surface 21 (see reference) Figures 1-6That is, the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from the plurality of nozzles 31 onto the recording surface 21. At this time, the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from the plurality of nozzles 31 in a vertical direction V. Furthermore, the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from the plurality of nozzles 31 while in a moving state. Figures 2-6 The illustration of ink ejected from nozzle 31 is omitted. The ink is sprayed onto the recording surface 21.

[0039] Assume that the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from multiple nozzles 31 on the first surface 22 (refer to...). Figure 2 , Figure 5 , 6 In this case, the ink is sprayed onto the first surface 22. Assume that the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from multiple nozzles 31 on the inclined surface 23 (see reference). Figure 3 In this case, the ink is sprayed onto the inclined surface 23. Assume that the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from multiple nozzles 31 onto the second surface 24 (see reference). Figure 4 In this case, ink is sprayed onto the second surface 24. The inkjet head 30 sprays ink from multiple nozzles 31 toward the recording surface 21 in a vertical direction V, recording a pattern on the recording surface 21 (see reference). Figures 1-6 ).

[0040] The inkjet head 30 includes a supply port 33 and an internal flow path 34 (see reference). Figure 5 , 6 An ink flow path 13 is connected to the supply port 33. Ink flows from the ink flow path 13 into the inkjet head 30 through the supply port 33. An internal flow path 34 connects the supply port 33 to a plurality of nozzles 31. The ink flowing in from the supply port 33 flows in the internal flow path 34 and reaches the plurality of nozzles 31.

[0041] The internal flow path 34 includes a main flow section 35 and multiple branch flow sections 36. The main flow section 35 extends continuously from the supply port 33 and is formed along the third coordinate axis. Ink flowing in from the supply port 33 flows in the main flow section 35. The multiple branch flow sections 36 branch off from the main flow section 35 and are respectively connected to multiple nozzles 31. The ink flowing in from the main flow section 35 flows through the branch flow sections 36 and reaches the multiple nozzles 31 respectively. Figure 5 , 6 In the figure, one of the multiple tributaries 36 is labeled with the reference numeral "36".

[0042] As an example of a direct-acting mechanism that can be used as the first direct-acting device 50, a linear motor actuator can be cited. In the embodiment, a linear motor actuator is exemplified as the first direct-acting device 50. However, the direct-acting mechanism used as the first direct-acting device 50 may not be a linear motor actuator. For example, the direct-acting mechanism used as the first direct-acting device 50 may also be a combination of a ball screw, a motor, and a guide. As an example of a guide, a combination of a linear shaft and a bushing can be cited. As an example of a bushing, a linear bushing can be listed. Furthermore, as an example of a guide, a linear guide and a ball spline can be cited. The direct-acting mechanism used as the first direct-acting device 50 is appropriately determined by considering various conditions.

[0043] The first direct-acting device 50 includes a stage 51, a fixed member 52, and a movable member 53. A recording medium 20 (see reference) is placed on the stage 51. Figures 1-6 The recording medium 20 is placed on the stage 51 with the recording surface 21 in the manner described above. That is, in the recording medium 20 on the stage 51, the first surface 22, the inclined surface 23, and the second surface 24 are connected along the first coordinate axis direction. The recording surface 21 has a stepped shape that is different in position in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction and along the third coordinate axis direction.

[0044] The fixed member 52 is arranged along the first coordinate axis. The movable member 53 moves from the fifth side to the sixth side of the fixed member 52 along the first coordinate axis direction by a thrust acting on the movable member 53 between the movable member 53 and the fixed member 52 (see reference). Figures 2-4 The movable member 53 moves from the sixth side to the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis on the fixed member 52 by a propulsive force acting on the movable member 53 between the movable member 53 and the fixed member 52 (see reference). Figure 4-2 A stage 51 is provided on the movable member 53. The first direct-acting device 50 moves the stage 51 along the first coordinate axis by moving the movable member 53 along the first coordinate axis. Accompanyingly, the first direct-acting device 50 moves the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 back and forth from the fifth side to the sixth side and from the sixth side to the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis.

[0045] The second linear motion device 60, in the moving state, causes the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 to move relative to each other along the second coordinate axis (see reference). Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2In one embodiment, during pattern recording, the relative movement based on the second linear actuator 60 is achieved by moving the carriage 40 along the second coordinate axis. That is, during pattern recording, the second linear actuator 60 moves the carriage 40 from the seventh side to the eighth side in the direction of the second coordinate axis, and also moves the carriage 40 from the eighth side to the seventh side in the direction of the second coordinate axis. However, in the inkjet recording apparatus 10, the movement of the carriage 40 based on the second linear actuator 60 in the direction of the second coordinate axis is achieved by moving the rotating device 75 from the eighth side to the seventh side and from the seventh side to the eighth side in the direction of the second coordinate axis. That is, the second linear actuator 60 is mounted on the rotating device 75, and the rotating device 75 moves from the eighth side to the seventh side and from the seventh side to the eighth side in the direction of the second coordinate axis. The connection structure between the second linear actuator 60 and the rotating device 75 will be described later.

[0046] The inkjet recording apparatus 10 employs a direct-acting mechanism as a second direct-acting device 60. Examples of direct-acting mechanisms that can be used as the second direct-acting device 60 include combinations of ball screws, drives, and transmission mechanisms. In this embodiment, the aforementioned combination is exemplified as the second direct-acting device 60. In this case, the second direct-acting device 60 includes ball screws 61 and 62, a drive 65, and a transmission mechanism 66 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1 , 5 6).

[0047] Ball screw 61 is positioned on the third side of the third coordinate axis direction of the first direct-acting device 50. Ball screw 62 is positioned on the fourth side of the third coordinate axis direction of the first direct-acting device 50. In ball screws 61 and 62, the screw shaft 63 is configured to rotate freely along the second coordinate axis direction, and the nut 64 moves along the second coordinate axis direction according to the rotation of the screw shaft 63. The drive mechanism 65 can be a rotary machine such as a motor. An example of the drive mechanism 65 is a servo motor. The servo motor as the drive mechanism 65 includes an encoder. The drive mechanism 65 generates a driving force that rotates the screw shaft 63. Figure 1 In the diagram, the arc-shaped arrows on the outer periphery of the screw shaft 63 of the ball screws 61 and 62 indicate the rotation direction of the screw shaft 63.

[0048] Transmission mechanism 66 connects ball screws 61 and 62 and drive motor 65 (see reference). Figure 1The transmission mechanism 66 transmits the driving force generated by the drive motor 65 to the screw shaft 63 of the ball screws 61 and 62. In other words, the transmission mechanism 66 transmits the rotation of the drive motor 65 to the screw shaft 63 of the ball screws 61 and 62. Examples of the transmission mechanism 66 include combinations of gearboxes and shafts, combinations of pulleys and timing belts, and combinations of sprockets and chains. The specifications of the transmission mechanism 66 are appropriately determined considering various conditions. In an embodiment, a combination of gearboxes and shafts is exemplified as the transmission mechanism 66. In this case, the transmission mechanism 66 includes gearboxes 67, 68, and 69 and shafts 70 and 71.

[0049] Gearbox 67 branches the driving force of drive motor 65 into a first driving force and a second driving force. Shaft 70 connects gearboxes 67 and 68, transmitting the first driving force to gearbox 68. Gearbox 68 transmits the first driving force to ball screw 61. Shaft 71 connects gearboxes 67 and 69, transmitting the second driving force to gearbox 69. Gearbox 69 transmits the second driving force to ball screw 62. That is, drive motor 65 rotates the screw shaft 63 of ball screw 61 via gearbox 67, shaft 70, and gearbox 68, and rotates the screw shaft 63 of ball screw 62 via gearbox 67, shaft 71, and gearbox 69. In the second direct-acting device 60, the screw shafts 63 of ball screws 61 and 62 rotate in the same direction at the same speed (synchronous rotation) by the same amount.

[0050] The rotating device 75 rotates the carriage 40 about the rotation axis R in the moving state (see reference). Figure 1 , Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2 The rotation axis R is set along the direction of the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6). The rotation axis R is set at a position in the vertical direction V that coincides with the ejection surface 32 or a position that is a second side further than the ejection surface 32. In the embodiment, a rotation device 75 (see reference) is shown in which the rotation axis R is set at a position in the vertical direction V that coincides with the ejection surface 32. Figure 5 , 6 ).exist Figure 1 In the diagram, the arrow pointing in an arc centered on the axis of rotation R indicates the direction of rotation of the carriage 40.

[0051] The rotating device 75 includes a first support member 76, a drive motor 80, and a second support member 81 (see reference). Figure 1 , 5(6) The first support member 76 includes a first frame 77, a second frame 78, and a third frame 79. The first frame 77 is disposed along the third coordinate axis direction. The second frame 78 is disposed on the third side of the first frame 77 along the vertical direction V in the third coordinate axis direction. The second frame 78 is connected to the first frame 77 on the first side of the vertical direction V. The third frame 79 is disposed on the fourth side of the first frame 77 along the vertical direction V in the third coordinate axis direction. The third frame 79 is connected to the first frame 77 on the first side of the vertical direction V. The first support member 76 is connected to the second support member 81 through the second frame 78, and to the drive motor 80 through the third frame 79. The first support member 76 supports the third linear motion device 90. The support structure of the first support member 76 for the third linear motion device 90 will be described later.

[0052] The drive unit 80 can be a rotating mechanism like a motor. An example of the drive unit 80 is a servo motor. The servo motor, as the drive unit 80, includes an encoder. The drive unit 80 generates a driving force that causes the carriage 40 to rotate about the rotation axis R. The shaft of the servo motor, as the drive unit 80, is fixed to the third frame 79.

[0053] A drive motor 80 is provided on the second support member 81. The second support member 81 supports the first support member 76 so that it can rotate freely about the rotation axis R. The second support member 81 includes a first mounting member 82 and a second mounting member 83. The first mounting member 82 is located on the third side of the first support member 76 in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The first mounting member 82 is fixed to the nut 64 of the ball screw 61. The first mounting member 82 is connected to the second frame 78 and supports the first support member 76 so that it can rotate freely about the rotation axis R. The second mounting member 83 is located on the fourth side of the first support member 76 in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The second mounting member 83 is fixed to the nut 64 of the ball screw 62. The drive motor 80 is provided on the second mounting member 83 in the following state: In this state, the shaft of the servo motor is fixed to the third frame 79. That is, the drive motor 80 is provided on the second support member 81, and the second support member 81 supports the first support member 76 so that it can rotate freely about the rotation axis R. The second support member 81 connects the second linear motion device 60 and the rotating device 75 (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6). In other words, the second direct-acting device 60 is connected to the rotating device 75 via the second support member 81.

[0054] The third linear motion device 90 moves the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 relative to each other along the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 , 56). In this embodiment, during pattern recording, the relative movement based on the third linear motion device 90 is achieved by moving the carriage 40 from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis. That is, the third linear motion device 90 moves the carriage 40 from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis during pattern recording.

[0055] During pattern recording, the third linear motion device 90 moves the carriage 40 from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis, corresponding to the subsequent first and second main scans. In the first main scan, the first linear motion device 50 moves the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis (see reference). Figures 2-4 In the second main scan, the first direct-acting device 50 moves the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 from the sixth side to the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 4-2 That is, in the pattern recording operation, the movement of the carriage 40 based on the third linear motion device 90 is performed intermittently according to the moving end of the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 of the first main scan reaching the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis, and the moving end of the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 of the second main scan reaching the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis.

[0056] The third linear motion device 90 causes the carriage 40 to move a conveying distance T (refer to) from the third side to the fourth side along the third coordinate axis each time. Figure 5 , 6 The conveying distance T can also be determined based on the nozzle area N (refer to...). Figure 7 The dimension in the third coordinate axis direction is determined by the distance T. For example, the conveying distance T is set to be less than or equal to the dimension in the third coordinate axis direction of the nozzle region N. The nozzle region N will be described later.

[0057] The inkjet recording apparatus 10 employs a direct-acting mechanism as the third direct-acting device 90. Examples of direct-acting mechanisms that can be used as the third direct-acting device 90 include a combination of a ball screw, a drive motor, and a guide. In this embodiment, the aforementioned combination is exemplified as the third direct-acting device 90. In this case, the third direct-acting device 90 includes a ball screw 91, a drive motor 94, and a guide 95 (see reference 1). Figure 1 The third direct-acting device 90 uses a linear shaft 96 and a linear bushing 97 as the guide 95. However, the guide 95 may also use a bushing of a different type than the linear bushing 97. Furthermore, a linear guide or a ball spline may also be used as the guide 95. The specifications of the guide 95 are appropriately determined considering various conditions.

[0058] The ball screw 91's screw shaft 92 is configured to rotate freely along the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1The nut 93 of the ball screw 91 moves along the third coordinate axis according to the rotation of the screw shaft 92. A drive 94 is connected to the screw shaft 92. The drive 94 can be a rotary machine such as a motor. An example of the drive 94 is a servo motor. The servo motor, as the drive 94, includes an encoder. The drive 94 rotates the screw shaft 92. Figure 1 In the diagram, the arc-shaped arrow at the third side end of the third coordinate axis direction of the lead screw axis 92 indicates the rotation direction of the lead screw axis 92.

[0059] With the lead screw 92 and drive motor 94 connected, the front end of the lead screw 92 is rotatably supported on the second frame 78, and the drive motor 94 is mounted on the third frame 79 (see reference). Figure 1 In guide 95, similarly to the screw shaft 92 of ball screw 91, linear axis 96 is arranged along the direction of the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 (6). The linear axis 96 is supported by the second frame 78 and the third frame 79. The linear bushing 97 moves along the linear axis 96 in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The carriage 40 is fixed to the nut 93 and the linear bushing 97.

[0060] In the inkjet recording apparatus 10, the drive motor 94 rotates the lead screw shaft 92 in a predetermined direction, thereby moving the nut 93 from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 In this case, the drive unit 94 rotates the lead screw 92 by the next rotation amount. This rotation amount defines the movement of the nut 93 from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis as the conveying distance T. The carriage 40 moves by the same amount (conveying distance T) in the same direction as the nut 93, which has moved the conveying distance T from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 5 , 6 The drive unit 94 rotates the lead screw shaft 92 in the opposite direction to the aforementioned direction, thereby moving the nut 93 from the fourth side to the third side in the direction of the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 In this case, the drive unit 94 causes the lead screw shaft 92 to rotate by the next amount of rotation. For example, this amount of rotation causes the carriage 40 to return to its moving end on the third side in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The carriage 40 moves by the same amount in the same direction as the nut 93, which moves from the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis to the third side (see reference). Figure 6 , Figure 5 In this embodiment, illustrations showing the states of the two moving ends of the carriage 40 moving to the third and fourth sides in the direction of the third coordinate axis are omitted.

[0061] Guide 95 guides the movement of the carriage 40 as described above from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis, and from the fourth side to the third side in the direction of the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6). In other words, the carriage 40, guided by the guide member 95, moves from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis and from the fourth side to the third side in the direction of the third coordinate axis (refer to...). Figure 5 , 6 as well as Figure 6 , Figure 5 ).

[0062] The rotating device 75 rotates the carriage 40 about the rotation axis R in the moving state, so that the ejection surface 32 is parallel to the next imaginary straight line L (see reference). Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2 Imagine a straight line L passing through the opposite position P2, and thus perpendicular to the vertical direction V. The opposite position P2 is the location of the recording surface 21 closest to the reference position P1 in the vertical direction V. The reference position P1 can also be set as the center of the nozzle region N of the ejection surface 32 (see reference). Figure 7 In the nozzle region N, a plurality of nozzles 31 are provided on the ejection surface 32.

[0063] The nozzle region N can also be described as a rectangle with the next four sides being the first, second, third, and fourth sides (see reference). Figure 7 The first and second sides are along the first coordinate axis, and the third and fourth sides are along the third coordinate axis. The first side is the nozzle 31 located on the third side closest to the third coordinate axis among the plurality of nozzles 31 (refer to...). Figure 7 The third side end of the nozzle 31A is connected to the third side end in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The second side is connected to the fourth side of the nozzle 31 located closest to the third coordinate axis direction among the multiple nozzles 31 (refer to the nozzle 31). Figure 7 The fourth side of the nozzle 31B is connected to the fourth side of the nozzle 31 in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The third side is connected to the fifth side of the nozzle 31 in the direction of the first coordinate axis, which is the fifth side closest to the first coordinate axis among the plurality of nozzles 31. The fourth side is connected to the sixth side of the nozzle 31 in the direction of the first coordinate axis, which is the sixth side of the nozzle 31 in the direction of the first coordinate axis.

[0064] In this embodiment, there are five nozzles 31, which have the same shape and are arranged in a row along the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 7 The reference position P1 is the center of the nozzle region N of the ejection surface 32. In this case, the reference position P1 coincides with the position of the central nozzle 31 among the five nozzles 31. The inkjet recording device 10 sets the reference position P1 and the position in the first coordinate axis direction of the rotation axis R to the same position (see reference). Figures 5-7 And the following Figure 8 next paragraph).

[0065] In this embodiment, with the recording medium 20 placed on the stage 51, the first surface 22 and the second surface 24 are horizontal planes, and the inclined surface 23 is a plane inclined at a constant angle (see reference). Figures 1-4 In the first mode of movement, the next imaginary line L follows the first surface 22. This imaginary line L passes through the opposite position P2 of the first surface 22 (refer to...). Figure 2 The imaginary straight line L is shown along the double-dotted line of the "first surface 22". In the first mode of movement, the first surface 22 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the eighth side of the second coordinate axis direction of the inkjet head 30. In other words, in the first mode of movement, the first surface 22 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the second side of the vertical direction V of the ejection surface 32. In the second mode of movement, the next imaginary straight line L moves along the inclined surface 23. This imaginary straight line L passes through the opposite position P2 of the inclined surface 23 (refer to...). Figure 3 The imaginary straight line L is shown as a double-dotted line along the "tilted surface 23". In the second mode of movement, the tilted surface 23 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the eighth side of the second coordinate axis direction of the inkjet head 30. In other words, in the second mode of movement, the tilted surface 23 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the second side of the vertical direction V of the ejection surface 32. In the third mode of movement, the next imaginary straight line L moves along the second surface 24. This imaginary straight line L passes through the opposite position P2 of the second surface 24 (refer to...). Figure 4 (The imaginary straight line L is shown along the double-dotted line of "second surface 24"). In the third mode of movement, the second surface 24 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the eighth side of the second coordinate axis direction of the inkjet head 30. In other words, in the third mode of movement, the second surface 24 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the second side of the vertical direction V of the ejection surface 32.

[0066] In the moving state, the second direct-acting device 60 moves the inkjet head 30 relative to the recording surface 21 along the second coordinate axis, setting the separation distance D in the vertical direction V between the reference position P1 and the opposing position P2 to be constant (refer to...). Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2 The separation distance D can also be set to "0mm < separation distance D ≤ 10mm". For example, the separation distance D can be set to 1mm.

[0067] <Effects of the Implementation Method>

[0068] According to the implementation method, the following effects can be obtained.

[0069] (1) The inkjet recording device 10 includes an inkjet head 30, a carriage 40, a first direct motion device 50, a second direct motion device 60, a rotation device 75, and a third direct motion device 90 (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0070] The inkjet head 30 includes multiple nozzles 31 (see reference). Figures 5-7 Multiple nozzles 31 eject ink onto the recording surface 21 (see reference). Figures 1-6 The carriage 40 is equipped with an inkjet head 30 (see reference). Figures 1-7 The first direct-acting device 50 moves the recording medium 20 relative to the carriage 40 along the first coordinate axis direction (see reference). Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2 The second direct-acting device 60 moves the carriage 40 relative to the recording medium 20 along the second coordinate axis direction in the moving state (see reference). Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2 The rotating device 75 rotates the carriage 40 about the rotation axis R in the moving state (see reference). Figure 1 , Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2 The rotation axis R is set along the direction of the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6). Furthermore, the rotation axis R is set at a position in the vertical direction V that coincides with the ejection surface 32 (see reference). Figure 5 , 6 The third direct-acting device 90 moves the carriage 40 relative to the recording medium 20 along the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6).

[0071] According to the inkjet recording apparatus 10, the inkjet head 30 and the carriage 40 can rotate together around the rotation axis R in a moving state. Even when the recording surface 21 includes a first surface 22, an inclined surface 23, and a second surface 24, in the inkjet recording apparatus 10, the separation distance D can be maintained at a constant distance and the ejection surface 32 can be moved along the recording surface 21 while the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 move relative to each other along the first coordinate axis. The inkjet recording apparatus 10 can record patterns that match the recording surface 21.

[0072] Imagine the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example as follows, and compare it with the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example and the inkjet recording apparatus 10 (refer to...). Figure 8 The inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example includes the same elements as inkjet recording apparatus 10. However, the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example differs from inkjet recording apparatus 10 in that the rotation axis R is set at a position in the vertical direction V closer to the first side than the ejection surface 32 (see reference). Figure 8(Above paragraph). For the symbols used to define the elements of the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example, they are the same as those used in inkjet recording apparatus 10 for easy correspondence. Figure 8 The illustration shows a portion of the inkjet head 30, a carriage 40, a portion of the first direct-acting device 50, and a recording medium 20. Illustrations of other elements that define the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example and the inkjet recording apparatus 10 are omitted.

[0073] This description uses the case where the first direct-acting device 50 moves the recording medium 20 relative to the carriage 40 from the sixth side to the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis as an example (refer to...). Figure 8 In this case, the carriage 40 moves relative to the recording medium 20 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis and from the eighth side to the seventh side in the direction of the second coordinate axis. Accompanyingly, the inkjet head 30 moves relative to the recording surface 21 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis and from the eighth side to the seventh side in the direction of the second coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 8 Furthermore, in the first comparative example, the inkjet recording apparatus and the inkjet recording apparatus 10 rotate the carriage 40 about the rotation axis R during the movement from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis, so that the ejection surface 32 is parallel to the imaginary straight line L, and the separation distance D is set to be constant (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0074] In the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example and the inkjet recording apparatus 10, the position (coordinate value) of the reference position P1 in the first coordinate axis direction changes to the same side as the carriage 40 (inkjet head 30) moves relative to the recording medium 20 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction.

[0075] In the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example, as the reference position P1 moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis, the opposing position P2 moves from the first surface 22 to the inclined surface 23. In this case, the positions (coordinate values) of the rotation axis R in the direction of the first coordinate axis and the direction of the second coordinate axis change from the sixth side to the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis and from the seventh side to the eighth side in the direction of the second coordinate axis, opposite to the reference position P1 (see reference). Figure 8The "Positions A and B" in the upper section (arrows between the "rotation axis R" of "Position A" and the "rotation axis R" of "Position B") are caused by the rotation of the carriage 40 towards the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis, centered on the rotation axis R. Subsequently, as the reference position P1 moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis, the opposing position P2 further moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis on the inclined surface 23. In this case, the positions (coordinate values) of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction change similarly to the reference position P1, from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis and from the eighth side to the seventh side in the direction of the second coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 8 (Positions B and C in the previous paragraph).

[0076] In contrast, the inkjet recording apparatus 10 can make the reference position P1 and the positions (coordinate values) of the first and second coordinate axes of the rotation axis R consistent. Therefore, in the inkjet recording apparatus 10, during the movement of the reference position P1 from the fifth side to the sixth side of the first coordinate axis direction, the positions (coordinate values) of the rotation axis R in the first and second coordinate axis directions will not change from the sixth side to the fifth side of the first coordinate axis direction or from the seventh side to the eighth side of the second coordinate axis direction. In the inkjet recording apparatus 10, as the reference position P1 moves from the fifth side to the sixth side of the first coordinate axis direction, the opposing position P2 moves from the first surface 22 to the inclined surface 23. In this case, the positions (coordinate values) of the rotation axis R in the first and second coordinate axis directions change from the fifth side to the sixth side of the first coordinate axis direction and from the eighth side to the seventh side of the second coordinate axis direction, just like the reference position P1 (see reference). Figure 8 (See "Positions A and B" in the next paragraph). Subsequently, as the reference position P1 moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis, the opposing position P2 further moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis on the inclined plane 23. In this case, the positions (coordinate values) of the rotation axis R in the direction of the first coordinate axis and the direction of the second coordinate axis change similarly to the reference position P1, from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis and from the eighth side to the seventh side in the direction of the second coordinate axis (see...). Figure 8 (Locations B and C in the next paragraph).

[0077] In the inkjet recording apparatus 10, as described above, when the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 move relative to each other in the direction of the first coordinate axis, the following phenomenon that occurs in the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example does not occur. In this phenomenon, the position (coordinate value) of the reference position P1 and the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction of the rotation axis R change in opposite directions. Therefore, in the inkjet recording apparatus 10, ink ejection control can be easily performed.

[0078] In the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example, the moving speed of the movable member 53 can be changed at the following times in the complex ink ejection control: at the time the opposing position P2 moves from the first surface 22 to the inclined surface 23, and from the inclined surface 23 to the first surface 22. However, the change in the moving speed of the movable member 53 is accompanied by deceleration and acceleration of the movable member 53. Therefore, in the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example, it is also contemplated that vibration countermeasures are needed due to the deceleration and acceleration of the movable member 53. In the inkjet recording apparatus 10, since ink ejection control is easy, the deceleration and acceleration of the movable member 53 at the aforementioned times can be omitted. Therefore, in the inkjet recording apparatus 10, the vibration countermeasures contemplated in the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example can also be omitted.

[0079] (2) The rotating device 75 includes a first support member 76, a drive motor 80, and a second support member 81 (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6). The first support member 76 supports the third direct-acting device 90. The drive motor 80 is connected to the first support member 76. The drive motor 80 generates a driving force that causes the first support member 76 to rotate about the rotation axis R. The drive motor 80 is provided on the second support member 81. The second support member 81 supports the first support member 76 so that it can rotate freely about the rotation axis R.

[0080] The first support member 76 includes a first frame 77, a second frame 78, and a third frame 79 (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6). The first frame 77 is positioned along the third coordinate axis. The second frame 78 is positioned on the third side of the first frame 77 along the vertical direction V in the third coordinate axis direction. The second frame 78 is connected to the first frame 77 on the first side of the vertical direction V. The third frame 79 is positioned on the fourth side of the first frame 77 along the vertical direction V in the third coordinate axis direction. The third frame 79 is connected to the first frame 77 on the first side of the vertical direction V.

[0081] The second linear motion device 60 is connected to the rotating device 75 via the second support member 81 (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6). The second linear motion device 60 moves the rotating device 75 along the second coordinate axis (refer to...). Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2 ).

[0082] According to this structure, compared to the inkjet recording apparatus of the second comparative example described below, the size of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in the third coordinate axis direction can be miniaturized. In the inkjet recording apparatus of the second comparative example, the rotating device that rotates the carriage moves together with the carriage in the third coordinate axis direction. In the inkjet recording apparatus of the second comparative example, the moving object in the third coordinate axis direction includes the rotating device, therefore it is necessary to increase the size of the following region in the third coordinate axis direction. This region is necessary for the moving object to move in the third coordinate axis direction. In other words, this region becomes the movement path when the moving object moves in the third coordinate axis direction. In the above structure, the rotating device 75 does not move in the third coordinate axis direction, therefore the size increase as seen in the inkjet recording apparatus of the second comparative example is not achieved.

[0083] <Variation Example>

[0084] The implementation method can also be as described below. Several structures from the variations shown below can also be appropriately combined and employed. Hereinafter, the differences from the above will be explained, while the explanations of the similarities will be omitted where appropriate.

[0085] (1) The following configuration can also be used in an inkjet recording device equipped with a line printhead. In this configuration, the rotation axis R is set at a position in the vertical direction V that coincides with the ejection surface 32 or at a position on a second side in the vertical direction V that is closer to the ejection surface 32 than the ejection surface 32. In an inkjet recording device equipped with a line printhead, the third linear motion device 90 may also be omitted.

[0086] (2) The second direct-acting device 60 includes ball screws 61 and 62, a drive motor 65, and a transmission mechanism 66 (see Figure 1 , 5 6). The second direct-acting device may also be of a different specification. For example, in the second direct-acting device, either ball screw 61 or 62 may be omitted. In this case, the second direct-acting device may include a new guide. That is, in the second direct-acting device, a combination of ball screw, drive motor and guide may also be used. Examples of guides can be the various guides described above. However, in this modified example, a combination of linear shaft and linear bushing is shown as the guide.

[0087] Ball screw 61 is omitted. In this case, the drive unit is supported by the frame 11 and connected to the screw shaft 63 of the ball screw 62. For example, the drive unit is provided on the mounting member, which is fixed to the frame 11. As the drive unit, a rotary machine such as a motor can be used, similar to drive unit 65. The drive unit rotates the screw shaft 63 of the ball screw 62. In the guide member, similar to the screw shaft 63 of the ball screw 61, the linear axis is arranged along the direction of the second coordinate axis. The linear axis is supported by the frame 11. In the guide member, the linear bushing moves along the linear axis in the direction of the second coordinate axis. On the linear bushing, a second support member 81 (first mounting member 82) is fixed, similar to the nut 64 of the ball screw 61. The guide member guides the movement of the first support member 76 that accompanies the movement of the nut 64 of the ball screw 62 in the direction of the second coordinate axis.

[0088] (3) The rotating device 75 causes the carriage 40 to rotate about the rotation axis R (see reference). Figure 1 , Figures 2-4 as well as Figure 4-2 The rotation axis R is set along the direction of the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 , 5 6). The rotation axis R is set at a position in the vertical direction V that coincides with the ejection surface 32. Alternatively, the rotation axis R can be set at a position in the vertical direction V that is a second side further from the ejection surface 32. With this structure, similar to the inkjet recording apparatus 10, during the movement of the reference position P1 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis, the position (coordinate value) of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction will not change from the sixth side to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction, or from the seventh side to the eighth side in the second coordinate axis direction. In this inkjet recording apparatus, ink ejection control can also be simplified.

[0089] (4) The first direct-acting device 50 moves the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 relative to each other along the first coordinate axis by moving the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 along the first coordinate axis (see reference). Figures 1-4 The first direct-acting device can also move the carriage along the first coordinate axis. In this case, the first direct-acting device can also support the carriage, the second direct-acting device, the rotating device, and the third direct-acting device, so that they move together relative to the recording medium 20 along the first coordinate axis. The first direct-acting device can be a linear motor actuator, or a combination of a ball screw, a drive motor, and a guide. Examples of guides include the various guides described above.

[0090] The third linear motion device 90 moves the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 relative to each other along the third coordinate axis by moving the carriage 40 along the third coordinate axis (see reference). Figure 1 , 56). The third linear motion device can also move the recording medium 20 along the third coordinate axis direction. In this case, the third linear motion device may include a stage, and the stage may also be moved along the third coordinate axis direction. The recording medium 20 is placed on this stage, and the stage 51 is omitted in the first linear motion device. For example, the third linear motion device may also, in the same manner as described above, intermittently move the stage on which the recording medium 20 is placed from the fourth side to the third side in the direction of the third coordinate axis by a transport distance T each time. This moment is when the moving end reaches the fifth side and the moving end reaches the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis during the relative movement of the carriage and the recording medium 20 in the direction of the first linear motion device. In addition, the third linear motion device may also move the stage from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis.

[0091] (5) The third side and the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction can also be the opposite of the implementation method. That is, one side of the third coordinate axis direction that is the third side can be set as the fourth side, and the other side of the third coordinate axis direction that is the fourth side can be set as the third side.

[0092] Symbol Explanation

[0093] 10—Inkjet recording device; 11—Stand; 12—Main tank; 13—Ink flow path; 20—Recording medium; 21—Recording surface; 22—First surface; 23—Inclined surface; 24—Second surface; 30—Inkjet head; 31, 31A, 31B—Nozzle; 32—Ejection surface; 33—Inlet; 34—Internal flow path; 35—Main flow section; 36—Branch flow section; 40—Carriage; 50—First direct-acting device; 51—Platform; 52—Fixed component; 53—Modible component; 60—Second direct-acting device; 61, 62—Ball screw; 63—Screw shaft; 64—Nut; 65—Driver; 66—Transmission mechanism; 67, 68 69—Gearbox; 70, 71—Shafts; 75—Rotating device; 76—First support member; 77—First frame; 78—Second frame; 79—Third frame; 80—Driver; 81—Second support member; 82—First mounting member; 83—Second mounting member; 90—Third direct-acting device; 91—Ball screw; 92—Screw shaft; 93—Nut; 94—Driver; 95—Guide member; 96—Linear shaft; 97—Linear bushing; A, B, C—Positions; D—Separation distance; L—Imaginary straight line; N—Nozzle area; P1—Reference position; P2—Opposite position; R—Rotating shaft; T—Conveying distance; V—Vertical direction.

Claims

1. An inkjet recording device, characterized in that, have: An inkjet head includes multiple nozzles that eject ink onto the recording surface of a recording medium; The carriage, which carries the inkjet head; The first direct-acting device moves the carriage and the recording medium relative to each other in the direction of the first coordinate axis; The second linear motion device causes the carriage and the recording medium to move relative to each other in a second coordinate axis direction orthogonal to the first coordinate axis direction; as well as A rotating device that causes the carriage to rotate about a rotation axis centered on a third coordinate axis orthogonal to both the first and second coordinate axes. Regarding the inkjet head, The recording surface is disposed on a first side in a vertical direction perpendicular to the ejection surface including the plurality of nozzles, and In the moving state where the carriage and the recording medium move relative to each other along the first coordinate axis via the first linear motion device, the ink is ejected from the plurality of nozzles toward the second side, which is perpendicular to the first side. The plurality of nozzles are arranged on the ejection surface along the direction of the third coordinate axis. The second linear motion device causes the carriage and the recording medium to move relative to each other in the direction of the second coordinate axis during the moving state. The rotating device causes the carriage to rotate around the rotating axis in the moving state. The rotating axis is set at a position in the vertical direction that is consistent with the ejection surface or at a position that is a second side away from the ejection surface.

2. The inkjet recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating device causes the carriage to rotate about the rotating axis, which is set at a position in the vertical direction that coincides with the ejection surface.

3. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It is equipped with a third linear motion device that moves the carriage and the recording medium relative to each other in the direction of the third coordinate axis.

4. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It is equipped with a third linear motion device that supports the carriage and moves the carriage in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The second linear motion device moves the carriage in the direction of the second coordinate axis. The rotating device includes: The first support member supports the third linear motion device; A drive unit, connected to the first support member, generates a driving force that causes the first support member to rotate about the rotation axis; and The second support member is equipped with the drive motor and supports the first support member so that it can rotate freely about the rotation axis. The first support member includes: A first frame is arranged along the direction of the third coordinate axis; A second frame is disposed on a third side of the first frame along the third coordinate axis direction, along the vertical direction, and is connected to the first frame on a first side of the vertical direction; and A third frame is disposed on the fourth side of the first frame along the third coordinate axis direction, along the vertical direction, and is connected to the first frame on the first side of the vertical direction. The second frame connects to the second support member, and the third frame connects to the drive motor. The second linear motion device is connected to the rotating device via the second support member, causing the rotating device to move in the direction of the second coordinate axis.

Images