Double-nozzle ink-jet printer

Abstract

The invention discloses a double-nozzle ink-jet printer. The double-nozzle ink-jet printer comprises a shell, an ink core mechanism, an adding mechanism, a cleaning mechanism and two nozzles, the ink core mechanism is arranged in the shell; the adding mechanism is arranged in the shell and is communicated with the ink core mechanism; the two nozzles are respectively connected outside the shell and are communicated with the ink core mechanism; the cleaning mechanism is arranged between the adding mechanism and the two sprayers or / and arranged on the ink core mechanism in a communicating mode. According to the invention, the double nozzles can work in a combined manner and can work independently, and one ink-jet printer can realize the functions of two ink-jet printers. In some special application scenes, the installation position of code spraying equipment is limited, or for application of large-format code spraying, the double-nozzle code spraying machine can well solve the problem, the working modes can be freely switched, and the use flexibility and usability of a user are improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the field of inkjet printing, in particular to a double-nozzle inkjet printer. BACKGROUND

[0002] With the transformation of manufacturing industry to intelligentization and automation, the traditional manual marking or single-nozzle inkjet method cannot meet the requirements of information with more lines, such as electronic manufacturing, pharmaceutical packaging, food and beverage industries, product marking (such as production date, batch number, two-dimensional code, etc.) requires higher speed, inkjet information width (inkjet more lines) and other requirements. The traditional single-nozzle inkjet printer has been difficult to meet the demand. SUMMARY

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by the present application is to provide a double-nozzle inkjet printer.

[0004] The technical scheme adopted by the present application to solve the technical problem is: A double-nozzle inkjet printer, comprising: a housing; an ink core mechanism arranged in the housing for temporarily storing ink; an adding mechanism arranged in the housing and connected to the ink core mechanism for adding ink or a solvent for diluting ink to the ink core mechanism; two nozzles connected to the housing respectively and connected to the ink core mechanism, the ink core mechanism providing ink for the two nozzles and performing inkjet printing; a cleaning mechanism connected between the adding mechanism and the two nozzles or / and arranged on the ink core mechanism, the cleaning mechanism delivering the solvent in the adding mechanism to the two nozzles or / and the ink core mechanism for cleaning.

[0005] Further, in the double-nozzle inkjet printer, the ink core mechanism preferably comprises a mixing cylinder arranged in the housing for temporarily storing ink and two recovery components connected between the mixing cylinder and the two nozzles respectively, the recovery components delivering the unnecessary ink of the nozzles back to the mixing cylinder. The adding mechanism is also connected to one of the recovery components, and the ink in the adding mechanism is delivered to the mixing cylinder through the recovery component.

[0006] Further, in the double-nozzle ink-jet printer, preferably, the ink core mechanism further comprises ink supply assemblies respectively connected to the mixing cylinder and the two nozzles, and a suction assembly connected to the mixing cylinder and the adding mechanism; the ink supply assemblies respectively deliver ink in the mixing cylinder to the two nozzles, and the suction assembly is used to deliver ink or / and solvent in the adding mechanism and mix with ink in the mixing cylinder.

[0007] Further, in the double-nozzle ink-jet printer, preferably, the recycling assembly comprises recycling pipelines connected to the mixing cylinder and the nozzles, and a recycling pump arranged on the recycling pipelines; Or / and, the adding mechanism is connected to one of the recycling pipelines.

[0008] Further, in the double-nozzle ink-jet printer, preferably, the adding mechanism comprises an ink adding assembly and a solvent adding assembly connected to the suction assembly respectively, the ink adding assembly is used to add ink to the mixing cylinder, and the solvent adding assembly is used to add solvent to dilute ink to the mixing cylinder.

[0009] Further, in the double-nozzle ink-jet printer, preferably, the solvent adding assembly comprises a solvent box mounting seat, a solvent box, a solvent adding pipeline, a fifth valve, an adding pump, a solvent temporary storage cylinder, and a sixth valve; The solvent box mounting seat and the solvent temporary storage cylinder are arranged in the housing respectively, the solvent box is detachably arranged on the solvent box mounting seat, one end of the solvent adding pipeline is connected to the solvent box mounting seat and is connected to the opening of the solvent box, the other end is connected to the suction assembly, and the fifth valve, the adding pump, the solvent temporary storage cylinder, and the sixth valve are sequentially connected to the solvent adding pipeline.

[0010] Further, in the double-nozzle ink-jet printer, preferably, the solvent adding assembly further comprises an atmospheric pressure balancing module, comprising a first balancing pipeline, an atmospheric pressure balancing valve, a second balancing pipeline, and a first one-way valve; The first balancing pipeline is arranged on the solvent temporary storage cylinder, the atmospheric pressure balancing valve is arranged on the first balancing pipeline and is connected to the external environment, one end of the second balancing pipeline is connected to the solvent temporary storage cylinder, the other end is connected to the fifth valve, and the first one-way valve is connected to the second balancing pipeline.

[0011] Further, in the double-nozzle ink-jet printer, preferably, the cleaning mechanism comprises a first cleaning pipeline, a second one-way valve, a cleaning filter, a second cleaning pipeline, and a seventh valve; One end of the first cleaning pipeline is communicated with the solvent temporary storage cylinder, and the other end is respectively communicated with the two spray heads; the second one-way valve and the cleaning filter are sequentially arranged on the first cleaning pipeline, one end of the second cleaning pipeline is communicated on the ink supply assembly, and the other end is communicated on the suction assembly; the seventh valve is arranged on the second cleaning pipeline.

[0012] Further, in the double-spray-head ink-jet printer, preferably, the spray head comprises a base body, a first spray head pipeline, a nozzle, a deflection electrode, a recovery groove, a second spray head pipeline, and a spray head valve assembly; The first spray head pipeline, the nozzle, the deflection electrode, the recovery groove, the second spray head pipeline, and the spray head valve assembly are respectively arranged on the base body; one end of the first spray head pipeline is communicated with the ink supply assembly, and the other end is communicated with the nozzle; the deflection electrode is arranged directly below the nozzle; the recovery groove is arranged directly below the deflection electrode; the recovery groove is communicated with the recovery pipeline; one end of the second spray head pipeline is communicated with the nozzle, and the other end is communicated with the recovery pipeline; the spray head valve assembly is arranged between the first cleaning pipeline and the first spray head pipeline and / or arranged between the second spray head pipeline and the recovery pipeline; Or / and, the spray head valve assembly comprises a first spray head valve, a second spray head valve, a third spray head valve, and a fourth spray head valve; the first spray head valve is arranged in communication between the first cleaning pipeline and the first spray head pipeline; the second spray head valve is arranged in communication on the first spray head pipeline between the second spray head valve and the nozzle; the third spray head valve is arranged in communication on the second spray head pipeline between the nozzle and the recovery pipeline; and the fourth spray head valve is arranged in communication on the recovery pipeline communicated with the recovery groove.

[0013] Further, in the double-spray-head ink-jet printer, preferably, the control mechanism is further arranged, and the control mechanism is electrically connected with the ink core mechanism, the adding mechanism, and the two spray heads respectively, so as to control operation.

[0014] The implementation of the present application has the following beneficial effects: the double spray heads can work jointly or independently, and one ink-jet printer realizes the functions of two ink-jet printers. In some special application scenarios, the positions for installing the ink-jet equipment are limited, or for the application of large-format ink-jet, the double-spray-head ink-jet printer can well solve such problems, and the working mode can be freely switched, thereby improving the flexibility and ease of use of users.

[0015] The cabinet size is same as the common single-jet ink-jet printer, but the double-jet ink-jet printer can jet more than double the number of ink-jet points on each column, i.e. more than double the number of lines, and two jets jet half of the lines respectively, so that the jetting speed is higher; and the double-CPU independent control mode is used to make the two CPUs in parallel state, so that the work efficiency is improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] The application will be further described below in combination with the drawings and examples, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective structural schematic view of the double-jet ink-jet printer in some embodiments of the application; Figure 2 is a perspective structural schematic view of the cabinet shown in the figure; Figure 1 Figure 3 is a perspective structural schematic view of the cabinet shown in the figure; Figure 1 Figure 4 is a combined perspective structural schematic view of the ink core mechanism and the adding mechanism shown in the figure; Figure 1 Figure 5 is another perspective structural schematic view of the ink core mechanism and the adding mechanism shown in the figure; Figure 4 Figure 6 is a perspective structural schematic view of the ink core mechanism shown in the figure; Figure 5 Figure 7 is a combined perspective structural schematic view of the ink cartridge mounting seat, the ink cartridge, the solvent cartridge mounting seat and the solvent cartridge shown in the figure; Figure 4 Figure 8 is a perspective structural schematic view of the solvent adding mechanism shown in the figure; Figure 4 Figure 9 is a flow schematic view of the double-jet ink-jet printer in some embodiments of the application; Figure 10 Figure 9 is a flow schematic view of the ink core mechanism shown in the figure; Figure 11 Figure 9 is a flow schematic view of the ink supply assembly and the viscosity detection assembly shown in the figure; Figure 12 Figure 9 is a flow schematic view of the suction assembly shown in the figure; Figure 13 Figure 9 is a flow schematic view of the recovery assembly shown in the figure; Figure 14 Figure 9 is a flow schematic view of the adding mechanism shown in the figure; Figure 15 ​​​​​​​​​​​​is Figure 14 a flowchart of the ink adding assembly shown in FIG. 1; Figure 16 is Figure 14 a flowchart of the solvent adding assembly shown in FIG. 2; Figure 17 is Figure 9 a flowchart of the inkjet head shown in FIG. 3; Figure 18 is Figure 9 a flowchart of the double-inkjet-head inkjet printer shown in FIG. 4; Figure 19 is Figure 1 a perspective view of the inkjet head shown in FIG. 3. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] In order to have a clearer understanding of the technical features, objectives and effects of the present application, the specific embodiments of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, it should be understood that the directions or positional relationships indicated by "front", "back", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "head", "tail" and the like are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the drawings, constructed and operated in a particular direction, and are only for the convenience of describing the technical solutions, and cannot be understood as indicating that the devices or elements indicated must have a particular direction, therefore, it cannot be understood as a limitation on the present application.

[0018] It should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "mounting", "connecting", "connecting", "fixing", "setting" and the like should be understood broadly, for example, it can be fixedly connected, or it can be detachably connected, or it can be integrated; it can be mechanically connected, or it can be electrically connected; it can be directly connected, or it can be indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, or it can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements. When an element is referred to as "on" or "under" another element, the element can be "directly" or "indirectly" located on the other element, or there can be one or more intervening elements. The terms "first", "second", "third" and the like are only for the convenience of describing the technical solutions, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features, therefore, the features with "first", "second", "third" and the like can be explicitly or implicitly included one or more of the features. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the present application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0019] In the following description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are set forth such as particular architectures, techniques, etc. in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present application. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present application can be practiced in other embodiments that depart from these specific details. In other instances, detailed descriptions of well-known methods, devices, circuits, and

[0020] The technical solution adopted by the present application to solve its technical problems is: As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 9 , some embodiments of the present application disclose a double-nozzle ink-jet printer, which comprises a shell 10, an ink core mechanism 20, an adding mechanism 30, two nozzles 40 and a control mechanism 50. Among them, the ink core mechanism 20, the adding mechanism 30 and the control mechanism 50 are respectively arranged in the shell 10, and the two nozzles 40 are respectively arranged outside the shell 10. The ink core mechanism 20 is used for temporarily storing ink, and the ink core mechanism 20 is respectively connected with the two nozzles 40 to provide ink for the two nozzles 40 so that the two nozzles 40 can perform inkjet printing. The adding mechanism 30 is connected with the ink core mechanism 20, and the adding mechanism 30 is used for adding ink and a solvent for diluting ink to the ink core mechanism 20. The control mechanism 50 is used for controlling the working operation between the ink core mechanism 20, the adding mechanism 30 and the two nozzles 40, and the control mechanism 50 is respectively electrically connected with the ink core mechanism 20, the adding mechanism 30 and the two nozzles 40.

[0021] With reference to Figure 1 , in some embodiments, the shell 10 comprises a lower shell 11 and an upper shell 12 arranged on the lower shell 11, and the ink core mechanism 20 and the adding mechanism 30 are respectively installed in the lower shell 11, and the control mechanism 50 is installed in the upper shell 12.

[0022] As shown in Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 10As shown, in some embodiments, the ink core mechanism 20 may include a mixing cylinder 21, an ink supply assembly 22, two recovery assemblies 23, a suction assembly 25, and a viscosity detection assembly 24. The mixing cylinder 21 temporarily stores ink, the color of which can be selected as needed. One end of the ink supply assembly 22 is inserted into the mixing cylinder 21, and the other end is connected to two printheads 40 to supply ink to the printheads 40. The printheads 40 are connected to the mixing cylinder 21 via the recovery assembly 23 for ink recovery. The suction assembly 25 is connected between the ink supply assembly 22 and the adding mechanism 30, for drawing ink or solvent from the adding mechanism 30 into the mixing cylinder 21. The viscosity detection assembly 24 is located between the mixing cylinder 21 and the ink supply assembly 22 to detect the viscosity of the ink. The adding mechanism 30 is also connected to one of the recovery assemblies 23; when there is no ink in the mixing cylinder 21, the recovery assembly 23 draws ink from the adding mechanism 30 into the mixing cylinder 21.

[0023] Specifically, the ink supply assembly 22 draws ink from the mixing tank 21 to provide a stable supply of ink to the printhead 40. The printhead 40 continuously sprays ink, forming continuous, regular ink droplets with equal spacing. The ink droplets corresponding to the characters to be printed are controlled and sprayed onto the object surface, while unwanted ink droplets are returned to the mixing tank 21 via the recycling assembly 23. During the ink supply process to the printhead 40, some ink enters the viscosity detection assembly 24 for viscosity testing.

[0024] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the mixing cylinder 21 includes a cylinder body 211 and a cylinder cover 212 fastened to the opening of the cylinder body 211. The cylinder body 211 is detachably installed at the inner bottom of the lower housing 11.

[0025] like Figure 10 and Figure 11In some embodiments, the ink supply assembly 22 includes an ink supply pipe 221, a delivery pump 222, a first filter 223, a pressure sensor 224, a first damping filter 225, a pressure buffer 229, a second filter 226, a first valve 227, and a three-way connector 228. One end of the ink supply pipe 221 is inserted into the bottom of the mixing cylinder 21. The delivery pump 222, first filter 223, pressure sensor 224, first damping filter 225, pressure buffer 229, second filter 226, and first valve 227 are sequentially arranged on the ink supply pipe 221. The three-way connector 228 is connected to the other end of the ink supply pipe 221, and two printheads 40 are respectively connected to the three-way connector 228. The delivery pump 222 is used to generate positive pressure for ink delivery. The first filter 223 and the second filter 226 are used to filter the ink to prevent impurities from entering the printheads 40. The pressure sensor 224 is used to monitor the pressure of the ink delivery within the ink supply pipe 221. The first damping filter 225 generates damping to allow the ink to enter the pressure buffer 229 smoothly; at the same time, the ink also needs to be filtered.

[0026] Understandably, when the first valve 227 is opened, the delivery pump 222 generates negative pressure to draw the ink from the mixing cylinder 21 into the ink supply pipe 221. The ink in the ink pipe 221 is filtered by the first filter 223 and enters the pressure sensor 224. The first damping filter 225 and the pressure buffer 229 regulate the pressure of the ink in the ink pipe 221, ensuring that it is delivered to the second filter 226 under a stable pressure, and then enters the two printheads 40 respectively. Specifically, the delivery pump 222, the first filter 223, the pressure buffer 229, and the first valve 227 are respectively located at the inner bottom of the lower housing 11 and are spaced apart on one side of the mixing cylinder 21.

[0027] like Figure 4 and Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments, the recycling component 23 includes a recycling pipe 231 and a recycling pump 232. One end of the recycling pipe 231 is connected to the printhead 40, and the other end is connected to the mixing tank 21. The recycling pump 232 is mounted on the recycling pipe 231. Understandably, unwanted ink droplets from the printhead 40 enter the recycling pipe 231 and are drawn into the mixing tank 21 by the recycling pump 232, thereby preventing ink ejection from the printhead 40.

[0028] like Figure 6 and Figure 12As shown, in some embodiments, the suction assembly 25 includes a first suction pipe 251, a venturi 252, a second suction pipe 253, a third filter 254, and a second valve 255. One end of the first suction pipe 251 is connected to the ink supply pipe 221 between the delivery pump 222 and the first filter 223, and the other end is connected to the venturi 252; the outlet of the venturi 252 is connected to the mixing cylinder 21. The third filter 254 is disposed on the first suction pipe 251; one end of the second suction pipe 253 is connected to the venturi 252, and the other end is connected to the adding mechanism 30; the second valve 255 is disposed on the second suction pipe 253. Specifically, the venturi 252 and the second valve 255 are respectively mounted on the cylinder head 212, and the outlet of the venturi 252 passes through the cylinder head 212 and connects to the cylinder body 211.

[0029] Understandably, when the second valve 255 is opened, the delivery pump 222 generates positive pressure, and the ink in the mixing cylinder 21 enters the ink supply pipe 221 (partial ink supply 221), the third filter 254, and the venturi 252 in sequence. When the ink passes through the venturi 252, negative pressure is generated, and the ink or solvent in the adding mechanism 30 enters the mixing cylinder 21 after entering the venturi 252 through the second suction pipe 253.

[0030] like Figure 6 and Figure 12 As shown, in some embodiments, the viscosity detection component 24 includes a first viscosity delivery pipe 241, a second damping filter 242, a third valve 243, a viscosity detector 244, and a second viscosity delivery pipe 245. One end of the first viscosity delivery pipe 241 is connected to the ink supply pipe 221 between the first filter 223 and the pressure sensor 224, and the other end is connected to the viscosity detector 244; the outlet end of the viscosity detector 244 is connected to the mixing cylinder 21. The second damping filter 242 and the third valve 243 are disposed on the first viscosity delivery pipe 241. One end of the second viscosity delivery pipe 245 is connected to the third valve 243, and the other end is connected to the mixing cylinder 21. Specifically, the third valve 243 and the viscosity detector 244 are respectively mounted on the cylinder cover 212, and the outlet end of the viscosity detector 244 passes through the cylinder cover 212 and connects to the cylinder body 211.

[0031] Understandably, when viscosity testing is required, the third valve 243 is opened, and the second damping filter 242 generates damping. Therefore, after the ink in the ink supply pipeline 221 passes through the first filter 223, most of the ink will enter the first damping filter 225 to supply ink to the printhead 40, and a small portion of the ink will pass through the second damping filter 242 and the third valve 243 before entering the viscosity detector 244 for viscosity testing. The tested ink will then return to the mixing tank 21.

[0032] When viscosity testing is not required, close (adjust) the third valve 243. A small portion of the ink will pass through the second damping filter 242 and the third valve 243, enter the second viscosity delivery pipe 245, and then return to the mixing cylinder 21.

[0033] like Figure 5 and Figure 14 As shown, in some embodiments, the adding mechanism 30 includes an ink adding component 31 and a solvent adding component 32, both connected to the second suction pipe 253 of the suction component 25. The ink adding component 31 is used to add ink to the mixing tank 21. The solvent adding component 32 is used to add solvent to the mixing tank 21, which can dilute the viscous ink in the mixing tank 21.

[0034] like Figure 7 and Figure 15 As shown, in some embodiments, the ink adding assembly 31 includes an ink cartridge mounting base 311, an ink cartridge 312, a first ink adding pipe 313, a fourth valve 314, a second ink adding pipe 315, and an eighth valve 316. The ink cartridge mounting base 311 is disposed on the inner bottom wall of the lower housing 11 and spaced apart from the mixing cylinder 21. The ink cartridge 312 is detachably mounted on the ink cartridge mounting base 311. One end of the first ink adding pipe 313 is disposed on the ink cartridge mounting base 311 and communicates with the opening of the ink cartridge 312; the other end is connected to the second suction pipe 253. The fourth valve 314 is disposed on the second suction pipe 253 and is used to control the opening and closing of the second suction pipe 253. One end of the second ink adding pipe 315 is connected to the first ink adding pipe 313, and the other end is connected to the recovery pump 232. Specifically, the ink cartridge mounting base 311 has an L-shaped longitudinal section and internally defines a cavity for detachably accommodating the ink cartridge 312. The ink filling tube 313 is connected to the bottom of the ink cartridge mounting base 311. The ink cartridge 312 is installed with its opening facing downwards, and the opening is connected to the first ink filling tube 313.

[0035] Adding ink when the mixing tank 21 contains ink: Open the fourth valve 314 and close the eighth valve 316. Under the negative pressure of the venturi 252, the ink in the ink cartridge 312 enters the first ink adding pipe 313, the second suction pipe 253 and the venturi 252 in sequence.

[0036] Adding ink when there is no ink stored in the mixing tank 21: Open the fourth valve 314, open the eighth valve 316, and close the second valve 255; the recovery pump 232 draws ink, and the ink in the ink cartridge 312 enters the mixing tank 21 in sequence through the first ink adding pipe 313, the second ink adding pipe 315, the partial recovery pipe 231, and the recovery pump 232.

[0037] Understandably, the side wall of the lower housing 11 can be rotated open, at which point the ink cartridge 312 will be exposed. The ink cartridge 312 can be removed from the ink cartridge mounting base 311 and a new ink cartridge 312 can be replaced.

[0038] like Figure 8 and Figure 16 As shown, in some embodiments, the solvent adding assembly 32 may include a solvent cartridge mounting base 321, a solvent cartridge 322, a solvent adding pipe 323, a fifth valve 324, a fourth filter 325, a adding pump 326, a solvent storage tank 327, and a sixth valve 328. The solvent cartridge mounting base 321 is disposed on the inner bottom wall of the lower housing 11 and is integrally formed with the ink cartridge mounting base 311. The solvent cartridge 322 is detachably mounted on the solvent cartridge mounting base 321. One end of the solvent adding pipe 323 is connected to the solvent cartridge mounting base 321 and communicates with the solvent cartridge 322; the other end of the solvent adding pipe 323 is connected to the second suction pipe 253. The fifth valve 324, the fourth filter 325, the adding pump 326, the solvent storage tank 327, and the sixth valve 328 are sequentially connected to the solvent adding pipe 323. Specifically, the solvent storage tank 327 is mounted on the inner bottom wall of the lower housing 11 and is spaced apart beside the mixing tank 21.

[0039] Understandably, opening the fifth valve 324 and the sixth valve 328 activates the addition pump 326, drawing solvent from the solvent cartridge 322 through the solvent addition pipe 323 into the fifth valve 324, the fourth filter 325, and the addition pump 326, ultimately leading to the solvent storage tank 327. When the ink in the mixing tank 21 becomes viscous and requires solvent dilution, the sixth valve 328 is opened, and the negative pressure generated by the venturi 252 draws the solvent from the solvent storage tank 327 into the venturi 252.

[0040] Continue to refer to Figure 16 In some embodiments, the solvent adding component 32 also includes an atmospheric pressure balancing module 329 disposed on the solvent storage tank 327; which is used to balance the pressure in the solvent storage tank 237 and the solvent box 322 with the external atmospheric pressure.

[0041] In some embodiments, the atmospheric pressure balancing module 329 includes a first balancing pipe 3291, an atmospheric pressure balancing valve 3292, a second balancing pipe 3293, and a first one-way valve 3294. The first balancing pipe 3291 is mounted on the solvent storage tank 327, and the atmospheric pressure balancing valve 3292 is mounted on the first balancing pipe 3291 and connected to the external environment. One end of the second balancing pipe 3293 is connected to the solvent storage tank 327, and the other end is connected to the fifth valve 324. The first one-way valve 3294 is connected to the second balancing pipe 3293. Understandably, when the solvent in the solvent storage tank 327 is drawn away by the suction assembly 25, the pressure inside the solvent storage tank 327 becomes lower than the external atmospheric pressure. The external atmospheric pressure will then open the atmospheric pressure balancing valve 3293, allowing outside air to enter the solvent storage tank 327 through the first balancing pipe 3291. When the solvent cartridge 322 is drawn in by the addition pump 326, a negative pressure is generated inside the solvent cartridge 322. Air in the solvent storage tank 327 will then open the first one-way valve 3294 and enter the solvent cartridge 322 through the second balancing pipe 3293. The first one-way valve 3294 prevents solvent in the solvent cartridge 322 from entering the solvent storage tank 327 through the second balancing pipe 3293 when there is a negative pressure inside the solvent storage tank 327.

[0042] like Figure 9 and Figure 18 As shown, the dual-nozzle inkjet printer also includes a cleaning mechanism 60 that is respectively connected between the solvent storage tank 327 and the two printheads 40 or on the ink core mechanism 20, for cleaning the printheads 40 and the ink core mechanism 20.

[0043] Refer again Figure 18 In some embodiments, the cleaning mechanism 60 includes a first cleaning pipe 61, a second one-way valve 62, a cleaning filter 63, a second cleaning pipe 64, and a seventh valve 65. One end of the first cleaning pipe 61 is connected to the solvent storage tank 327, and the other end is connected to two printheads 40 respectively. The second one-way valve 62 and the cleaning filter 63 are sequentially arranged on the first cleaning pipe 61. One end of the second cleaning pipe 64 is connected to the ink supply pipe 221 between the first valve 227 and the three-way connector 228; the other end is connected to the second suction pipe 253 between the venturi 252 and the second valve 255. The seventh valve 65 is arranged on the second cleaning pipe 64.

[0044] Understandably, the solvent in the solvent storage tank 327 enters the two printheads 40 through the first cleaning pipe 61, then enters the ink supply pipe 221, and subsequently enters the second cleaning pipe 64, the second suction pipe 253, the Venturi pipe 252, and the first suction pipe 251 before entering the mixing tank 21. Alternatively, the solvent in the solvent storage tank 327 can enter the two printheads 40 through the first cleaning pipe 61, then enter the recovery pipe 231 and, via the recovery pump 232, enter the mixing tank 21.

[0045] like Figure 17 and Figure 19 As shown, in some embodiments, the printhead 40 includes a base 41, a first printhead conduit 42, a nozzle 43, a deflection electrode 44, a recovery tank 45, a second printhead conduit 46, and a printhead valve assembly 47. The first printhead conduit 42, nozzle 43, deflection electrode 44, recovery tank 45, second printhead conduit 46, and printhead valve assembly 47 are respectively disposed on the base 41. One end of the first printhead conduit 42 is connected to a three-way connector 228, and the other end is connected to the nozzle 43. Ink in the ink supply conduit 221 reaches the nozzle 43 through the first printhead conduit 42. The deflection electrode 44 is disposed directly below the nozzle 43, and the recovery tank 45 is disposed directly below the deflection electrode 44; the recovery tank 45 is connected to the recovery conduit 231 of the recovery assembly 23. One end of the second printhead conduit 46 is connected to the nozzle 43, and the other end is connected to the recovery conduit 231 of the recovery assembly 23. The printhead valve assembly 47 is disposed between the first cleaning pipe 61 and the first printhead pipe 42, and also between the second printhead pipe 46 and the recovery pipe 231, for controlling the flow of ink or solvent in the first printhead pipe 42 and the second printhead pipe 46.

[0046] Under pressure, ink is ejected from nozzle 43 as continuous, regular, and equally spaced droplets. When the droplets pass through deflection electrode 44, the droplets corresponding to the characters to be printed are charged with a specific charge, while the droplets not to be printed are uncharged. The charged droplets are deflected according to their charge and fly towards the surface of the object to be printed to form characters. The uncharged, unwanted droplets drip straight into the recovery tank 45. Under the suction of recovery pump 232, the ink in recovery tank 45 enters mixing tank 21 through recovery pipe 231.

[0047] Continue to refer to Figure 17In some embodiments, the nozzle valve assembly 47 includes a first nozzle valve 471, a second nozzle valve 472, a third nozzle valve 473, and a fourth nozzle valve 474. The first nozzle valve 471 is connected between the first cleaning pipe 61 and the first nozzle pipe 42; the second nozzle valve 472 is connected to the first nozzle pipe 42 between the second nozzle valve 472 and the nozzle 43; the third nozzle valve 473 is connected to the second nozzle pipe 46 between the nozzle 43 and the recovery pipe 231; and the fourth nozzle valve 474 is connected to the recovery pipe 231 connected to the recovery tank 45.

[0048] During printing: The first printhead valve 471 is closed, and the second printhead valve 472 and the fourth printhead valve 474 are opened. The ink supplied by the ink supply pipe 211 enters the first printhead pipe 42, passes through the second printhead valve 472, and enters the nozzle 42 for printing. Ink not needed for printing enters the recovery tank 45. The ink in the recovery tank 45 passes through the recovery pipe 231, the fourth printhead valve 474, and the recovery pump 232 before entering the mixing tank 21.

[0049] Cleaning Line 1: Open the first nozzle valve 471, close the second nozzle valve 472, close the first valve 227, and open the seventh valve 65; the solvent in the solvent storage tank 327 passes through the first cleaning pipe 61, the first nozzle valve 471, part of the first nozzle pipe 42, and then enters the second cleaning pipe 64, the seventh valve 65, part of the second suction pipe 253, the Venturi pipe 252, and part of the first suction pipe 251 before entering the mixing tank 21.

[0050] Cleaning Line 2: Open the first nozzle valve 471, open the second nozzle valve 472, close the first valve 227, open the third nozzle valve 473, and close the fourth nozzle valve 474; the solvent in the solvent storage tank 327 passes sequentially through the first cleaning pipe 61, the first nozzle valve 471, part of the first nozzle pipe 42, the second nozzle valve 472, the nozzle 43, the third nozzle valve 473, and the second nozzle pipe 46 before entering the recovery pipe 231 and the recovery pump 232, and then into the mixing tank 21.

[0051] Cleaning Line 3: Open the first nozzle valve 471, open the second nozzle valve 472, close the first valve 227, close the third nozzle valve 473, and open the fourth nozzle valve 474; the solvent in the solvent storage tank 327 passes sequentially through the first cleaning pipe 61, the first nozzle valve 471, part of the first nozzle pipe 42, the second nozzle valve 472, the nozzle 43, and the recovery tank 45 before entering the recovery pipe 231, the fourth nozzle valve 474, and the recovery pump 232, and then enters the mixing tank 21.

[0052] like Figure 2 andFigure 19 As shown, in some embodiments, the printhead 40 also includes a flexible tube 48 and a heating block 49. The flexible tube 48 connects the housing 10 and the base 41. The first printhead pipe 42, which connects the ink supply pipe 221 to the first printhead valve 471, and the recovery pipe 231, which connects the fourth printhead valve 474 to the recovery pump 232, can be fitted inside the flexible tube 48 for protection. The heating block 49 is disposed on the base 41 and is used to heat the ink in the first printhead pipe 42, controlling the temperature of the ink in the nozzle area to ensure printing quality and process stability. A phase detection plate is also mounted on the base 41, symmetrically spaced from the deflection electrodes.

[0053] In some embodiments, the control mechanism 50 includes a screen control module 51, a button control module 52, an alarm module 53, a terminal interface module 54, a power switch module 55, a main board 56, a communication board 57, two high-voltage transformers 58, a PCB board 59, and an ink core board 510. The screen control module 51 and the alarm module 53 are respectively mounted on the top of the upper housing 12. The button control module 52, the terminal interface module 54, and the power switch module 55 are respectively disposed on the side walls of the upper housing 12. The main board 56, the communication board 57, the two high-voltage transformers 58, and the PCB board 59 are respectively mounted inside the upper housing 12. The ink core board 510 is mounted on the mixing cylinder 21. The screen control module 51 uses a display screen. The main board 56 is used to control all operating logic of the machine. The button control module 52 is used to control operations such as turning the device on. The two high-voltage transformers 58 provide a high-voltage electric field to the print head.

[0054] This dual-head inkjet printer includes two usage modes: integrated mode and independent mode.

[0055] All-in-one mode: In this mode, its functions are not much different from those of a traditional single-head inkjet printer. The obvious difference is that the printing range is doubled. All other controls are integrated, allowing for simultaneous power on / off and simultaneous printing start / stop.

[0056] Independent Mode: In this mode, the ink lines of the two printheads can be turned on or off individually, or simultaneously. The printing range is doubled compared to traditional inkjet printers, and the printing information for each printhead can be edited separately. For example, a counter can distinguish the number of prints, making it easier to observe the printhead's working status. During operation, you can choose to print with both printheads simultaneously or with a single printhead printing individually, while stopping printing with the other printhead. This is more suitable for real-world production situations.

[0057] The following section will further explain the dual-head inkjet printer in conjunction with its usage.

[0058] This dual-head inkjet printer features two printheads that can operate together or independently, allowing one printer to perform the functions of two. In certain special applications where installation space for the inkjet equipment is limited, or for large-format marking applications, the dual-head inkjet printer effectively solves these problems. Furthermore, it allows for free switching between operating modes, enhancing user flexibility and ease of use.

[0059] A stable and reliable ink path control design suitable for dual-head inkjet printers. The ink path control design employs dual recovery components to ensure the stability of the negative pressure recovery between the two printheads. Both printheads are equipped with ink droplet ejection speed monitoring and positive pressure balancing systems, adjusting the ink pressure in real time according to the printhead status to ensure stable system operation.

[0060] The dual-printhead control system features a user-friendly human-machine interface. The interface uses a single-page, flat list of two parameters, making it easier for users to understand the settings compared to other imported dual-printhead inkjet printers. Furthermore, the inkjet information editing software allows for free joint or individual editing of the two printheads, better aligning with user operating habits.

[0061] In combined printing mode, all routine functions such as editing the printed content and setting parameters can be completed on the same interface. There is no need to set the parameters of the two printheads separately and then stitch the printed content together and synchronize the printing parameters according to the actual use scenario. Moreover, in this mode, key printing indicators such as printing resolution and printing speed can be doubled for single printhead inkjet printers.

[0062] In independent operation mode, one inkjet printer can perform all the functions of two single-head inkjet printers. For certain special applications where installation space for the inkjet equipment is limited, or where only one ink path system is needed to increase the machine's environmental friendliness, dual-head inkjet printers can effectively solve these problems. Moreover, in terms of operating costs, the cost of a dual-head machine, using two printheads, is only 1.5 times that of a single-head inkjet printer.

[0063] The dual-mode operation is integrated into the same machine control system, allowing users to switch between working modes freely and quickly, thus improving user flexibility. It is compatible with the hardware resources of both working modes, while the overall machine size is only that of a single-head inkjet printer, resulting in a more precise and ingenious design layout.

[0064] In the ink path control design, a dual recovery component is adopted to ensure the stability of the negative pressure during dual printhead recovery. Compared to single-printhead inkjet printers, dual-printhead ink path systems need to consider the negative pressure circulation of both printheads. Unstable negative pressure can easily lead to a serious problem of ink "spillage" at the recovery slot. This solution uses a separate recovery component for each printhead to solve this problem. Considering the layout space and heat dissipation system design, the external dimensions of this dual-printhead printing mechanism are the same as those of a single-printhead machine. The dual pumps are coordinated and controlled within the same ink path system, ensuring reliable operation and mitigating overall negative pressure changes in the ink path system.

[0065] Both printheads are equipped with an ink droplet ejection speed monitoring and positive pressure balancing system, which adjusts the ink pressure in real time according to the printhead status to ensure stable system operation. One design challenge lies in detecting the ink droplet ejection speed, which needs to be completed within a mere 10mm space and under 2.80 bar positive pressure, requiring a time accuracy of at least 10ns. Furthermore, the accuracy of the speed directly impacts the effectiveness of positive pressure balancing. The second challenge is the timely balancing of the positive pressure system. Achieving identical printing results from both printheads requires highly timely balancing of key operating parameters such as pressure, necessitating real-time calibration of the dual printheads' operating status.

[0066] The chassis size is the same as a standard single-head inkjet printer, but the dual-head design allows for twice the number of print dots per column, meaning twice the number of rows can be printed. When printing multiple rows, each printhead prints half, resulting in higher printing speed. Furthermore, it uses a dual-CPU independent control mode, operating in parallel to improve efficiency. Therefore, dual-head inkjet printer control technology is at the forefront of small character inkjet printing, making its development imperative. With technological advancements, dual-head inkjet printer control technology remains at the forefront and represents the mainstream direction for the future.

[0067] It should be noted that those skilled in the art can freely combine the above-mentioned technical features without departing from the concept of the present invention, and can also make several modifications and improvements, all of which fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A dual-head inkjet printer, characterized in that, include: Shell (10); Ink core mechanism (20), the ink core mechanism (20) is disposed in the housing (10) for temporarily storing ink; An adding mechanism (30) is disposed inside the housing (10) and connected to the ink core mechanism (20) for adding ink to the ink core mechanism (20) or solvent for diluting the ink. Two printheads (40) are respectively connected to the outside of the housing (10) and communicate with the ink core mechanism (20). The ink core mechanism (20) provides ink to the two printheads (40) and performs printing. The cleaning mechanism (60) is respectively connected between the adding mechanism (30) and the two nozzles (40) or / and on the ink core mechanism (20). The cleaning mechanism (60) delivers the solvent in the adding mechanism (30) to the two nozzles (40) or / and the ink core mechanism (20) for cleaning.

2. The dual-head inkjet printer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ink core mechanism (20) includes a mixing cylinder (21) disposed in the housing (10) for temporary storage of ink and two recovery components (23) respectively connected between the mixing cylinder (21) and the two printheads (40), the recovery components (23) transporting ink that is not needed by the printheads (40) back to the mixing cylinder (21); The adding mechanism (30) is also connected to one of the recycling components (23), through which the ink in the adding mechanism (30) is transported to the mixing tank (21).

3. The dual-head inkjet printer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ink core mechanism (20) further includes an ink supply assembly (22) that is respectively connected between the mixing cylinder (21) and the two printheads (40) and a suction assembly (25) that is respectively connected between the mixing cylinder (21) and the adding mechanism (30); the ink supply assembly (22) delivers the ink in the mixing cylinder (21) to the two printheads (40), and the suction assembly (25) delivers the ink and / or solvent in the adding mechanism (30) and mixes it with the ink in the mixing cylinder (21).

4. The dual-head inkjet printer according to claim 3, characterized in that, The recycling assembly (23) includes a recycling pipe (231) connecting the mixing cylinder (21) and the nozzle (40) and a recycling pump (232) disposed on the recycling pipe (231). Or / and, the adding mechanism (30) is connected to one of the recycling pipes (231).

5. The dual-head inkjet printer according to claim 3, characterized in that, The adding mechanism (30) includes an ink adding component (31) and a solvent adding component (32) respectively connected to the suction component (25). The ink adding component (31) is used to add ink to the mixing tank (21), and the solvent adding component (32) is used to add solvent for diluting the ink to the mixing tank (21).

6. The dual-head inkjet printer according to claim 5, characterized in that, The solvent addition assembly (32) includes a solvent cartridge mounting base (321), a solvent cartridge (322), a solvent addition pipeline (323), a fifth valve (324), an addition pump (326), a solvent storage tank (327), and a sixth valve (328). The solvent box mounting base (321) and the solvent storage tank (327) are respectively disposed inside the housing (10). The solvent box (322) is detachably disposed on the solvent box mounting base (321). One end of the solvent adding pipe (323) is connected to the solvent box mounting base (321) and communicates with the opening of the solvent box (322); the other end is connected to the suction assembly (25). The fifth valve (324), the adding pump (326), the solvent storage tank (327) and the sixth valve (328) are sequentially connected to the solvent adding pipe (323).

7. The dual-head inkjet printer according to claim 6, characterized in that, The solvent addition component (32) also includes an atmospheric pressure balance module (329), which includes a first balance pipe (3291), an atmospheric pressure balance valve (3292), a second balance pipe (3293), and a first check valve (3294). The first balancing pipe (3291) is installed on the solvent storage tank (327), and the atmospheric pressure balancing valve (3292) is installed on the first balancing pipe (3291) and connected to the external environment; one end of the second balancing pipe (3293) is connected to the solvent storage tank (327), and the other end is connected to the fifth valve (324), and the first one-way valve (3294) is connected to the second balancing pipe (3293).

8. The dual-head inkjet printer according to claim 6, characterized in that, The cleaning mechanism (60) includes a first cleaning pipe (61), a second one-way valve (62), a cleaning filter (63), a second cleaning pipe (64), and a seventh valve (65). One end of the first cleaning pipe (61) is connected to the solvent storage tank (327), and the other end is connected to the two nozzles (40); the second one-way valve (62) and the cleaning filter (63) are sequentially arranged on the first cleaning pipe (61); one end of the second cleaning pipe (64) is connected to the ink supply assembly (22), and the other end is connected to the suction assembly (25); the seventh valve (65) is arranged on the second cleaning pipe (64).

9. The dual-head inkjet printer according to claim 8, characterized in that, The nozzle (40) includes a base (41), a first nozzle pipe (42), a nozzle (43), a deflection electrode (44), a recovery tank (45), a second nozzle pipe (46), and a nozzle valve assembly (47). The first printhead conduit (42), nozzle (43), deflection electrode (44), recovery tank (45), second printhead conduit (46), and printhead valve assembly (47) are respectively disposed on the substrate (41); one end of the first printhead conduit (42) is connected to the ink supply assembly (22), and the other end is connected to the nozzle (43); the deflection electrode (44) is disposed directly below the nozzle (43), and the recovery tank (45) is disposed directly below the deflection electrode (44); the recovery tank (45) is connected to the recovery conduit (231); one end of the second printhead conduit (46) is connected to the nozzle (43), and the other end is connected to the recovery conduit (231); the printhead valve assembly (47) is disposed between the first cleaning conduit (61) and the first printhead conduit (42) or / and between the second printhead conduit (46) and the recovery conduit (231); Or / and, the nozzle valve assembly (47) includes a first nozzle valve (471), a second nozzle valve (472), a third nozzle valve (473), and a fourth nozzle valve (474); the first nozzle valve (471) is connected between the first cleaning pipe (61) and the first nozzle pipe (42); the second nozzle valve (472) is connected to the first nozzle pipe (42) between the second nozzle valve (472) and the nozzle (43); the third nozzle valve (473) is connected to the second nozzle pipe (46) between the nozzle (43) and the recovery pipe (231); and the fourth nozzle valve (474) is connected to the recovery pipe (231) connected to the recovery tank (45).

10. The dual-head inkjet printer according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a control mechanism (50), which is electrically connected to the ink core mechanism (20), the adding mechanism (30) and the two printheads (40) respectively, for controlling operation.

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