Drying device and printing device

Abstract

The invention provides a drying device capable of appropriately drying a medium and a printing device. A drying device (13) is provided with: a drying furnace (47) into which a conveyed medium (99) enters; a heating unit (53) that heats the medium in the drying furnace; an exhaust unit (56) that exhausts air from the drying furnace; the movable part is formed in a movable mode, an air inlet is formed in the drying furnace, air flows into the drying furnace from the outside of the drying furnace, and the exhaust part is provided with a pipeline (57) extending from the drying furnace; and a fan (58) which discharges air from the inside of the drying furnace to the outside of the drying furnace through the duct, and the movable part moves to adjust at least one of the air intake amount of the air flowing in from the air inlet and the air discharge amount of the air discharged from the drying furnace.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a drying apparatus and a printing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a drying apparatus comprising a heating section for heating a medium and an exhaust section for venting steam. The drying apparatus dries the medium by heating it with the heating section and by venting steam generated from the medium through the exhaust section.

[0003] In such drying equipment, the exhaust volume may be excessive or insufficient depending on the environment. When the drying equipment is installed in a factory, the exhaust volume may be excessive or insufficient depending on the factory's exhaust performance. When the exhaust volume is excessive or insufficient, there is a possibility that the drying equipment cannot properly dry the medium. For example, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, there is a possibility that the medium may be overheated due to a rise in temperature within the drying equipment. When the exhaust volume is excessive, there is a possibility that the drying of the medium may become inadequate due to a drop in temperature within the drying equipment.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-2473 Summary of the Invention

[0005] A drying apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: a drying oven into which a conveyed medium is introduced; a heating unit for heating the medium inside the drying oven; an exhaust unit for exhausting air from the drying oven; and a movable unit configured to move, having an air inlet on the drying oven for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust unit includes: a duct extending from the drying oven; and a fan that exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable unit, by moving, adjusts at least one of the air intake volume from the air inlet and the air exhaust volume from the drying oven.

[0006] A drying apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: a drying oven into which a conveyed medium is introduced; a heating unit for heating the medium inside the drying oven; an exhaust unit for exhausting air from the drying oven; and a movable unit configured to move, having an air inlet on the drying oven for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust unit includes: a duct extending from the drying oven; and a fan that exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable unit, by moving, adjusts at least one of the airflow volume and air velocity of the air flowing along the medium inside the drying oven.

[0007] A printing apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: a printing unit that prints an image on a medium; a drying oven into which the conveyed medium is introduced; a heating unit that heats the medium inside the drying oven; an exhaust unit that exhausts air from the drying oven; and a movable unit configured to move, having an air inlet on the drying oven for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust unit includes: a duct extending from the drying oven; and a fan that exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable unit, by moving, adjusts at least one of the air intake volume from the air inlet and the air exhaust volume from the drying oven.

[0008] A printing apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: a printing unit that prints an image on a medium; a drying oven into which the conveyed medium is introduced; a heating unit that heats the medium inside the drying oven; an exhaust unit that exhausts air from the drying oven; and a movable unit configured to move, having an air inlet on the drying oven for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust unit includes: a duct extending from the drying oven; and a fan that exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable unit, by moving, adjusts at least one of the airflow volume and airflow speed of the air flowing along the medium inside the drying oven. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 A diagram illustrating one embodiment of a printing system.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of the drying apparatus.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional view of the drying device.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the drying apparatus.

[0013] Figure 5 To indicate and Figure 4 Three-dimensional diagrams of different modification examples.

[0014] Figure 6 To indicate and Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 Three-dimensional diagrams of different modification examples.

[0015] Figure 7 To indicate and Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 Three-dimensional diagrams of different variations.

[0016] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the drying apparatus shown.

[0017] Figure 9 To indicate and Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 Three-dimensional diagrams of different variations.

[0018] Figure 10 To indicate and Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 9 Sectional views of different variations.

[0019] Figure 11 To indicate and Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 Sectional views of different variations.

[0020] Figure 12 To indicate and Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 Sectional views of different variations. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a printing system having a printing apparatus and a drying apparatus will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] Printing System

[0023] like Figure 1 As shown, the printing system 11 includes a printing device 12 and a drying device 13. The printing device 12 is configured to print images on a medium 99. The printing device 12 is, for example, an inkjet printer that prints text, photographs, and other images by spraying ink, an example of a liquid, onto a medium 99 such as paper or cloth. The liquid is, for example, ink containing solvents such as glycerin and water. The drying device 13 is configured to dry the medium 99 on which printing has been performed. Specifically, the drying device 13 dries the medium 99 by heating it. The printing system 11 performs printing and drying on a strip of medium 99 extending from the printing device 12 to the drying device 13. The printing device 12 and the drying device 13 can also work together by sending signals to each other.

[0024] The printing unit 12 and the drying unit 13 are arranged in the transport direction D1. The transport direction D1 is the direction in which the medium 99 is transported from the printing unit 12 to the drying unit 13. In one example, the printing unit 12 and the drying unit 13 may also be arranged with a gap between them in the transport direction D1. In this case, the user can enter between the printing unit 12 and the drying unit 13.

[0025] The printing system 11 includes an input unit 14. The input unit 14 is an interface for inputting information into the printing system 11. The user operates the printing system 11 by operating the input unit 14. The input unit 14 may be, for example, a touch panel. The input unit 14 may also include buttons, levers, switches, etc. The input unit 14 can be mounted on either the printing apparatus 12 or the drying apparatus 13. The printing apparatus 12 may have the input unit 14, or the drying apparatus 13 may have the input unit 14. Alternatively, both the printing apparatus 12 and the drying apparatus 13 may each have the input unit 14.

[0026] The printing system 11 can also be located in the factory 15. The factory 15 has an exhaust mechanism 16. The exhaust mechanism 16 is configured to exhaust air from inside the factory 15 to the outside of the factory 15. The exhaust mechanism 16 has, for example, an exhaust duct 17 and an exhaust fan 18. The exhaust duct 17 extends in a manner that communicates with both inside and outside the factory 15. The exhaust fan 18 is mounted on the exhaust duct 17. The exhaust fan 18 is configured to blow air from inside the factory 15 toward the outside of the factory 15 so as to exhaust air through the exhaust duct 17.

[0027] The printing system 11 is connected to the exhaust mechanism 16. In the printing system 11, vapor is generated during printing on the medium 99 or during the drying of the medium 99. In particular, vapor is generated during the drying of the medium 99 by the drying device 13. Therefore, the exhaust from the printing system 11 contains vapor. When the exhaust from the printing system 11 remains within the factory 15, there is a possibility that vapor may enter the printing system 11 or affect the operators within the factory 15. Therefore, by connecting the exhaust mechanism 16 to the printing system 11, the exhaust from the printing system 11 is discharged outside the factory 15. The exhaust mechanism 16 is not limited to being connected to the printing system 11; it may also be connected to other devices, systems, etc. The exhaust mechanism 16 may also be a mechanism for centrally discharging the exhaust from various devices, systems, etc., installed in the factory 15.

[0028] Printing apparatus

[0029] The printing apparatus 12 may also include an unwinding unit 21. The unwinding unit 21 is configured to unwind the medium 99. For example, the unwinding unit 21 unwinds the medium 99 from a roll. The roll is an article formed by folding the medium 99.

[0030] The unwinding unit 21 may also have an unwinding housing 22. The unwinding housing 22 houses the first roll body R1. The first roll body R1 is a roll body formed by winding the medium 99 before printing.

[0031] The unwinding unit 21 has an unwinding section 23. The unwinding section 23 is configured to unwind the medium 99 from the first roll body R1. In one example, the unwinding section 23 is housed in the unwinding housing 22.

[0032] The unwinding section 23 includes an unwinding shaft 24. The unwinding shaft 24 supports the first roll body R1 in a rotatable manner. The unwinding shaft 24 can rotate actively or passively, and can also be fixed to the unwinding housing 22. By rotating the first roll body R1, the medium 99 is unwound from the first roll body R1. In the unwinding section 23, the first roll body R1 can rotate either by rotating the unwinding shaft 24 or by being pulled out by the medium 99.

[0033] The printing apparatus 12 includes a printing unit 25. The printing unit 25 is configured to perform printing on a medium 99. The printing unit 25 performs printing on the medium 99 that is unwound from the unwinding unit 21. The printing unit 25 may also perform printing on the medium 99 that is unwound from another device.

[0034] The printing unit 25 has a frame 26. The frame 26 is arranged, for example, adjacent to the unwinding housing 22. In one example, the frame 26 and the unwinding housing 22 are arranged in the transport direction D1. In detail, the unwinding housing 22 and the frame 26 are arranged in this order in the transport direction D1.

[0035] The printing unit 25 has a printing section 27. The printing section 27 is housed in a housing 26. The printing section 27 prints an image on a medium 99. The printing section 27 performs printing on the medium 99 by spraying liquid onto the medium 99. The printing section 27 performs printing on the medium 99 that is unwound from the unwinding section 23. The printing section 27 performs printing on the medium 99 that is being transported within the housing 26.

[0036] The printing section 27 has a head 28. The head 28 has a nozzle face 30 with one or more nozzles 29 opening. The head 28 sprays liquid from the nozzles 29 onto the medium 99. The nozzle face 30 is opposite to the medium 99.

[0037] The printing unit 27 may also have a carriage 31. The carriage 31 mounts the head 28. The carriage 31 scans the medium 99. That is, in one example, the head 28 is a serial head that performs printing across the width of the medium 99 by scanning it. The head 28 may also be a line head that can simultaneously spray liquid across the width of the medium 99.

[0038] The printing unit 25 has a conveying section 32. The conveying section 32 is configured to convey the medium 99. The conveying section 32 conveys the medium 99 within the housing 26. In one example, the conveying section 32 conveys the medium 99 in the conveying direction D1. In one example, the conveying section 32 conveys the medium 99 intermittently. This is because, in one example, the head 28 is a serial head. If the head 28 is a line head, the conveying section 32 can also convey the medium 99 continuously.

[0039] The transport section 32 is housed within the frame 26. The transport section 32 transports the medium 99 unwound from the unwinding section 23. Alternatively, the unwinding section 23 can unwind the medium 99 by pulling it from the first roll body R1. The transport section 32 is positioned opposite the printing section 27. In one example, the transport section 32 is located directly below the printing section 27.

[0040] The conveying unit 32 has a first pulley 33, a second pulley 34, and a belt 35. The first pulley 33 and the second pulley 34 are arranged, for example, in the conveying direction D1. The belt 35 is wound around the first pulley 33 and the second pulley 34. The belt 35 rotates together with the first pulley 33 and the second pulley 34.

[0041] The belt 35 supports the medium 99. Specifically, the belt 35 is configured to hold the medium 99. In one example, the belt 35 holds the medium 99 by means of an adhesive. An adhesive is applied to the surface of the belt 35. The medium 99 is adhered to the belt 35 by the adhesive. This stabilizes the posture of the medium 99. The belt 35 can hold the medium 99, for example, by electrostatic force or by negative pressure generated by suction. By rotating the belt 35 while holding the medium 99, the medium 99 is conveyed. The conveying unit 32 is not limited to conveying the medium 99 by means of the belt 35; for example, the medium 99 can also be conveyed by rollers.

[0042] The printing unit 25 may also have more than one printing guide roller. In one example, the printing unit 25 has a first printing guide roller 36 and a second printing guide roller 37. The printing guide rollers are configured to guide the medium 99. The printing guide rollers guide the medium 99 by contacting it. The printing guide rollers guide the medium 99 from the unwinding unit 21 to the printing unit 25, or from the printing apparatus 12 to the drying apparatus 13.

[0043] The printing guide rollers can be located either inside or outside the frame 26. In one example, the first printing guide roller 36 and the second printing guide roller 37 are located outside the frame 26. The first printing guide roller 36 guides the medium 99, for example, by supplying the medium 99 from outside the frame 26 to inside the frame 26. In one example, the first printing guide roller 36 guides the medium 99 unwound from the unwinding section 23 into the frame 26. The second printing guide roller 37 guides the medium 99, for example, by discharging it from inside the frame 26 to outside the frame 26. More specifically, the second printing guide roller 37 guides the printed medium 99 out of the frame 26.

[0044] The printing unit 25 includes a printing control unit 38. The printing control unit 38 controls the printing unit 25. Specifically, the printing control unit 38 controls the printing unit 27 and the transport unit 32. In addition to the printing unit 25, the printing control unit 38 can also control the unwinding unit 21. For example, the printing control unit 38 can also control the unwinding unit 23.

[0045] The printing control unit 38 may also be composed of one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program. The printing control unit 38 may also be composed of one or more dedicated hardware circuits such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) that execute at least a portion of the various processes. The printing control unit 38 may also be composed of a circuit that includes a combination of processors and hardware circuits. Processors include CPUs (Central Processing Units) and memories such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read-Only Memory). Memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. Memory, i.e., computer-readable media, includes all readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0046] The printing control unit 38 can also communicate with the drying device 13. The printing control unit 38 can also send various signals to the drying device 13. The printing control unit 38 can also notify the printing device 12 of its status by sending signals to the drying device 13. The printing control unit 38 can also receive various signals from the drying device 13. The printing control unit 38 can also monitor the status of the drying device 13 by receiving signals from the drying device 13.

[0047] Drying equipment

[0048] The drying apparatus 13 may also include a winding unit 41. The winding unit 41 is configured to wind up the medium 99. By winding up the medium 99, the winding unit 41 forms a roll.

[0049] The winding unit 41 may also have a winding housing 42. The winding housing 42 houses the second roll R2. The second roll R2 is a roll formed by winding the dried medium 99.

[0050] The winding unit 41 has a winding section 43. The winding section 43 is configured to wind up the medium 99. The winding section 43 winds up the dried medium 99. In one example, the winding section 43 is housed in a winding housing 42.

[0051] The take-up section 43 has a take-up shaft 44. The take-up shaft 44 supports the second roll body R2 in a rotatable manner. By rotating the take-up shaft 44, the medium 99 is wound onto the take-up shaft 44. The second roll body R2 rotates as the take-up shaft 44 rotates. The medium 99 is conveyed in the drying apparatus 13 by being wound up by the take-up section 43.

[0052] The winding section 43 is driven in such a way that it winds the medium 99 at a faster speed than the conveying section 32. Specifically, the winding section 43 is driven in a manner that makes the winding speed faster than the conveying speed. This applies tension to the medium 99 between the conveying section 32 and the winding section 43. Applying tension to the medium 99 stabilizes its posture. In one example, applying tension to the medium 99 facilitates its peeling from the belt 35.

[0053] The take-up section 43 may also have a buffer roller 45. The buffer roller 45 may be located either inside or outside the take-up housing 42. Media 99 is wound on the buffer roller 45. Specifically, the media 99 before being wound by the take-up shaft 44 is wound on the buffer roller 45. The buffer roller 45 is configured to be displaced. By displacing the adjustment roller 45, the tension applied to the media 99 is adjusted. As a result, the take-up shaft 44 can stably and easily wind up the media 99. The unwind section 23 may also similarly have a buffer roller 45.

[0054] The drying apparatus 13 includes a drying unit 46. The drying unit 46 is configured to dry the medium 99. The drying unit 46 dries the medium 99 that has been printed by the printing apparatus 12. After being dried by the drying unit 46, the medium 99 is wound up by the winding unit 41.

[0055] The drying unit 46 includes a drying oven 47. The drying oven 47 is arranged, for example, adjacent to the winding housing 42. In one example, the drying oven 47 and the winding housing 42 are arranged in the transport direction D1. Specifically, the drying oven 47 and the winding housing 42 are arranged in this order in the transport direction D1. The transported medium 99 enters the drying oven 47. Specifically, the medium 99 transported from the printing device 12 enters the drying oven 47. The printed medium 99 enters the drying oven 47. In the drying oven 47, the medium 99 is transported via the transport section 32 and the winding section 43.

[0056] The drying oven 47 has one or more openings. In one example, the drying oven 47 has a first opening 48 and a second opening 49. The openings are for the passage of the medium 99. The medium 99 enters the drying oven 47 through the first opening 48. The medium 99 is discharged from the drying oven 47 through the second opening 49. The first opening 48 is located on the surface of the drying oven 47 opposite to the printing device 12. The second opening 49 is located on the opposite surface of the drying oven 47 to the printing device 12. For example, the second opening 49 is located on the surface of the drying oven 47 adjacent to the winding unit 41.

[0057] The drying oven 47 has one or more air inlets. In one example, the drying oven 47 has a first air inlet 50 and a second air inlet 51. An air inlet is an opening that allows air to flow from outside the drying oven 47 into the drying oven 47. The drying oven 47 receives air through the air inlets. The air inlets can be shared with a passageway or are separate openings independent of the passageway. In one example, the first air inlet 50 is shared with a first passageway 48. The second air inlet 51 is shared with a second passageway 49.

[0058] The drying oven 47 has one or more exhaust ports 52. In one example, the drying oven 47 has only one exhaust port 52. The exhaust port 52 is an opening for air to flow out of the drying oven 47. The drying oven 47 exhausts air through the exhaust port 52. The exhaust port 52 is an opening different from the through port and the air inlet. The exhaust port 52 is, for example, an opening on the upper surface of the drying oven 47.

[0059] The drying unit 46 has a heating section 53. The heating section 53 is housed in a drying oven 47. The heating section 53 is configured to heat the medium 99. The heating section 53 heats the medium 99 within the drying oven 47. The heating section 53 is positioned opposite the medium 99. By heating the medium 99 with the heating section 53, the liquid adhering to the medium 99 evaporates. As a result, the medium 99 is dried. Consequently, an image is fixed onto the medium 99.

[0060] The heating section 53 has one or more heating elements 54. In one example, the heating section 53 has four heating elements 54. The heating elements 54 are arranged opposite to the medium 99. The heating elements 54 are arranged opposite to the printed surface of the medium 99. In one example, the heating elements 54 are arranged opposite to the upper surface of the medium 99. The four heating elements 54 are arranged in the conveying direction D1. The four heating elements 54 are arranged along the medium 99 extending in the drying oven 47. The heating elements 54 are not limited to infrared heaters; for example, they can also be blowers that blow hot air onto the medium 99.

[0061] The heating element 54 is configured to heat the medium 99. The heating element 54 is, for example, an infrared heater. The heating element 54 heats the medium 99 by irradiating it with infrared light. The heating element 54 irradiates infrared light onto the printed surface of the medium 99.

[0062] The heating element 54 is configured to heat the medium 99 across its width. In one example, the heating element 54 extends in the width direction D2. The width direction D2 is a direction different from the conveying direction D1. The width direction D2 is a direction different from the vertical direction. The width direction D2 is a direction that serves as an indicator of the width of the medium 99. By extending in the width direction D2, the heating element 54 irradiates infrared rays across the width of the medium 99. The heating element 54 is configured, for example, to be larger in the width direction D2 compared to the entire width of the medium 99. More specifically, the heating element 54 is configured to be elongated compared to the maximum width of the medium 99 that the drying device 13 can accommodate.

[0063] The heating element 53 may also have more than one reflector 55. In one example, the heating element 53 has the same number of reflectors 55 as the heating element 54. The heating element 53 has four reflectors 55. The reflectors 55 are arranged in such a way that they reflect the infrared light generated by the heating element 54 toward the medium 99. The reflectors 55 are located, for example, directly above the heating element 54.

[0064] The drying unit 46 has an exhaust section 56. The exhaust section 56 is connected to the drying oven 47. The exhaust section 56 is configured to exhaust air from the drying oven 47. Specifically, the exhaust section 56 exhausts air from the drying oven 47 through an exhaust port 52.

[0065] The exhaust section 56 has a duct 57. The duct 57 extends from the drying oven 47. The duct 57 is mounted on the drying oven 47. The duct 57 is connected to the drying oven 47 in a manner that communicates with the interior of the drying oven 47 through the exhaust port 52. The duct 57 communicates with both the interior and exterior of the drying oven 47.

[0066] Pipe 57 can also be connected to exhaust mechanism 16. In one example, pipe 57 is connected to exhaust pipe 17. Exhaust section 56 exhausts air from drying oven 47 toward exhaust mechanism 16. Exhaust section 56 exhausts air from inside drying oven 47 to outside of plant 15 via exhaust mechanism 16. Pipe 57 can also extend outside of plant 15.

[0067] The exhaust section 56 includes a fan 58. The fan 58 is configured to exhaust air from inside the drying oven 47 toward the outside of the drying oven 47 via a duct 57. The fan 58 supplies air from inside the drying oven 47 toward the outside of the drying oven 47. The fan 58 is installed in the duct 57. The fan 58 is located within the duct 57. In one example, the fan 58 exhausts air from the drying oven 47 toward the exhaust mechanism 16. The fan 58 is driven, for example, to rotate at a predetermined speed. After being delivered to the fan 58, the air is exhausted to the outside of the plant 15 via the exhaust mechanism 16.

[0068] The drying unit 46 may also have more than one drying guide roller. In one example, the drying unit 46 has a first drying guide roller 59 and a second drying guide roller 60. The drying guide roller is configured in the same way as the printing guide roller to guide the medium 99. The drying guide roller guides the medium 99 by contacting it. The drying guide roller guides the medium 99 from the printing device 12 to the drying device 13, or from the drying unit 46 to the winding unit 41.

[0069] The drying guide rollers can be located either inside or outside the drying oven 47. In one example, the first drying guide roller 59 and the second drying guide roller 60 are located outside the drying oven 47. The first drying guide roller 59 guides the medium 99, for example, by supplying the medium 99 from outside the drying oven 47 into the drying oven 47. In one example, the first drying guide roller 59 guides the medium 99 delivered from the printing device 12 into the drying oven 47. The first drying guide roller 59 guides the medium 99 into the drying oven 47 through the first through-port 48. The second drying guide roller 60 guides the medium 99, for example, by discharging the medium 99 from inside the drying oven 47 to outside the drying oven 47. In detail, the second drying guide roller 60 guides the dried medium 99 out of the drying oven 47. The second drying guide roller 60 guides the medium 99 out of the drying oven 47 through the second through-port 49.

[0070] The drying unit 46 may also include a detection unit 61. The detection unit 61 is configured to detect the state of the drying apparatus 13. Specifically, the detection unit 61 is configured to detect the state inside the drying oven 47. The detection unit 61 is located, for example, inside the drying oven 47. The detection unit 61 may also be located inside the pipe 57. The detection unit 61 includes, for example, a sensor. The detection unit 61 can detect both the air velocity and the air volume inside the drying oven 47. The detection unit 61 can detect both the temperature and the humidity inside the drying oven 47. The detection unit 61 can also detect the vapor composition inside the drying oven 47. Specifically, the detection unit 61 can also detect the composition of the solvent evaporating from the liquid. For example, if the liquid contains glycerol and water in the solvent, the detection unit 61 can also detect glycerol and water.

[0071] The drying unit 46 has a control unit 62. The control unit 62 controls the drying unit 46. Specifically, the control unit 62 controls the heating unit 53 and the exhaust unit 56. In addition to the drying unit 46, the control unit 62 can also control the winding unit 41. For example, the control unit 62 can also control the winding unit 43. Like the printing control unit 38, the control unit 62 can be configured as a processor, as hardware circuitry, or as a circuitry including a combination of these.

[0072] The control unit 62 can also be connected to the detection unit 61. The control unit 62 can also determine whether the medium 99 has been properly dried based on the detection results of the detection unit 61. For example, the control unit 62 can determine that the medium 99 is properly dried if the air velocity inside the drying oven 47 is within a predetermined range; the control unit 62 can determine that the medium 99 is properly dried if the air volume inside the drying oven 47 is within a predetermined range; the control unit 62 can determine that the medium 99 is properly dried if the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is within a predetermined range; the control unit 62 can determine that the medium 99 is properly dried if the humidity inside the drying oven 47 is within a predetermined range; and the control unit 62 can determine that the medium 99 is properly dried if the vapor composition inside the drying oven 47 is at a predetermined ratio.

[0073] The control unit 62 can also communicate with the printing apparatus 12. Specifically, the control unit 62 communicates with the printing control unit 38. The control unit 62 sends various signals to the printing control unit 38. The control unit 62 notifies the printing apparatus 13 of its status by sending signals to the printing control unit 38. The control unit 62 receives various signals from the printing control unit 38. By receiving signals from the printing control unit 38, the control unit 62 can monitor the status of the printing apparatus 12. For example, the control unit 62 can also receive printing information from the printing control unit 38. This printing information includes the printing speed implemented by the printing unit 27, the transport speed implemented by the transport unit 32, etc. The printing information may also include information indicating the type of liquid used in printing, information indicating the type of medium 99, etc.

[0074] In the drying apparatus 13, the medium 99 is heated by the heating unit 53, causing steam to be trapped inside the drying oven 47. Air is discharged from the drying oven 47 along with the steam via the exhaust unit 56, or air is introduced into the drying oven 47 via the air inlet, thereby properly drying the medium 99. For example, by exhausting air from the drying oven 47 via the exhaust unit 56, or by introducing air into the drying oven 47 via the air inlet, an environment suitable for drying the medium 99 is maintained inside the drying oven 47. By exhausting air from the drying oven 47 via the exhaust unit 56, or by introducing air into the drying oven 47 via the air inlet, a temperature suitable for drying the medium 99 is maintained inside the drying oven 47.

[0075] When the exhaust volume from the drying oven 47 is excessive or insufficient, there is a possibility that the medium 99 may not be properly dried. For example, when the exhaust volume is excessive, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is prone to drop. In this case, there is a possibility that the drying of the medium 99 will become insufficient. When the exhaust volume is insufficient, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is prone to rise. In this case, there is a possibility that the medium 99 will be overheated. Furthermore, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, there is a possibility that steam may leak from the drying oven 47 into the plant 15.

[0076] The exhaust volume from the drying oven 47 is affected by the driving force of the fan 58. When the driving force of the fan 58 increases, the exhaust volume tends to increase. When the driving force of the fan 58 decreases, the exhaust volume tends to decrease.

[0077] The exhaust volume from the drying oven 47 is sometimes affected by the environment in which the drying device 13 is located. For example, when the exhaust section 56 is connected to the exhaust mechanism 16, the exhaust volume is sometimes affected by the exhaust mechanism 16. If the exhaust performance of the exhaust mechanism 16 is low, there is a possibility of insufficient exhaust volume. This is because the exhaust mechanism 16 becomes a bottleneck. If the exhaust performance of the exhaust mechanism 16 is high, there is a possibility of excessive exhaust volume. Therefore, when the exhaust section 56 is connected to the exhaust mechanism 16, it is sometimes difficult to adjust the exhaust volume according to the drive amount of the fan 58. Furthermore, when the exhaust section 56 exhausts directly to the outside of the factory 15, the exhaust volume is sometimes affected by the environment outside the factory 15. For example, depending on the weather, there is a possibility of excessive or insufficient exhaust volume. Therefore, even when the exhaust section 56 exhausts directly to the outside of the factory 15, it is sometimes difficult to adjust the exhaust volume according to the drive amount of the fan 58.

[0078] The exhaust volume from the drying oven 47 is affected by the ease of air intake through the inlet. Specifically, the ease with which air flows into the drying oven 47 through the inlet affects the exhaust volume. When air is easily drawn in through the inlet, the intake volume tends to be larger. When the intake volume is larger, the exhaust volume tends to be larger. When air is difficult to draw in through the inlet, the intake volume tends to be smaller. When the intake volume is smaller, the exhaust volume tends to be smaller.

[0079] The exhaust volume from the drying oven 47 is affected by the ease of exhaust from the exhaust port 52. Specifically, the ease with which air is exhausted from the drying oven 47 through the exhaust port 52 affects the exhaust volume. The easier it is to exhaust from the exhaust port 52, the greater the exhaust volume. The less easy it is to exhaust from the exhaust port 52, the smaller the exhaust volume.

[0080] The drying device 13 regulates the environment inside the drying oven 47 by adjusting the ease of air intake, the ease of air exhaust, or both. That is, the drying device 13 regulates the environment inside the drying oven 47 by adjusting at least one of the air intake and exhaust volume. Alternatively, the drying device 13 regulates the ease of airflow within itself by adjusting the air intake or exhaust volume. By adjusting the air intake or exhaust volume, the drying device 13 appropriately dries the medium 99.

[0081] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the drying unit 46 has a movable part 63. The movable part 63 is configured to move within the drying unit 46. By moving, the movable part 63 adjusts at least one of the intake air volume from the air inlet and the exhaust air volume from the drying oven 47. The movable part 63 can also adjust the intake air volume by moving. The movable part 63 can also adjust the exhaust air volume by moving. The movable part 63 can also adjust both the intake and exhaust air volumes by moving. In other words, the movable part 63 adjusts the ease of airflow within the drying oven 47 by moving. The drying unit 46 adjusts at least one of the intake and exhaust air volumes via the movable part 63, thereby appropriately drying the medium 99.

[0082] The movable part 63 can also be configured to vary the flow resistance of air flowing in from the air inlet. The movable part 63 can also vary the flow resistance of air flowing in from the air inlet by moving. When the flow resistance is large, air is less likely to enter from the air inlet. In this case, the intake volume decreases. When the flow resistance is small, air is more likely to enter from the air inlet. In this case, the intake volume increases. In this way, the movable part 63 can also adjust the intake volume.

[0083] The movable part 63 can also be configured to vary the flow resistance of the air discharged from the drying oven 47. The movable part 63 can also vary the flow resistance of the air discharged from the drying oven 47 by moving. When the flow resistance increases, it is difficult to discharge air from the exhaust port 52. In this case, the discharge volume decreases. When the flow resistance decreases, it is easy to discharge air from the exhaust port 52. In this case, the discharge volume increases. In this way, the movable part 63 can also adjust the discharge volume.

[0084] The movable part 63 moves to ensure that the medium 99 is properly dried in the drying oven 47. For example, the movable part 63 moves to create a suitable environment inside the drying oven 47 when the medium 99 is being dried. When the exhaust volume from the drying oven 47 is insufficient, the movable part 63 moves to increase the intake or exhaust volume. Insufficient exhaust volume can easily cause the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to rise. Therefore, by moving the movable part 63 to increase the intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to rise. When the exhaust volume becomes excessive, the movable part 63 moves to decrease the intake or exhaust volume. Excessive exhaust volume can easily cause the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to drop. Therefore, by moving the movable part 63 to decrease the intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to drop.

[0085] The movable part 63 can also be controlled by the control unit 62. The movable part 63 can also be controlled by the control unit 62 in an automatic manner. For example, the movable part 63 can be controlled by the control unit 62 to properly dry the medium 99. The movable part 63 can also be configured to be manually moved by a user. For example, the movable part 63 can also be manually moved to properly dry the medium 99.

[0086] The movable part 63 can also be controlled by the control unit 62 based on the detection results of the detection unit 61. That is, the movable part 63 can also be moved automatically by the control unit 62 based on the detection results of the detection unit 61. The movable part 63 can also be moved manually by the user based on the detection results of the detection unit 61.

[0087] When the air velocity inside the drying oven 47 is high, the movable part 63 can also move by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume. When the air velocity inside the drying oven 47 is high, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is prone to drop. In particular, when the air velocity flowing along the medium 99 is high, the temperature of the medium 99 is prone to drop. Therefore, the drying of the medium 99 may become insufficient. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to drop.

[0088] When the air velocity inside the drying oven 47 is low, the movable part 63 can also move by increasing the air intake or exhaust volume. When the air velocity inside the drying oven 47 is low, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is prone to rise. In particular, when the air velocity flowing along the medium 99 is low, the temperature of the medium 99 is prone to rise. Therefore, the medium 99 is prone to overheating. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by increasing the air intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to rise.

[0089] When the airflow inside the drying oven 47 is large, the movable part 63 can also move by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume. When the airflow inside the drying oven 47 is large, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is prone to drop. In particular, when the airflow along the medium 99 is large, the temperature of the medium 99 is prone to drop. Therefore, the drying of the medium 99 may become insufficient. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to drop.

[0090] When the airflow inside the drying oven 47 is low, the movable part 63 can also move by increasing the air intake or exhaust volume. When the airflow inside the drying oven 47 is low, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is prone to rise. In particular, when the airflow along the medium 99 is low, the temperature of the medium 99 is prone to rise. Therefore, the medium 99 is prone to overheating. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by increasing the air intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to rise.

[0091] When the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is high, the movable part 63 can also move by increasing the air intake or exhaust volume. This makes it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to rise. When the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is low, the movable part 63 can also move by decreasing the air intake or exhaust volume. This makes it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to drop.

[0092] When the humidity inside the drying oven 47 is high, the movable part 63 can also move by increasing the air intake or exhaust volume. When the humidity inside the drying oven 47 is high, there is a possibility that steam may remain due to insufficient exhaust volume. Therefore, there is a possibility that the medium 99 may be overheated or that the drying of the medium 99 may stop. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by increasing the air intake or exhaust volume, the humidity inside the drying oven 47 can be reduced more easily.

[0093] When the humidity inside the drying oven 47 is low, the movable part 63 can also move by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume. When the humidity inside the drying oven 47 is low, there is a possibility that the temperature inside the drying oven 47 may drop due to excessive exhaust volume. Therefore, the drying of the medium 99 may become insufficient. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to drop.

[0094] When the pressure inside the drying oven 47 is high, the movable part 63 can also move by increasing the air intake or exhaust volume. When the pressure inside the drying oven 47 is high, there is a possibility that steam may remain due to insufficient exhaust volume. Therefore, there is a possibility that the medium 99 may be overheated or that the drying of the medium 99 may stop. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by increasing the air intake or exhaust volume, steam can be more easily discharged from the drying oven 47.

[0095] When the pressure inside the drying oven 47 is low, the movable part 63 can move by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume. When the pressure inside the drying oven 47 is low, there is a possibility that the temperature inside the drying oven 47 may drop due to excessive exhaust volume. Therefore, the drying of the medium 99 may become insufficient. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to drop.

[0096] The movable part 63 can also move by changing the intake or exhaust volume based on the vapor composition within the drying oven 47. For example, if the amount of water vapor within the drying oven 47 is large, the movable part 63 can also move by reducing the intake or exhaust volume. In a liquid containing water and glycerin, water evaporates more easily than glycerin due to their different boiling points. Therefore, if the amount of water vapor is large, there is a possibility that the evaporation of glycerin may stop. In this case, there is a possibility that the temperature inside the drying oven 47 may drop excessively. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by reducing the intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to drop.

[0097] The movable part 63 can also be controlled by the control unit 62 based on the printing information. That is, the movable part 63 can also be moved automatically by the control unit 62 based on the printing information. The movable part 63 can also be moved manually by the user based on the printing information.

[0098] The movable part 63 can also move by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume when the printing speed and conveying speed are high. At high printing speeds and conveying speeds, the heating time of the medium 99 tends to be shorter. Therefore, the drying of the medium 99 may become insufficient. To address this, by moving the movable part 63 by reducing the air intake or exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 can be more easily increased. This, in turn, promotes the drying of the medium 99.

[0099] The movable part 63 may also have more than one cover 64. In one example, the movable part 63 has one cover 64. The cover 64 is mounted on the drying oven 47. The cover 64 changes the flow area of ​​the air inlet by moving. The flow area of ​​the air inlet is the effective area of ​​the air inlet through which air can pass. When the flow area of ​​the air inlet decreases, the flow resistance for the air flowing in from the air inlet increases. As a result, the intake volume tends to decrease. When the flow area of ​​the air inlet increases, the flow resistance for the air flowing in from the air inlet decreases. As a result, the intake volume tends to increase.

[0100] The cover 64 is mounted in a manner that overlaps with the first air inlet 50. The cover 64 moves in a manner that changes the opening area of ​​the first air inlet 50. The cover 64 can also be mounted in a manner that overlaps with the second air inlet 51. The cover 64 can also move in a manner that changes the opening area of ​​the second air inlet 51. The movable part 63 may also have a cover 64 that changes the opening area of ​​the first air inlet 50 and a cover 64 that changes the opening area of ​​the second air inlet 51. In this case, the two covers 64 can be configured to move as a single unit or to move independently.

[0101] The cover 64 is configured to slide in the vertical direction. This changes the flow area of ​​the air inlet. In one example, by moving the cover 64 downwards, the flow area of ​​the first air inlet 50 decreases, thus reducing the intake volume. By moving the cover 64 upwards, the flow area of ​​the first air inlet 50 increases, thus increasing the intake volume.

[0102] When the exhaust volume is insufficient, the shroud 64 moves, thereby increasing the flow area of ​​the air inlet. This makes it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the shroud 64 moves, thereby decreasing the flow area of ​​the air inlet. This makes it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to drop.

[0103] The role and effects of the embodiments

[0104] Next, the function and effects of the above embodiments will be explained.

[0105] (1) The movable part 63 adjusts at least one of the air intake volume from the air inlet and the air exhaust volume from the drying oven 47 by moving. When the air intake volume or the exhaust volume changes, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 will rise or fall. For example, when the air intake volume increases, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 becomes easier to decrease. When the air intake volume decreases, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 becomes easier to rise. When the exhaust volume increases, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 becomes easier to decrease. When the exhaust volume decreases, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 becomes easier to rise. According to the above structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, by moving the movable part 63 to increase the air intake volume or the exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, by moving the movable part 63 to decrease the air intake volume or the exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 is less likely to fall. Thus, the drying device 13 can properly dry the medium 99.

[0106] (2) The movable part 63 changes the flow resistance of the air flowing in from the air inlet by moving. When the flow resistance increases due to the movement of the movable part 63, the air intake volume tends to decrease. When the flow resistance decreases due to the movement of the movable part 63, the air intake volume tends to increase. According to the above structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the movable part 63 moves to reduce the flow resistance, thereby making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the movable part 63 moves to increase the flow resistance, thereby making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to drop.

[0107] (3) The shroud 64 changes the flow area of ​​the air inlet by moving. When the flow area of ​​the air inlet decreases, air becomes less likely to flow into the drying oven 47. That is, the flow resistance increases, making it easier for the air intake to decrease. When the flow area of ​​the air inlet increases, air easily flows into the drying oven 47. That is, the flow resistance decreases, making it easier for the air intake to increase. According to the above structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the shroud 64 moves to increase the flow area of ​​the air inlet, making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the shroud 64 moves to decrease the flow area of ​​the air inlet, making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to drop.

[0108] (4) The cover 64 slides vertically, thereby changing the flow area of ​​the air inlet. Based on the above structure, the flow area of ​​the air inlet can be easily changed. Therefore, the intake volume is adjusted.

[0109] (5) The control unit 62 controls the movable part 63 based on the detection results of the detection unit 61. According to the above structure, the movable part 63 moves appropriately based on the state of the drying device 13.

[0110] (6) The control unit 62 controls the movable part 63 based on the printing information. According to the above structure, the movable part 63 moves appropriately based on the printing information.

[0111] Change Example

[0112] The above embodiments can be implemented by modification as follows. The above embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other within a technically consistent scope.

[0113] ·like Figure 4As shown, the movable part 63 may also have a rectifier plate 65. The rectifier plate 65 is located inside the drying oven 47. The rectifier plate 65 is arranged opposite to the medium 99. The rectifier plate 65 extends, for example, along the heating part 53. In one example, the rectifier plate 65 extends above the heating part 53. Therefore, the heating part 53 is located between the medium 99 and the rectifier plate 65.

[0114] The rectifier 65 guides the air in such a way that the air flowing in from the intake port flows along the medium 99. In one example, the rectifier 65 guides the air in such a way that the air flowing in from the second intake port 51 flows along the medium 99. The rectifier 65 may also guide the air in such a way that the air flowing in from the first intake port 50 flows along the medium 99.

[0115] The rectifier plate 65 can also define the guide channel 66 within the drying oven 47. The guide channel 66 is a flow channel for air flowing in from the air inlet. The guide channel 66 extends from the air inlet. In one example, the guide channel 66 extends from the second air inlet 51. The heating element 53 is located on the guide channel 66. The guide channel 66 is a flow channel that guides the air flowing in from the air inlet along the medium 99. The air flows through the guide channel 66, thereby passing between the medium 99 and the heating element 53.

[0116] The rectifier plate 65 has a fixing portion 67. The fixing portion 67 is the portion that is fixed relative to the drying oven 47. The fixing portion 67 is the portion that extends from the air inlet. In one example, the fixing portion 67 extends linearly from the second air inlet 51. The fixing portion 67 extends parallel to the medium 99.

[0117] The rectifier plate 65 has a movable portion 68. The movable portion 68 is the portion that moves relative to the fixed portion 67. The movable portion 68 is mounted in a manner that allows it to move relative to the fixed portion 67. In one example, the movable portion 68 is mounted on the fixed portion 67 in a manner that allows it to rotate around an end of the fixed portion 67 as a pivot. The movable portion 68 moves in a manner that extends the guide channel 66. For example, the movable portion 68 moves between a position where the fixed portion 67 is extended and a position where it is bent relative to the fixed portion 67. Figure 4 In the diagram, the position indicated by the double-dotted line is where the fixed portion 67 is extended. The movable portion 68 is positioned at the extended position of the fixed portion 67, thereby extending the guide channel 66.

[0118] The rectifier plate 65 adjusts at least one of the airflow volume and air velocity of the air flowing along the medium 99 within the drying oven 47 by moving. In this modified example, the rectifier plate 65 changes the length of the guide channel 66 by moving. By changing the length of the guide channel 66, the rectifier plate 65 changes the flow velocity of the air flowing along the medium 99. When the movable part 68 is in a position that extends the fixed part 67, the guide channel 66 becomes longer. When the guide channel 66 becomes longer, the air flowing in from the air inlet easily comes into contact with the medium 99. This is because the air flowing in from the air inlet does not easily diffuse within the drying oven 47. Therefore, the amount of air in contact with the medium 99 increases. Furthermore, the flow velocity of the air flowing along the medium 99 increases. As a result, the temperature of the medium 99 becomes easier to decrease. When the movable part 68 is displaced to a position that bends relative to the fixed part 67, the guide channel 66 becomes shorter. When the guide channel 66 becomes shorter, the air flowing in from the air inlet is less likely to come into contact with the medium 99. Therefore, the amount of air in contact with the medium 99 decreases. Furthermore, the air velocity flowing along the medium 99 decreases. Consequently, the temperature of the medium 99 tends to rise more easily.

[0119] The rectifier plate 65 changes the flow resistance of the air discharged from the drying oven 47 by moving. In this modified example, the rectifier plate 65 changes the flow resistance of the air discharged from the drying oven 47 by changing the length of the guide channel 66. When the guide channel 66 is longer, the flow resistance of the discharged air increases because the air does not diffuse easily within the drying oven 47. As a result, the airflow and velocity along the medium 99 tend to increase. In this case, the temperature of the medium 99 is less likely to rise. When the guide channel 66 is shorter, the air diffuses easily within the drying oven 47, thus the flow resistance of the discharged air decreases. As a result, the airflow and velocity along the medium 99 tend to decrease. In this case, the temperature of the medium 99 is less likely to decrease.

[0120] When the exhaust volume is insufficient, the airflow and velocity along the medium 99 tend to decrease, causing the temperature of the medium 99 to rise easily. To address this, the rectifier plate 65 moves to lengthen the guide channel 66. Thus, even with insufficient exhaust volume, the decrease in airflow and velocity along the medium 99 is suppressed, making it less likely for the temperature of the medium 99 to rise. That is, the possibility of the medium 99 being overheated is reduced. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the airflow and velocity along the medium 99 tend to increase, causing the temperature of the medium 99 to drop easily. To address this, the rectifier plate 65 moves to shorten the guide channel 66. Thus, even with excessive exhaust volume, the increase in airflow and velocity along the medium 99 is suppressed, making it less likely for the temperature of the medium 99 to drop. That is, the possibility of insufficient drying of the medium 99 is reduced.

[0121] As explained in this modified example, the movable part 63 can also adjust at least one of the airflow and velocity of the air flowing along the medium 99 within the drying oven 47 by means of movement. The rectifier plate 65 is not limited to defining the guide channel 66; it can be any structure that guides air to flow along the medium 99. The rectifier plate 65 can be any structure that changes at least one of the airflow and velocity of the air flowing along the medium 99 by means of movement. With this structure, the medium 99 can be properly dried even without changing the intake and exhaust volumes through the shroud 64.

[0122] ·like Figure 5 As shown, the air inlet can also be an opening different from the passage port. The air inlet opens independently of the passage port. Specifically, the first air inlet 50 is an opening different from the first passage port 48. The second air inlet 51 can also be an opening different from the second passage port 49. In this variation, the first air inlet 50 is composed of a plurality of holes that open higher than the first passage port 48. Since the air inlet is an opening different from the passage port, the passage port can open in a shape that matches the medium 99. For example, the passage port can open in a slit shape.

[0123] ·like Figure 5As shown, the cover 64 can also be configured to overlap with an air inlet that opens independently of the passage 48. In this variation, the cover 64 is provided to overlap with a first air inlet 50 that opens independently of the first passage 48. The cover 64 can, for example, slide in the vertical direction, thereby changing the flow area of ​​the first air inlet 50. In this case, the possibility of the cover 64 coming into contact with the medium 99 is reduced. The cover 64 can also be provided in a way that changes the flow area of ​​a second air inlet 51 that opens independently of the second passage 49. The movable part 63 can also have a cover 64 that changes the flow area of ​​the first air inlet 50 and a cover 64 that changes the flow area of ​​the second air inlet 51.

[0124] like Figure 6 As shown, the cover 64 can also be installed in a manner that allows it to open and close relative to the drying oven 47. By opening and closing the cover 64, the flow area of ​​the air inlet changes. The cover 64 can open and close, for example, by rotating around its upper end as an axis. In this modified example, the cover 64 is installed on the drying oven 47 in a manner that overlaps with the first air inlet 50. The flow area of ​​the first air inlet 50 changes by opening and closing the cover 64. The flow area of ​​the second air inlet 51 can also change by opening and closing the cover 64. The movable part 63 can also have a cover 64 that changes the flow area of ​​the first air inlet 50 by opening and closing, and a cover 64 that changes the flow area of ​​the second air inlet 51 by opening and closing.

[0125] ·like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the movable part 63 may also have more than one cylindrical component 69. The cylindrical component 69 is a component that is embedded in the air inlet. The cylindrical component 69 is mounted on the drying oven 47 by being embedded in the air inlet. In this variation, the cylindrical component 69 is mounted by being embedded in the first air inlet 50. The cylindrical component 69 may also be mounted by being embedded in the second air inlet 51. The movable part 63 may also have a cylindrical component 69 mounted in the first air inlet 50 and a cylindrical component 69 mounted in the second air inlet 51.

[0126] An inlet 70 is provided on the cylindrical component 69. The inlet 70 is an opening for air to flow from outside the drying oven 47 into the drying oven 47. Air flows into the drying oven 47 through the inlet 70. In this modified example, since the first air inlet 50 is an opening shared with the first through port 48, the medium 99 passes through the inlet 70.

[0127] The cylindrical component 69 is configured to move within the air inlet. The cylindrical component 69 is configured to move within the air inlet in the conveying direction D1 and the opposite direction. By moving the cylindrical component 69, the volume of the cylindrical component 69 contained within the air inlet changes.

[0128] The cylindrical component 69 moves, thereby varying its protrusion relative to the drying furnace 47. This variation in protrusion changes the flow resistance of the air drawn in from the inlet. When the protrusion of the cylindrical component 69 relative to the drying furnace 47 is small, air flows into the drying furnace 47 through the inlet 70. In this case, the air is guided into the drying furnace 47 by the inner surface of the cylindrical component 69 forming the inlet 70. When the protrusion of the cylindrical component 69 relative to the drying furnace 47 is large, air flows into the drying furnace 47 through both the inlet 70 and the inlet. In this case, the air is guided into the drying furnace 47 by both the inner surface of the cylindrical component 69 forming the inlet 70 and the inner surface of the drying furnace 47 forming the inlet. That is, when the protrusion of the cylindrical component 69 relative to the drying furnace 47 is large, the length of the flow path that the air travels from outside the drying furnace 47 into the drying furnace 47 increases. Therefore, when the protrusion of the cylindrical component 69 relative to the drying furnace 47 is large, the flow resistance of the air flowing into the drying furnace 47 increases. Consequently, when the cylindrical component 69 protrudes from the drying furnace 47, the air intake volume tends to decrease. When the protrusion of the cylindrical component 69 relative to the drying furnace 47 is small, the flow resistance decreases, and therefore the air intake volume tends to increase. Thus, the air intake volume is adjusted by the protrusion of the cylindrical component 69.

[0129] When the exhaust volume is insufficient, the cylinder component 69 moves to reduce its protrusion relative to the drying oven 47. This makes it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the cylinder component 69 moves to increase its protrusion relative to the drying oven 47. This makes it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven 47 to drop.

[0130] ·like Figure 9 As shown, the cover 64 can also be configured to slide in the width direction D2. The cover 64 is provided in a manner that overlaps with the air inlet. The flow area of ​​the air inlet changes by sliding the cover 64. The movable part 63 can also have multiple covers 64. In this variation, the movable part 63 has two covers 64 that overlap with the first air inlet 50. The two covers 64 can also be configured to be linked together. The two covers 64 can also move in a manner that brings them closer together or separates them from each other in the width direction D2. By moving the two covers 64 closer together, the flow area of ​​the air inlet is reduced. The two covers 64 can reduce the width of the air inlet by conforming to the width of the medium 99. The cover 64 can also be provided in a manner that overlaps with the second air inlet 51. The movable part 63 can also have one or more covers 64 that overlap with the first air inlet 50 and one or more covers 64 that overlap with the second air inlet 51.

[0131] ·like Figure 10 As shown, the movable part 63 may also have a baffle member 71. The baffle member 71 is installed in the pipe 57. In this variation, the baffle member 71 is located in the pipe 57 between the exhaust port 52 and the fan 58. The baffle member 71 may also be located in the pipe 57 between the fan 58 and the exhaust mechanism 16.

[0132] The baffle member 71 moves, thereby changing the flow area of ​​the pipe 57. By changing the flow area of ​​the pipe 57, the baffle member 71 changes the flow resistance to the air discharged from the exhaust port 52. By changing the flow area of ​​the pipe 57, the baffle member 71 changes the ease of exhaust. The baffle member 71 can also be configured to open and close the pipe 57.

[0133] When the exhaust volume is insufficient, the baffle component 71 increases the flow area of ​​the pipe 57. This makes it easier for the exhaust volume to increase. Consequently, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 becomes less likely to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the baffle component 71 decreases the flow area of ​​the pipe 57. This makes it easier for the exhaust volume to decrease. Consequently, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 becomes less likely to decrease.

[0134] ·like Figure 11 As shown, the duct 57 may also have a main body 72. The main body 72 is the portion extending from the drying oven 47. The main body 72 is connected to the drying oven 47. The main body 72 communicates with the exhaust port 52. The main body 72 is connected to the exhaust mechanism 16. The fan 58 is located in the main body 72.

[0135] Pipe 57 may also have more than one branch. In this variation, pipe 57 has two branch sections. Specifically, pipe 57 has a first branch section 73 and a second branch section 74. The branch section is a portion that branches off from the main body section 72. For example, the branch section branches off from between the fan 58 and the exhaust mechanism 16 in the main body section 72. That is, the fan 58 is located between the branch section and the drying oven 47 in the main body section 72. The branch section extends within the plant 15. In one example, the branch section bends in a manner that extends downward from the main body section 72 and then upward.

[0136] The branch sections have openings. Specifically, the first branch section 73 has a first branch opening 75. The second branch section 74 has a second branch opening 76. The branch openings are for air to enter or exit. The branch openings are connected to the interior of the plant 15. The branch sections allow air to enter or exit through the branch openings.

[0137] Based on the difference between the airflow from fan 58 and exhaust fan 18, duct 57 allows air to enter the main body 72 via a branch section or exit the main body 72 via a branch section. Typically, it is preferable that the airflow from exhaust fan 18 is larger than that from fan 58. In this case, exhaust from drying unit 13 to outside the plant 15 becomes smooth.

[0138] When the airflow rate of exhaust fan 18 is smaller than that of fan 58, there is a possibility that the exhaust from exhaust section 56 to exhaust mechanism 16 may stagnate. Due to this stagnation, the exhaust volume from drying oven 47 may be insufficient. In contrast, in this modified example, when the airflow rate of exhaust fan 18 is smaller than that of fan 58, i.e., when the exhaust volume may be insufficient, air flows from main section 72 to branch section. That is, exhaust section 56 exhausts air from the branch port. Fan 58 directs the air exhausted from drying oven 47 to exhaust mechanism 16 and branch section. This reduces the possibility of insufficient exhaust volume.

[0139] If the airflow of exhaust fan 18 is excessive relative to the airflow of fan 58, there is a possibility of excessive exhaust volume from the drying oven 47. To address this, in this modified example, when the airflow of exhaust fan 18 is excessive relative to the airflow of fan 58, i.e., when there is a possibility of excessive exhaust volume, air flows from the branch section to the main body section 72. That is, exhaust section 56 receives air from the branch port. Fan 58 sends the air exhausted from the drying oven 47 together with the air flowing into the main body section 72 through the branch section to the exhaust mechanism 16. This reduces the possibility of excessive exhaust volume.

[0140] ·like Figure 11 As shown, the branch section may also have a condensate trap section. Specifically, the first branch section 73 may also have a first condensate trap section 77. The second branch section 74 may also have a second condensate trap section 78. The condensate trap section is a liquid-receiving portion. The condensate trap section is a downwardly convex portion of the branch section. Exhaust gas flowing in the main body section 72 may sometimes be cooled as it flows through the branch section. In this case, the vapor liquefies in the branch section. The liquefied liquid accumulates in the condensate trap section. By accumulating the liquefied liquid through the condensate trap section, the amount of vapor discharged through the branch outlet is reduced. If the branch section does not have a condensate trap section, there is a possibility that vapor may be directly discharged into the plant 15. In addition, if the branch section does not have a condensate trap section, there is a possibility that the liquefied liquid may drip from the branch outlet or flow into the main body section 72.

[0141] ·like Figure 11As shown, the movable part 63 may also have more than one opening and closing member. In this variation, the movable part 63 has two opening and closing members. Specifically, the movable part 63 has a first opening and closing member 79 and a second opening and closing member 80. The opening and closing members are located in the branch portions. The first opening and closing member 79 is located in the first branch portion 73. The second opening and closing member 80 is located in the second branch portion 74.

[0142] The opening and closing components are configured to open and close the branch portions. The first opening and closing component 79 is configured to open and close the first branch portion 73. The second opening and closing component 80 is configured to open and close the second branch portion 74. The first opening and closing component 79 and the second opening and closing component 80 can move in a mutually linked manner or move independently. The opening and closing components can also be configured to change the flow channel area of ​​the branch portions.

[0143] The opening and closing mechanism regulates the exhaust volume by opening and closing the branch section. When the opening and closing mechanism opens and closes the branch section, the flow resistance of the air discharged from the exhaust port 52 changes. When the flow resistance changes, the ease of exhaust changes. Thus, the opening and closing mechanism regulates the exhaust volume.

[0144] The opening and closing mechanism opens or closes the branch section based on the difference between the air volume delivered by fan 58 and the air volume delivered by exhaust fan 18. The opening and closing mechanism opens the branch section when the air volume delivered by exhaust fan 18 is smaller than that of fan 58, or when the air volume delivered by exhaust fan 18 is larger than that of fan 58. That is, the opening and closing mechanism opens the branch section when the exhaust volume is excessive or insufficient. By opening the branch section, the exhaust volume of air discharged from exhaust port 52 is regulated. For example, when exhaust from drying oven 47 is stagnant, i.e., when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the opening and closing mechanism opens the branch section, allowing exhaust to be discharged from the branch port. Exhaust from the branch port increases the exhaust volume from drying oven 47. When exhaust from drying oven 47 becomes excessive, i.e., when the exhaust volume is excessive, the opening and closing mechanism opens the branch section, allowing air to be introduced from the branch port. Air introduced from the branch port decreases the exhaust volume from drying oven 47.

[0145] ·like Figure 12 As shown, the drying oven 47 may also have a first part 82 and a second part 83. The second part 83 is mounted on the first part 82 in an openable / closable manner. The second part 83 is opened relative to the first part 82, thereby exposing the interior of the drying oven 47. The second part 83 can be opened and closed automatically by the control unit 62 or manually by the user.

[0146] When the conveyor section 32 stops due to blockage of the medium 99, printing errors, etc., the medium 99 will stop inside the drying oven 47. In this case, there is a possibility that the medium 99 will be overheated inside the drying oven 47. Therefore, when the conveyor section 32 stops in the drying unit 46, the second section 83 will open. As a result, the temperature inside the drying oven 47 will drop rapidly. Therefore, the possibility of the medium 99 being overheated is reduced. When the conveyor section 32 stops, the heating section 53 can also stop.

[0147] The drying apparatus 13 may also be integrally formed with the printing apparatus 12. For example, the drying apparatus 13 may also have a printing section 27. In this case, the drying oven 47 may also be designed so that the heat generated by the heating section 53 cannot reach the printing section 27.

[0148] Technical ideas

[0149] The following describes the technical concepts and effects learned from the above embodiments and modifications.

[0150] (A) The drying apparatus comprises: a drying oven into which a conveyed medium enters; a heating unit that heats the medium within the drying oven; an exhaust unit that exhausts air from the drying oven; and a movable part configured to move, having an air inlet on the drying oven for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust unit includes: a duct extending from the drying oven; and a fan that exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven via the duct. The movable part, by moving, adjusts at least one of the air intake volume from the air inlet and the air exhaust volume from the drying oven. When the air intake volume or the air exhaust volume changes, the temperature inside the drying oven rises or falls. For example, when the air intake volume increases, the temperature inside the drying oven tends to decrease. When the air intake volume decreases, the temperature inside the drying oven tends to rise. When the air exhaust volume increases, the temperature inside the drying oven tends to decrease. When the air exhaust volume decreases, the temperature inside the drying oven tends to rise. According to the above structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the movable part is moved to increase either the intake or exhaust volume, thereby preventing the temperature inside the drying oven from rising too quickly. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the movable part is moved to decrease either the intake or exhaust volume, thereby preventing the temperature inside the drying oven from dropping too low. Thus, the drying device can properly dry the medium.

[0151] (B) In the above-described drying apparatus, the movable part can also be configured to change the flow resistance of the air flowing in from the air inlet by moving. When the flow resistance increases due to the movement of the movable part, the air intake volume tends to decrease. When the flow resistance decreases due to the movement of the movable part, the air intake volume tends to increase. According to the above structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the movable part moves to reduce the flow resistance, thereby making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the movable part moves to increase the flow resistance, thereby making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to drop.

[0152] (C) In the above-described drying apparatus, the movable part may also be configured such that it has a cylindrical component mounted on the drying oven in a manner that embeds it into the air inlet. The cylindrical component has an opening for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The cylindrical component moves, thereby changing its protrusion relative to the drying oven. When the protrusion of the cylindrical component relative to the drying oven increases, the airflow path from outside the drying oven into the drying oven becomes longer, making it less likely for air to flow into the drying oven. That is, the increased flow resistance makes it easier to reduce the air intake. When the protrusion of the cylindrical component relative to the drying oven decreases, the airflow path from outside the drying oven into the drying oven becomes shorter, making it easier for air to flow into the drying oven. That is, the reduced flow resistance makes it easier to increase the air intake. According to this structure, in the event of insufficient exhaust volume, the temperature inside the drying oven is less likely to rise by moving the cylindrical component to reduce its protrusion. When there is excessive exhaust volume, the cylinder component moves in a way that increases the protrusion, making it difficult to lower the temperature inside the drying oven.

[0153] (D) In ​​the above-described drying apparatus, the movable part may also be configured such that a cover mounted on the drying oven is moved, thereby changing the flow area of ​​the air inlet. When the flow area of ​​the air inlet decreases, air becomes less likely to flow into the drying oven. That is, the flow resistance increases, making it easier for the air intake to decrease. When the flow area of ​​the air inlet increases, air becomes easier to flow into the drying oven. That is, the flow resistance decreases, making it easier for the air intake to increase. According to the above structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the movement of the cover to increase the flow area of ​​the air inlet makes it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the movement of the cover to decrease the flow area of ​​the air inlet makes it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to drop.

[0154] (E) In the above-described drying apparatus, the cover may also be configured such that the flow area of ​​the air inlet changes by sliding in the vertical direction. According to the above structure, the flow area of ​​the air inlet can easily change.

[0155] (F) In the above-described drying apparatus, the cover may also be configured such that the flow area of ​​the air inlet changes by sliding in a width direction different from the vertical direction. According to the above structure, the flow area of ​​the air inlet can easily change.

[0156] (G) In the above-described drying apparatus, the shroud can also be configured such that the flow area of ​​the air inlet changes by opening and closing the shroud. According to the above structure, the flow area of ​​the air inlet can be easily changed.

[0157] (H) In the above-described drying apparatus, the movable part may also be configured to change the flow resistance of the air discharged from the drying oven via the exhaust section by moving. When the flow resistance increases due to movement of the movable part, the exhaust volume tends to decrease. When the flow resistance decreases due to movement of the movable part, the exhaust volume tends to increase. According to the above structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the movable part moves in a way that reduces the flow resistance, thereby making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the movable part moves in a way that increases the flow resistance, thereby making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to drop.

[0158] (I) The drying apparatus includes: a drying oven into which the conveyed medium enters; a heating unit that heats the medium within the drying oven; an exhaust unit that exhausts air from the drying oven; and a movable part configured to move, having an air inlet on the drying oven for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust unit includes: a duct extending from the drying oven; and a fan that exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven via the duct. The movable part, by moving, adjusts at least one of the airflow rate and air velocity of the air flowing along the medium within the drying oven. When the airflow rate or air velocity along the medium changes, the temperature of the medium will rise or fall. For example, when the airflow rate or air velocity increases, the temperature of the medium becomes easier to decrease. When the airflow rate or air velocity decreases, the temperature of the medium becomes easier to rise. When the exhaust volume increases, the temperature inside the drying oven becomes easier to decrease. In this case, there is a possibility of insufficient drying of the medium. When the exhaust volume decreases, the temperature inside the drying oven tends to rise more easily. In this case, there is a possibility that the medium may be over-dried. According to the above structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the movable part moves to increase the airflow or air velocity, thus preventing the medium temperature from rising too high. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the movable part moves to decrease the airflow or air velocity, thus preventing the medium temperature from dropping too low. Therefore, the drying device can properly dry the medium.

[0159] (J) In the above-described drying apparatus, the heating unit may be positioned opposite the medium, and the movable unit may have a rectifier plate defining a guide channel that guides air flowing in from the air inlet to flow along the medium. The rectifier plate, by moving, adjusts at least one of the airflow rate and velocity of the air flowing along the medium within the drying oven. According to this structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the rectifier plate increases at least one of the airflow rate and velocity of the air flowing along the medium, thus preventing the medium temperature from rising too high. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the rectifier plate decreases at least one of the airflow rate and velocity of the air flowing along the medium, thus preventing the medium temperature from decreasing too low.

[0160] (K) In the above-described drying apparatus, the movable part may also be configured such that a baffle member moves to change the flow area of ​​the pipe. When the flow area of ​​the pipe increases, it becomes easier to exhaust air from the drying oven. That is, the flow resistance to the exhaust air decreases, making it easier to increase the exhaust volume. When the flow area of ​​the pipe decreases, it becomes difficult to exhaust air from the drying oven. That is, the flow resistance to the exhaust air increases, making it easier to decrease the exhaust volume. According to the above structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the baffle member moves to increase the flow area of ​​the pipe, making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to rise. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the baffle member moves to decrease the flow area of ​​the pipe, making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to drop.

[0161] (L) In the above-described drying apparatus, the pipe may also be configured such that: a main body extending from the drying oven; a branch portion branching from the main body; a fan located in the main body between the branch portion and the drying oven; a branch port for air intake and exhaust on the branch portion; and a movable part having an opening and closing member for opening and closing the branch portion. According to this structure, when the exhaust volume is insufficient, the branch portion is opened by the opening and closing member, allowing air to enter through the branch port. By allowing air to enter through the branch port, the exhaust volume from the drying oven is reduced, thus making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to decrease. When the exhaust volume is excessive, the branch portion is opened by the opening and closing member, allowing exhaust to enter through the branch port. By allowing exhaust through the branch port, the exhaust volume from the drying oven is increased, thus making it less likely for the temperature inside the drying oven to rise. In this way, by opening the branch portion, both excessive and insufficient exhaust volume are eliminated.

[0162] (M) In the above-described drying apparatus, the branch portion may also be configured such that the branch portion is a first branch portion, the pipe has a second branch portion branching off from the main body, the opening and closing member is a first opening and closing member, and the movable part has a second opening and closing member located on the second branch portion. According to the above structure, by opening the first branch portion with the first opening and closing member and opening the second branch portion with the second opening and closing member, it becomes easier to eliminate excessive or insufficient exhaust volume.

[0163] (N) In the above-described drying apparatus, the branch section may also be configured to have a condensate trap for receiving liquid. In the branch section, vapor may sometimes be cooled during flow, resulting in liquefaction. According to the above structure, the liquefied liquid is stored in the condensate trap, thereby reducing the amount of vapor discharged through the branch outlet.

[0164] (O) In the above-described drying apparatus, it is also possible to configure the drying oven to have an opening for the medium to pass through, and the air inlet to be an opening different from the opening. According to this structure, the possibility of the movable part coming into contact with the medium is reduced.

[0165] (P) The drying apparatus described above may also include: a detection unit that detects the state of the drying apparatus; and a control unit that controls the movable part based on the detection result of the detection unit. According to the above structure, the movable part can move appropriately based on the state of the drying apparatus.

[0166] (Q) The drying apparatus described above may also be configured to include a control unit that receives printing information from a printing apparatus that prints images on a medium, and controls the movable part based on the printing information. According to this configuration, the movable part can move appropriately based on the printing information.

[0167] (R) A printing apparatus includes: a printing unit that prints an image on a medium; a drying oven into which the conveyed medium enters; a heating unit that heats the medium inside the drying oven; an exhaust unit that exhausts air from the drying oven; and a movable unit configured to move, having an air inlet on the drying oven for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust unit includes: a duct extending from the drying oven; and a fan that exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable unit, by moving, adjusts at least one of the air intake volume from the air inlet and the air exhaust volume from the drying oven. According to the above structure, the same effect as the drying apparatus described above can be obtained.

[0168] (S) The printing apparatus includes: a printing unit that prints an image on a medium; a drying oven into which the conveyed medium enters; a heating unit that heats the medium inside the drying oven; an exhaust unit that exhausts air from the drying oven; and a movable unit configured to move, having an air inlet on the drying oven for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust unit includes: a duct extending from the drying oven; and a fan that exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable unit, by moving, adjusts at least one of the airflow volume and airflow speed of the air flowing along the medium inside the drying oven. According to the above structure, the same effect as the drying apparatus described above can be obtained.

[0169] Symbol Explanation

[0170] 11…Printing system; 12…Printing apparatus; 13…Drying apparatus; 14…Input section; 15…Plant; 16…Exhaust mechanism; 17…Exhaust duct; 18…Exhaust fan; 21…Unwinding unit; 22…Unwinding housing; 23…Unwinding section; 24…Unwinding shaft; 25…Printing unit; 26…Frame; 27…Printing section; 28…Head; 29…Nozzle; 30…Nozzle face; 31…Carriage; 32…Conveying section; 33…First pulley; 34…Second pulley; 35…Belt; 36…First printing guide roller; 37…Second printing guide roller; 38…Printing control section; 41…Rewinding unit; 42…Rewinding housing; 43…Rewinding section; 44…Rewinding shaft; 45…Buffer roller; 46…Drying unit; 47…Drying oven; 48…First passageway; 49…Second passageway; 50…First air inlet; 51…Second air inlet; 52…Exhaust 53…Heating section; 54…Heating component; 55…Reflector; 56…Exhaust section; 57…Pipe; 58…Fan; 59…First drying guide roller; 60…Second drying guide roller; 61…Detection section; 62…Control section; 63…Modible section; 64…Cover; 65…Rectifier plate; 66…Guide channel; 67…Fixed part; 68…Modible part; 69…Cylinder component; 70…Inlet; 71…Baffle component; 72…Main body; 73…First branch part; 74…Second branch part; 75…First branch opening; 76…Second branch opening; 77…First drainer part; 78…Second drainer part; 79…First opening and closing component; 80…Second opening and closing component; 82…First part; 83…Second part; 99…Medium; D1…Conveying direction; D2…Width direction; R1…First drum body; R2…Second drum body.

Claims

1. A drying apparatus, characterized in that, have: A drying oven into which the conveyed medium enters; A heating section that heats the medium inside the drying oven; An exhaust section that exhausts air from the drying oven; Movable parts are constructed in a manner that allows for movement. The drying oven has an air inlet for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust section has: Pipes that extend from the drying oven; A fan, which exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable part, by moving, adjusts at least one of the intake volume of air flowing in from the air inlet and the exhaust volume of air being discharged from the drying oven.

2. The drying apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The movable part moves to change the flow resistance of the airflow from the air inlet.

3. The drying apparatus as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The movable part has a cylindrical component that is mounted on the drying oven in a manner that allows it to be embedded in the air inlet. The cylindrical component has an opening for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The cylindrical component moves, thereby changing the amount of protrusion relative to the drying oven.

4. The drying apparatus as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The movable part has a cover that is mounted on the drying oven. The shroud moves, thereby changing the flow area of ​​the air inlet.

5. The drying apparatus as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The cover changes the flow area of ​​the air inlet by sliding in the vertical direction.

6. The drying apparatus as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The shroud changes the flow area of ​​the air inlet by sliding in a width direction different from the vertical direction.

7. The drying apparatus as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The shroud changes the flow area of ​​the air inlet by opening and closing.

8. The drying apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The movable part is configured to change the flow resistance of the air discharged from the drying oven via the exhaust part by means of movement.

9. A drying apparatus, characterized in that, have: A drying oven into which the conveyed medium enters; A heating section that heats the medium inside the drying oven; An exhaust section that exhausts air from the drying oven; Movable parts are constructed in a manner that allows for movement. The drying oven has an air inlet for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust section has: Pipes that extend from the drying oven; A fan, which exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable part, by moving, adjusts at least one of the airflow and air speed of the air flowing along the medium inside the drying oven.

10. The drying apparatus as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The heating element is arranged opposite to the medium. The movable part has a flow straightener that defines a guide channel, which guides the air flowing in from the air inlet in a manner that allows it to flow along the medium. The rectifier plate, by moving, regulates at least one of the airflow volume and air velocity of the air flowing along the medium within the drying oven.

11. The drying apparatus as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The movable part has a baffle component, which changes the flow area of ​​the pipe by moving.

12. The drying apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The pipeline has the following features: The main body extends from the drying oven; The branch portion branches off from the main body portion. The fan is located in the main body between the branch section and the drying oven. The branch section has an opening for air to enter and exit. The movable part has an opening and closing component for opening and closing the branch portion.

13. The drying apparatus as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The branch portion is the first branch portion. The pipe has a second branch portion that branches off from the main body portion. The opening and closing component is the first opening and closing component. The movable part has a second opening and closing component located on the second branch portion.

14. The drying apparatus as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The branch portion has a hydrophobic section for receiving liquid.

15. The drying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The drying oven has an opening for the medium to pass through. The air inlet is an opening different from the passage.

16. The drying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, have: The detection unit monitors the condition of the drying device. The control unit controls the movable part based on the detection results of the detection unit.

17. The drying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The device includes a control unit that receives printing information from a printing apparatus that prints images on a medium, and controls the movable part based on the printing information.

18. A printing apparatus, characterized in that, have: The printing department, which prints images on a medium; A drying oven into which the conveyed medium enters; A heating section that heats the medium inside the drying oven; An exhaust section that exhausts air from the drying oven; Movable parts are constructed in a manner that allows for movement. The drying oven has an air inlet for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust section has: Pipes that extend from the drying oven; A fan, which exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable part, by moving, adjusts at least one of the intake volume of air flowing in from the air inlet and the exhaust volume of air being discharged from the drying oven.

19. A printing apparatus, characterized in that, have: The printing department, which prints images on a medium; A drying oven into which the conveyed medium enters; A heating section that heats the medium inside the drying oven; An exhaust section that exhausts air from the drying oven; Movable parts are constructed in a manner that allows for movement. The drying oven has an air inlet for air to flow from outside the drying oven into the drying oven. The exhaust section has: Pipes that extend from the drying oven; A fan, which exhausts air from inside the drying oven toward the outside of the drying oven through the duct. The movable part, by moving, adjusts at least one of the airflow and air speed of the air flowing along the medium inside the drying oven.

Images