Liquid ejecting apparatus and maintenance apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides a liquid ejecting apparatus and a maintenance apparatus. The liquid ejecting apparatus includes: a head having a nozzle surface in which a plurality of nozzles that eject liquid are opened; a moisturizing cover that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle surface during standby operation of the head; a recovery cover that recovers the liquid from the head by covering the nozzle surface during a cleaning operation of the head; and the cover can move to a covering position for covering the recycling cover and an avoiding position different from the covering position. The cover is disposed at the cover position when the head is in a standby operation.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a liquid discharge apparatus and a maintenance apparatus. BACKGROUND

[0002] For example, as in Patent Literature 1, a liquid discharge apparatus provided with a head having a nozzle face on which a plurality of nozzles that discharge liquid are opened is disclosed. In such a liquid discharge apparatus, a moisturizing cover and a recovery cover are provided. The moisturizing cover is a cover that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of standby operation of the head. The recovery cover is a cover that recovers liquid from the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of cleaning operation of the head.

[0003] However, in the case where the moisturizing cover and the recovery cover are provided separately, if the opportunity for the moisturizing cover to cover the head becomes more, the opportunity for the recovery cover not to cover the head becomes more. Thereby, the opportunity for the inside of the recovery cover to be exposed to the atmosphere becomes more. Therefore, there is a possibility that liquid easily sticks to the inside of the recovery cover.

[0004] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-23362 SUMMARY

[0005] A liquid discharge apparatus that solves the above-described problem is provided with: a head having a nozzle face on which a plurality of nozzles that discharge liquid are opened; a moisturizing cover that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of standby operation of the head; a recovery cover that recovers liquid from the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of cleaning operation of the head; and a cover shield that is movable to a shield cover position that covers the recovery cover and a retreat position that is different from the shield cover position, the cover shield being disposed at the shield cover position at the time of the standby operation of the head.

[0006] A maintenance apparatus that solves the above-described problem performs maintenance of a head having a nozzle face on which a plurality of nozzles that discharge liquid are opened, the maintenance apparatus being provided with: a moisturizing cover that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of standby operation of the head; a recovery cover that recovers liquid from the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of cleaning operation of the head; and a cover shield that is movable to a shield cover position that covers the recovery cover and a retreat position that is different from the shield cover position, the cover shield being disposed at the shield cover position at the time of the standby operation of the head. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing a liquid discharge apparatus of a first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a first cleaning section of a first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3 FIG. 2 is a front view showing the first cleaning section of the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 4 FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the first cleaning section of the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a front view showing the first cleaning section of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the first cleaning section of the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7 FIG. 6 is a front view showing the first cleaning section of the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the first cleaning section of the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9 FIG. 8 is a front view showing the first cleaning section of the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 10 FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing a first cleaning section of a second embodiment.

[0017] Figure 11 FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a first cleaning section of a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] First Embodiment

[0019] One embodiment of a liquid discharge apparatus and a maintenance device will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, a direction intersecting the vertical direction Z is set as the scanning direction X, and a direction intersecting the vertical direction Z and the scanning direction X is set as the intersecting direction Y. One of the scanning directions X is set as the first scanning direction X1, and the other of the scanning directions X is set as the second scanning direction X2. One of the intersecting directions Y is set as the first intersecting direction Y1, and the other of the intersecting directions Y is set as the second intersecting direction Y2. The upper side in the vertical direction Z is set as the upper side Z1, and the lower side in the vertical direction Z is set as the lower side Z2.

[0020] Structure of Liquid Discharge Apparatus 10

[0021] As Figure 1As shown, the liquid ejection apparatus 10 is configured in a manner that performs printing on the medium 99 by ejecting liquid onto the medium 99. The liquid may, for example, also include ink. The liquid may, for example, also be of multiple colors. The liquid ejection apparatus 10 may, for example, also be an inkjet printer. The liquid ejection apparatus 10 may, for example, also be provided with a medium conveying section 11, a printing section 12, a maintenance apparatus 13, and a control section 14.

[0022] Structure of the medium conveying section 11

[0023] The medium conveying section 11 is configured in a manner that conveys the medium 99. The medium conveying section 11 may, for example, also be provided with a medium support section 15 and a plurality of conveying rollers 16. The medium support section 15 is configured in a manner that supports the medium 99. The medium support section 15 may, for example, also be configured in a manner that supports the conveyed medium 99 from below Z2. The conveying rollers 16 convey the medium 99 by rotating.

[0024] The medium conveying section 11 may, for example, also convey the medium 99 intermittently. Specifically, the medium conveying section 11 stops the conveyance of the medium 99 during the period in which printing is performed on the medium 99. The medium conveying section 11 conveys the medium 99 after printing has been performed on the medium 99. The medium conveying section 11 is not limited to long and narrow medium 99, and may, for example, also convey single sheet medium 99.

[0025] Structure of the printing section 12

[0026] The printing section 12 is configured in a manner that performs printing on the medium 99. The printing section 12 performs printing in the region of the medium 99 that is supported by the medium support section 15. The printing section 12 is configured in a manner that performs printing on the medium 99 in the printing region 17.

[0027] The printing section 12 may, for example, also be provided with a carriage 21, a plurality of heads 22, and a pressurizing section 23. That is, the liquid ejection apparatus 10 may, for example, also be provided with the carriage 21, the plurality of heads 22, and the pressurizing section 23.

[0028] The carriage 21 is configured in a manner that mounts the plurality of heads 22. The carriage 21 is configured in a manner that reciprocally moves along the scanning direction X by a driving force from a carriage drive section that is not shown. The carriage drive section is a driving source for moving the carriage 21 along the scanning direction X. The carriage drive section may, for example, also be a motor. The carriage drive section is controlled by the control section 14.

[0029] The carriage 21 thereby moves the plurality of heads 22 along the scanning direction X. The carriage 21 passes from a position that opposes the medium 99 by reciprocally moving along the scanning direction X. The carriage 21 may, for example, pass from above Z1 of the medium support section 15.

[0030] In the liquid discharge device 10, the direction in which the carriage 21 moves is the same as the direction in which the medium 99 moves on the medium support portion 15. The liquid discharge device 10 is a side-shifting printer. The carriage 21 is controlled by the control portion 14. That is, the control portion 14 controls the carriage 21.

[0031] As the plurality of heads 22, the printing portion 12 can also have, for example, five heads 22. As the five heads 22, the printing portion 12 can also have, for example, a first head 22a, a second head 22b, a third head 22c, a fourth head 22d, and a fifth head 22e.

[0032] The plurality of heads 22 can also be arranged in the scanning direction X. The plurality of heads 22 can also be arranged in the order of the second head 22b, the first head 22a, the third head 22c, the fourth head 22d, and the fifth head 22e toward the second scanning direction X2. The plurality of heads 22 are respectively the same structure. Therefore, one head 22 will be described hereinafter at times.

[0033] The head 22 is configured to discharge liquid. The head 22 of the present embodiment discharges liquid in the vertical direction Z. The head 22 has a nozzle face 24. On the nozzle face 24, a plurality of nozzles 25 that discharge liquid are opened. The nozzle face 24 is a face on which the plurality of nozzles 25 are opened. The head 22 discharges liquid from the plurality of nozzles 25.

[0034] In detail, the first head 22a has a first nozzle face 24a. The first nozzle face 24a has a plurality of first nozzles 25a opened. The plurality of first nozzles 25a are respectively configured to discharge liquid.

[0035] The second head 22b has a second nozzle face 24b. The second nozzle face 24b has a plurality of second nozzles 25b opened. The plurality of second nozzles 25b are respectively configured to discharge liquid.

[0036] The third head 22c has a third nozzle face 24c. The third nozzle face 24c has a plurality of third nozzles 25c opened. The plurality of third nozzles 25c are respectively configured to discharge liquid.

[0037] The fourth head 22d has a fourth nozzle face 24d. The fourth nozzle face 24d has a plurality of fourth nozzles 25d opened. The plurality of fourth nozzles 25d are respectively configured to discharge liquid.

[0038] The fifth head 22e has a fifth nozzle face 24e. The fifth nozzle face 24e has a plurality of fifth nozzles 25e opened. The plurality of fifth nozzles 25e are respectively configured to discharge liquid.

[0039] The head 22 is, for example, a line head capable of discharging liquid to the medium 99 in the cross direction Y. The head 22 is capable of discharging liquid to the entire region of the region of the medium 99 supported by the medium support portion 15.

[0040] The plurality of heads 22 are mounted on the carriage 21. The plurality of heads 22 are configured to discharge liquid to the medium 99 respectively. The plurality of heads 22 are configured to discharge liquid in the printing region 17 respectively along the scanning direction X. The plurality of heads 22 print an image on the medium 99 by discharging liquid to the medium 99.

[0041] The plurality of heads 22 can discharge the same kind of liquid respectively, or can discharge different kinds of liquid respectively. For example, four heads 22 can discharge ink of different colors respectively, and one head 22 can discharge a reaction liquid that causes the ink to coagulate. The reaction liquid is difficult to dry compared to the ink.

[0042] In detail, as one example of the liquid, the first head 22a, the third head 22c, the fourth head 22d, and the fifth head 22e can discharge ink of different colors. As one example of the liquid, the second head 22b can discharge a reaction liquid. The ink discharged from the first head 22a corresponds to one example of the first liquid, the reaction liquid discharged from the second head 22b corresponds to one example of the second liquid, and the ink discharged from the third head 22c corresponds to one example of the third liquid.

[0043] The pressurizing portion 23 is connected to the head 22. The pressurizing portion 23, for example, pressurizes the inside of the plurality of heads 22. The printing portion 12 can also have a plurality of pressurizing portions 23. For example, the printing portion 12 can have a pressurizing portion 23 for each head 22.

[0044] The pressurizing portion 23 is, for example, a pump. The pressurizing portion 23 pressurizes the inside of the head 22 to cause liquid to be discharged from the head 22. That is, the pressurizing portion 23 pressurizes liquid to cause it to be discharged from the nozzle 25 by pressurizing the inside of the head 22. Pressurizing and discharging liquid is also called pressurized cleaning. Pressurized cleaning is maintenance that causes bubbles, foreign matter, and the like to be discharged from the nozzle 25 together with the liquid in the head 22 by forcibly discharging liquid from the nozzle 25.

[0045] Structure of the maintenance device 13

[0046] The maintenance device 13 is provided in a maintenance region 18 different from the printing region 17. The maintenance region 18 can be located at the first scanning direction X1 compared to the printing region 17.

[0047] The maintenance device 13 can also have the moisturizing section 31, the cleaning section 32, the first wiping section 33, and the rinsing section 34. The maintenance device 13 can also be arranged in the order of the moisturizing section 31, the cleaning section 32, the first wiping section 33, and the rinsing section 34 in the second scanning direction X2.

[0048] The moisturizing section 31 can also have one or more moisturizing covers 35. The moisturizing section 31 can also have the same number of moisturizing covers 35 as the heads 22. The moisturizing section 31 can also have, for example, five moisturizing covers 35. The moisturizing section 31 can also have a first moisturizing cover 35a, a second moisturizing cover 35b, a third moisturizing cover 35c, a fourth moisturizing cover 35d, and a fifth moisturizing cover 35e.

[0049] The plurality of moisturizing covers 35 are arranged in the order of the second moisturizing cover 35b, the first moisturizing cover 35a, the third moisturizing cover 35c, the fourth moisturizing cover 35d, and the fifth moisturizing cover 35e in the second scanning direction X2.

[0050] The plurality of moisturizing covers 35 are arranged in the order of the second moisturizing cover 35b, the first moisturizing cover 35a, the third moisturizing cover 35c, the fourth moisturizing cover 35d, and the fifth moisturizing cover 35e in the second scanning direction X2.

[0051] The moisturizing cover 35 forms a space communicating with the nozzle 25 by contacting the head 22. The moisturizing cover 35 clogs the head 22 in the standby position 19. The moisturizing cover 35 moisturizes the nozzle 25 by clogging the head 22. That is, the moisturizing cover 35 moisturizes the head 22 by covering the nozzle face 24 at the time of the standby operation of the head 22. The standby operation is an operation in which the head 22 is clogged under the condition that the head 22 does not perform the printing operation, the suction cleaning operation, the wiping operation, and the rinsing operation. The standby operation is an operation in which the state in which the head 22 is covered by the moisturizing cover 35 is maintained.

[0052] Thus, the plurality of moisturizing covers 35 are configured in a manner to cover the plurality of heads 22, respectively. In the present embodiment, the first moisturizing cover 35a is capable of abutting against the first nozzle face 24a and covers the first nozzle face 24a at the time of standby operation of the first head 22a. The second moisturizing cover 35b is capable of abutting against the second nozzle face 24b and covers the second nozzle face 24b at the time of standby operation of the second head 22b. The third moisturizing cover 35c is capable of abutting against the third nozzle face 24c and covers the third nozzle face 24c at the time of standby operation of the third head 22c. The fourth moisturizing cover 35d is capable of abutting against the fourth nozzle face 24d and covers the fourth nozzle face 24d at the time of standby operation of the fourth head 22d. The fifth moisturizing cover 35e is capable of abutting against the fifth nozzle face 24e and covers the fifth nozzle face 24e at the time of standby operation of the fifth head 22e.

[0053] The cleaning section 32 performs suction cleaning of the heads 22. Suction cleaning is cleaning in which liquid is sucked from the heads 22. The cleaning section 32 individually cleans the plurality of heads 22.

[0054] The cleaning section 32 can also have one or more recovery covers 36, one or more flow passages 37, and one or more suction pumps 38. The recovery cover 36 is provided in the maintenance region 18 on the side of the printing region 17 in the scanning direction X compared to the moisturizing cover 35. The moisturizing cover 35 and the recovery cover 36 are provided in a manner to be arranged in the maintenance region 18 outside the printing region 17 in the scanning direction X. The recovery cover 36 forms a space communicating with the nozzle 25 by coming into contact with the head 22. The recovery cover 36 press-covers the head 22. The recovery cover 36 recovers liquid from the head 22 by covering the nozzle face 24 at the time of cleaning operation of the head 22.

[0055] The flow passage 37 is configured in a manner to connect the recovery cover 36 and the suction pump 38. The suction pump 38 is configured in a manner to suck liquid contained in the recovery cover 36. That is, the suction pump 38 is configured in a manner to suck liquid inside the recovery cover 36 via the flow passage 37. Liquid sucked by the suction pump 38 is discharged as waste liquid to a waste liquid storage section not shown.

[0056] The cleaning section 32 performs suction cleaning by making the inside of the recovery cover 36 negative pressure. By performing suction cleaning on the head 22 not filled with liquid, it is possible to fill liquid into the head 22. By performing suction cleaning on the head 22 filled with liquid, it is possible to discharge bubbles, foreign matter, and the like inside the head 22. Thus, the recovery cover 36 is configured in a manner to contain liquid discharged from the plurality of heads 22, respectively, by suction by the suction pump 38 in conjunction with suction cleaning.

[0057] The cleaning section 32 has a first cleaning section 41 and a second cleaning section 42. The first cleaning section 41 and the second cleaning section 42 are arranged in the scan direction X. The first cleaning section 41 is located closer to the second scan direction X2 than the second cleaning section 42.

[0058] The first cleaning section 41 is configured to individually perform suction cleaning on the heads 22 that respectively eject the various colors of ink among the plurality of heads 22. The first cleaning section 41 can also have a first recovery cover 43, a first flow path 45, and a first suction pump 47.

[0059] The first recovery cover 43 and the second recovery cover 44 described later are arranged in the scan direction X that intersects the vertical direction Z. The first recovery cover 43 is disposed between the second recovery cover 44 described later and the first wiper section 33 in the scan direction X. The first recovery cover 43 is configured to accommodate the ink discharged from the plurality of heads 22. That is, the first recovery cover 43 is configured to recover the first liquid. The first recovery cover 43 is configured to recover the third liquid.

[0060] The second cleaning section 42 is configured to perform suction cleaning on the heads 22 that eject the reaction liquid among the plurality of heads 22. The second cleaning section 42 can also have a second recovery cover 44, a second flow path 46, and a second suction pump 48.

[0061] The second recovery cover 44 and the first recovery cover 43 are arranged in the scan direction X that intersects the vertical direction Z. The second recovery cover 44 is disposed between the moisturizing cover 35 and the first recovery cover 43 in the scan direction X. The second recovery cover 44 is configured to accommodate the reaction liquid discharged from the heads 22. That is, the second recovery cover 44 is configured to recover the second liquid.

[0062] The recovery cover 36 includes the first recovery cover 43 and the second recovery cover 44. The flow path 37 includes the first flow path 45 and the second flow path 46. The suction pump 38 includes the first suction pump 47 and the second suction pump 48. In this way, the liquid ejection device 10 and the maintenance device 13 can also have the first recovery cover 43, the second recovery cover 44, the first flow path 45, the second flow path 46, the first suction pump 47, and the second suction pump 48.

[0063] The first wiper section 33 wipes the liquid from the heads 22. The first wiper section 33 can wipe the nozzle face 24 at a position opposite the heads 22. The first wiper section 33 performs maintenance of the heads 22 by wiping the waste liquid from the nozzle face 24. The first wiper section 33 performs wiping of the nozzle face 24.

[0064] The flushing section 34 is configured to receive liquid discharged from the nozzle 25. The flushing section 34 can also accommodate liquid discharged from the head 22 by the pressurizing section 23. That is, the flushing section 34 can also accommodate liquid discharged in conjunction with pressurized cleaning.

[0065] The flushing section 34 can also accommodate liquid discharged by air blow. Air blow is an operation in which liquid is blown from the nozzle 25 in order to suppress clogging of the nozzle 25. Air blow is also referred to as flushing. By air blow, for example, liquid in which thickening has occurred is discharged from the nozzle 25. The flushing section 34 receives liquid discharged from the head 22 opposite to itself.

[0066] Structure of the control section 14

[0067] The control section 14 comprehensively controls the liquid discharge apparatus 10. The control section 14 controls various operations performed in the liquid discharge apparatus 10. The control section 14 can also control the medium conveying section 11, the printing section 12, and the maintenance apparatus 13.

[0068] The control section 14 can be configured as a circuit including a: one or more processors that execute various processes in accordance with a computer program, b: one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute at least a part of the various processes, or c: a combination thereof. The hardware circuit is, for example, an application specific integrated circuit. The processor includes a CPU, and a memory such as a RAM and a ROM, and the memory stores program codes or instructions configured in such a manner that the CPU executes the processes. The memory, that is, the computer readable medium includes all readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or a dedicated computer.

[0069] Operation of the recovery cover 36

[0070] Here, the operation of the recovery cover 36 will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 5 . In particular, the first recovery cover 43 and the second recovery cover 44 implement the same kind of operation. Therefore, the operation of the first recovery cover 43 will be described with the recovery cover 36 as a representative.

[0071] The first recovery cover 43 is movable by a cover lifting section 49 between Figure 2 and Figure 3 a separation position 61, and Figure 4 and Figure 5 a cover pressing position 62. As Figures 2 to 5 indicated, the separation position 61 is located lower Z2 than the cover pressing position 62. The cover lifting section 49 is configured to lift the first recovery cover 43. The cover lifting section 49 can also be a pneumatic cylinder.

[0072] As Figure 2 indicated, the cover pressing section 49 is configured to press the first recovery cover 43. The cover pressing section 49 can also be a pneumatic cylinder.Figure 3 The separation position 61 is a position where the first recovery cover 43 is separated from the head 22 in the vertical direction Z, as shown. The first recovery cover 43 is separated from the head 22 in the vertical direction Z at the separation position 61. Figure 4 Also Figure 5 The capping position 62 is a position where the head 22 is capped by the first recovery cover 43 by being covered by the first recovery cover 43 in the vertical direction Z, as shown. Thus, the first recovery cover 43 can cap the head 22 at the capping position 62 to perform a cleaning operation.

[0073] Structure of the cover 56

[0074] As shown in Figure 2 Also Figure 3 The maintenance device 13 is provided with the cover 56 and the moving section 50. The cover 56 is a cover that can cover the first recovery cover 43 for recovering ink. The cover 56 can not cover the second recovery cover 44 for recovering the reaction liquid.

[0075] The cover 56 can also be a plate shape. The cover 56 is an aluminum plate, but can also be a resin plate. The cover 56 is configured to extend in the cross direction Y. The cover 56 is provided with a first surface 56a. The first surface 56a is a bottom surface of the cover 56. The first surface 56a is a surface for covering the first recovery cover 43. The first surface 56a is a surface having water resistance. In the cover 56, a portion other than the first surface 56a can also have water resistance.

[0076] The cover 56 is supported on the moving section 50. The cover 56 can move along a moving path by the moving section 50. The cover 56 can move between Figure 2 Also Figure 3 the avoidance position 57 shown in Figure 8 Also Figure 9 the capping position 58 shown in Figure 2 Also Figure 3 the avoidance position 57 shown in Figure 6 Also Figure 7 the relay position 59 shown in Figure 6 Also Figure 7 the relay position 59 shown in Figure 8 Also Figure 9 the capping position 58 shown in

[0077] The avoidance position 57 is a position where the first recovery cover 43 is avoided, as shown in Figure 2 Also Figure 3 the avoidance position 57 is a position where the first recovery cover 43 is avoided in the vertical direction Z and the scanning direction X.

[0078] As shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7 The relay position 59 is a position that is apart upward Zl from the first recovery cover 43. The relay position 59 is the same height as the avoidance position 57 in the vertical direction Z. The relay position 59 is a position that is apart from the avoidance position 57 in the second scanning direction X2. The relay position 59 is a position that is above Zl of the first recovery cover 43 in the vertical direction Z.

[0079] As shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9 The cover position 58 is a position that covers the first recovery cover 43 by covering the first recovery cover 43. The cover position 58 is the same position as the relay position 59 in the scanning direction X. The cover position 58 is a position that is apart downward Z2 from the relay position 59 in the vertical direction Z.

[0080] Thus, the cover 56 is configured in a manner that covers the first recovery cover 43 in a state where the cover 56 is disposed at the cover position 58. Thereby, the cover 56 comes into contact with the first recovery cover 43 in a state where the cover 56 is disposed at the cover position 58. The cover 56 covers the first recovery cover 43 from above Zl by moving from the relay position 59 to the cover position 58. Thereby, the cover 56 covers the first recovery cover 43 in a state where the cover 56 is in close contact with the first recovery cover 43 from above Zl.

[0081] As shown in Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 9 The moving section 50 is configured in a manner that moves the cover 56 along the movement path. The moving section 50 is configured in a manner that moves the cover 56 along the vertical direction Z and the scanning direction X.

[0082] The moving section 50 includes a first moving section 51 and a second moving section 52. The first moving section 51 moves the cover 56 along the vertical direction Z. The first moving section 51 supports the second moving section 52 and the cover 56. The first moving section 51 is capable of moving the second moving section 52 and the cover 56 along the vertical direction Z. The first moving section 51 may, for example, include a pneumatic cylinder.

[0083] The second moving section 52 moves the cover 56 in the scanning direction X. The second moving section 52 can also move the cover 56 in the scanning direction X between the recovery cover 36 disposed at the separation position 61 and the head 22 in the vertical direction Z. Thus, the movement of the head 22 in the scanning direction X and the movement of the cover 56 in the scanning direction X can be performed simultaneously. The second moving section 52 can include, for example, a motor 52a and a slide screw 52b. The motor 52a is a drive source that moves the cover 56 in the scanning direction X. The slide screw 52b supports the cover 56. The slide screw 52b can move the cover 56 in the scanning direction X by a driving force from the motor 52a.

[0084] Operation of the cover 56

[0085] Here, the operation of the cover 56 will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 9

[0086] In the liquid discharge apparatus 10, the carriage 21 is disposed at the standby position 19 at the time of standby operation. The head 22 is covered with the wetting cover 35 at the time of standby operation. The control section 14 controls the carriage 21 so that the head 22 moves in the printing region 17 at the time of printing operation performed in accordance with the input of a printing instruction. The control section 14 controls the printing section 12 so that the liquid is discharged from the head 22 in the printing region 17 at the time of printing operation. The control section 14 controls the carriage 21 so that the head 22 moves in the scanning direction X and controls the medium conveying section 11 so that the medium 99 is conveyed in the scanning direction X at the time of printing operation. Thus, the printing of the medium 99 is performed.

[0087] The control section 14 performs the cleaning operation when a cleaning condition is established. The cleaning condition can be established at the start of the printing operation. The cleaning condition can be established when a predetermined period elapses from the previous cleaning at the start of the printing operation. The cleaning condition can be established in accordance with a printing condition from the previous cleaning at the start of the printing operation. The printing condition can include at least any one of the number of cycles printed, the amount of liquid discharged in the printing, and the number of sheets of the medium 99 printed.

[0088] Hereinafter, the case where the cleaning condition is established at the start of the printing operation will be described as a specific example. In this case, the cleaning is performed in the order of the fifth head 22e, the fourth head 22d, the third head 22c, the first head 22a, and the second head 22b.

[0089] As Figure 8 and Figure 9 ​As shown, before the cleaning conditions are met, the cover 56 is positioned at cover position 58. Thus, the first recycling cover 43 is covered by the cover 56. The second recycling cover 44 is not covered by the cover 56.

[0090] In this case, the moisturizing cover 35 covers the head 22 located in the standby position 19. The first recycling cover 43 and the second recycling cover 44 are positioned in the separation position 61.

[0091] When cleaning conditions are met, the control unit 14 controls the lifting unit (not shown) to move the moisturizing cover 35 from a state covering the head 22 to a state separating it from the head 22. Then, the control unit 14 moves the carriage 21 in the second scanning direction X2. As a result, the cleaning of the fifth head 22e is performed.

[0092] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, when performing the cleaning action of the fifth head 22e, the control unit 14 controls the first moving unit 51 in such a way that the cover 56 moves from the cover position 58 to the relay position 59 along the vertical direction Z.

[0093] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the control unit 14 controls the second moving unit 52 to move the cover 56 from the relay position 59 to the avoidance position 57 along the scanning direction X. As a result, the cover 56 avoids the first recovery cover 43.

[0094] With the first recycling cover 43 and the second recycling cover 44 positioned in the separation position 61, the control unit 14 moves the carriage 21 toward a position where the fifth head 22e in the vertical direction Z is opposite to the first recycling cover 43.

[0095] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the control unit 14 controls the cap lifting unit 49 to move the first recycling cap 43 from the disengaged position 61 to the capped position 62. In this state, the control unit 14 performs the cleaning operation of the fifth head 22e by driving the first suction pump 47. When the cleaning operation of the fifth head 22e is completed, the control unit 14 controls the cap lifting unit 49 to move the first recycling cap 43 from the capped position 62 to the disengaged position 61.

[0096] Next, while performing the cleaning operation of the fourth head 22d, the control unit 14 moves the carriage 21 to a position in the vertical direction Z opposite the fourth head 22d and the first recycling cover 43.

[0097] The control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the separation position 61 to the pressing cover position 62. In this state, the control section 14 performs the cleaning operation of the fourth head 22d by driving the first suction pump 47. When the cleaning operation of the fourth head 22d ends, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the pressing cover position 62 to the separation position 61.

[0098] Next, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 to a position at which the third head 22c opposes the first recovery cover 43 in the vertical direction Z when performing the cleaning operation of the third head 22c.

[0099] The control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the separation position 61 to the pressing cover position 62. In this state, the control section 14 performs the cleaning operation of the third head 22c by driving the first suction pump 47. When the cleaning operation of the third head 22c ends, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the pressing cover position 62 to the separation position 61.

[0100] Next, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 to a position at which the first head 22a opposes the first recovery cover 43 in the vertical direction Z when performing the cleaning operation of the first head 22a.

[0101] The control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the separation position 61 to the pressing cover position 62. In this state, the control section 14 performs the cleaning operation of the first head 22a by driving the first suction pump 47. When the cleaning operation of the first head 22a ends, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the pressing cover position 62 to the separation position 61.

[0102] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the second moving section 52 so that the cover cap 56 moves from the avoidance position 57 to the relay position 59 in the scanning direction X when the cleaning operation of the first head 22a ends. Thus, the cover cap 56 is disposed above the cap position 58 Zl. Figure 6 Figure 7 As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the second moving section 52 so that the cover cap 56 moves from the avoidance position 57 to the relay position 59 in the scanning direction X when the cleaning operation of the first head 22a ends. Thus, the cover cap 56 is disposed above the cap position 58 Zl.

[0103] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the second moving section 52 so that the cover cap 56 moves from the avoidance position 57 to the relay position 59 in the scanning direction X when the cleaning operation of the first head 22a ends. Thus, the cover cap 56 is disposed above the cap position 58 Zl. Figure 8 Figure 9 As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the second moving section 52 so that the cover cap 56 moves from the avoidance position 57 to the relay position 59 in the scanning direction X when the cleaning operation of the first head 22a ends. Thus, the cover cap 56 is disposed above the cap position 58 Zl.

[0104] ​​Upon implementation of the cleaning operation of the second head 22b, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 to a position at which the second head 22b opposes the second recovery cover 44 in the vertical direction Z.

[0105] Thereafter, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 in such a manner that the second recovery cover 44 is moved from the separation position 61 to the pressing cover position 62. In this state, the control section 14 implements the cleaning operation of the second head 22b by driving the second suction pump 48. In this case, the cover hood 56 is disposed at the hood position 58 in such a manner as to cover the first recovery cover 43.

[0106] When the cleaning operation of the second head 22b ends, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 in such a manner that the second recovery cover 44 is moved from the pressing cover position 62 to the separation position 61. Thereby, the cleaning of the head 22 ends.

[0107] Thus, the cover hood 56 is disposed at the hood position 58 in operations other than the cleaning operation of the head 22 by the first recovery cover 43. That is, the cover hood 56 is disposed at the hood position 58 at the time of the standby operation of the head 22.

[0108] In detail, the cover hood 56 is disposed at the hood position 58 at the time of the standby operation of the first head 22a. The cover hood 56 is disposed at the hood position 58 at the time of the standby operation of the second head 22b. The cover hood 56 is disposed at the hood position 58 at the time of the cleaning operation of the second head 22b by the second recovery cover 44.

[0109] Effects of the first embodiment

[0110] The effects of the first embodiment will be described.

[0111] (1-1) The cover hood 56 is disposed at the hood position 58 at the time of the standby operation of the head 22. According to this structure, the cover hood 56 is disposed at the hood position 58 at the time of the standby operation in which the head 22 is covered with the moisturizing cover 35. Thereby, even in the case where the moisturizing cover 35 and the recovery cover 36 are provided separately, it is possible to suppress drying of the inside of the first recovery cover 43 by reducing the opportunity for the inside of the first recovery cover 43 to be exposed to the atmosphere. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation in which liquid adheres to the inside of the first recovery cover 43.

[0112] (1-2) The liquid discharge apparatus 10 is provided with a first moving section 51 that moves the cover 56 in the vertical direction Z, and a second moving section 52 that moves the cover 56 in the scanning direction X. According to this structure, the cover 56 can be moved to avoid interference not only in the vertical direction Z but also in the scanning direction X. Thus, when the first recovery cover 43 covers the head 22a, the cover 56 can be moved to avoid interference.

[0113] In addition, by moving the cover 56 in the vertical direction Z relative to the first recovery cover 43, the adhesion of the cover 56 to the first recovery cover 43 can be improved. Thus, the adhesion of liquid to the inside of the first recovery cover 43 can be suppressed.

[0114] (1-3) The first recovery cover 43 and the second recovery cover 44 are arranged in the scanning direction X, and the cover 56 is arranged at the cover position 58 that covers the first recovery cover 43 when the second head 22b is cleaned by the second recovery cover 44. According to this structure, even when the second head 22b is cleaned by the second recovery cover 44, the cover 56 is arranged at the cover position 58 that covers the first recovery cover 43. Thus, even when the humidifying cover 35, the first recovery cover 43, and the second recovery cover 44 are provided separately, the inside of the first recovery cover 43 can be less exposed to the atmosphere. Thus, the adhesion of liquid to the inside of the first recovery cover 43 can be suppressed. In addition, the reaction liquid that drips from the second head 22b can be suppressed from being received by the first recovery cover 43. Thus, the adhesion of liquid to the inside of the first recovery cover 43 can be suppressed.

[0115] (1-4) The cover 56 does not cover the second recovery cover 44. According to this structure, the cover 56 does not have to be moved, so the cover 56 does not have to be provided separately on the second recovery cover 44 that recovers the reaction liquid that is difficult to dry compared to ink from the second head 22b. Thus, the adhesion of liquid to the inside of the first recovery cover 43 can be suppressed, and the liquid discharge apparatus 10 can be prevented from becoming large.

[0116] (1-5) The first recovery cover 43 is arranged between the second recovery cover 44 and the first wiping section 33 in the scanning direction X. According to this structure, liquid can be wiped from the head 22 by the first wiping section 33. In particular, after liquid is recovered in the first recovery cover 43 from the head 22 that discharges ink, such as the first head 22a, liquid can be wiped from the head 22 by the first wiping section 33 that is arranged in the scanning direction X from the first recovery cover 43. Thus, the dripping of liquid inside the liquid discharge apparatus 10 can be suppressed.

[0117] (1-6) The liquid ejection device 10 includes a first suction pump 47 for drawing liquid contained in the first recovery cover 43. According to this configuration, the first suction pump 47 can draw liquid adhering to the inside of the first recovery cover 43. This makes it difficult for liquid to remain inside the first recovery cover 43. Therefore, the situation where liquid adheres to the inside of the first recovery cover 43 can be suppressed.

[0118] (1-7) The first surface 56a is waterproof. According to this structure, when the cover 56 covers the first recovery cover 43, adhesion of liquid to the first surface 56a can be suppressed. Therefore, the dripping of liquid within the liquid dispensing device 10 can be suppressed. Furthermore, the adhesion of liquid to the first surface 56a can be suppressed. Thus, the reduction of the adhesion between the cover 56 and the first recovery cover 43 can be suppressed.

[0119] (1-8) The cover 56 is positioned at the cover position 58 during the standby operation of the first head 22a and the second head 22b. According to this structure, during standby operation when the first head 22a is covered by the first moisturizing cover 35a and the second head 22b is covered by the second moisturizing cover 35b, the cover 56 is positioned at the cover position 58 to cover the first recovery cover 43. Therefore, even when the moisturizing cover 35, the first recovery cover 43, and the second recovery cover 44 are respectively provided, the chance of the interior of the first recovery cover 43 being exposed to the atmosphere can be reduced. Thus, the situation where liquid adheres to the interior of the first recovery cover 43 can be suppressed.

[0120] (1-9) The first recovery cover 43 can be used in conjunction with the cleaning operations of the first head 22a, the third head 22c, the fourth head 22d, and the fifth head 22e. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where liquid adheres to the inside of the first recovery cover 43 and to prevent the device from becoming too large.

[0121] Second Implementation Method

[0122] Next, the second embodiment will be described. In the following description, for structures that are the same as those in the previously described embodiments, repeated descriptions will be omitted or simplified, and structures that are different from those in the previously described embodiments will be described.

[0123] Function of the second wiping section 64

[0124] like Figure 10As shown in the second embodiment, the maintenance device 13 can also be provided with a second wiping portion 64. The second wiping portion 64 is provided at a position along the movement path of the cover 56. In detail, the second wiping portion 64 is provided at a lower position Z2 than the path on the path between the relay position 59 and the avoidance position 57 of the cover 56. Thus, the second wiping portion 64 wipes the liquid from the first surface 56a in conjunction with the movement of the cover 56. In this way, the second wiping portion 64 can wipe the liquid adhering to the first surface 56a during the movement of the cover 56 when the cover 56 covers the first recovery cover 43 at the cover position 58.

[0125] The second wiping portion 64 is preferably composed of an elastic member such as silicone. Thus, the second wiping portion 64 can wipe the first surface 56a in a state of being deflected in the scanning direction X in conjunction with the movement of the cover 56 in the scanning direction X. In detail, in the case where the cover 56 moves in the first scanning direction XI, the second wiping portion 64 is deflected in the first scanning direction XI. In the case where the cover 56 moves in the second scanning direction X2, the second wiping portion 64 is deflected in the second scanning direction X2. That is, the second wiping portion 64 can also be deflected toward the moving direction of the cover 56.

[0126] In the case where the cover 56 moves toward the lower position Z2 from the relay position 59 to the cover position 58, the second wiping portion 64 can also be deflected in the scanning direction X by contacting the first surface 56a. Thus, the second wiping portion 64 does not become an obstacle to the lowering of the cover 56 toward the lower position Z2. The liquid wiped off by the second wiping portion 64 can also be discharged as waste liquid to a waste liquid storage portion not shown.

[0127] Effects of the Second Embodiment

[0128] The effects of the second embodiment will be described.

[0129] (2-1) The second wiping portion 64 is composed in a manner of wiping the liquid from the first surface 56a. According to this structure, even in the case where the liquid adheres to the first surface 56a, the liquid adhering to the first surface 56a can be wiped. Thus, the case where the liquid adhering to the first surface 56a drips within the liquid ejection device 10 can be suppressed. In addition to this, the case where the liquid adhering to the first surface 56a sticks can be suppressed. Therefore, the decrease in the close contact performance of the cover 56 with the first recovery cover 43 can be suppressed.

[0130] (2-2) The second wiping part 64 is positioned along the moving path of the cover 56 and wipes the liquid from the first surface 56a as the cover 56 moves. With this structure, even if liquid adheres to the first surface 56a, the liquid can be wiped away as the cover 56 moves. Therefore, even without moving the cover 56 to wipe away the liquid adhering to the first surface 56a, the dripping of liquid adhering to the first surface 56a within the liquid dispensing device 10 can be suppressed. Furthermore, it can suppress any reduction in the adhesion between the cover 56 and the first recovery cover 43.

[0131] Third Implementation Method

[0132] Next, the third embodiment will be described.

[0133] Structure of cleaning section 70

[0134] like Figure 11 As shown, in the third embodiment, the maintenance device 13 may also include a cleaning unit 70. The cleaning unit 70 is configured to clean the interior of the first recycling cover 43. The cleaning unit 70 cleans the interior of the first recycling cover 43 by spraying cleaning fluid into the interior of the first recycling cover 43. The cleaning fluid may be, for example, water.

[0135] The cleaning unit 70 consists of a cleaning tank 71 and a cleaning nozzle 72. The cleaning tank 71 is configured to store cleaning fluid. The cleaning nozzle 72 is configured to spray the cleaning fluid stored in the cleaning tank 71 onto the first recovery cover 43.

[0136] In detail, the cleaning nozzle 72 can also be configured to move in the scanning direction X. The cleaning nozzle 72 can also be positioned to cover the first recovery cover 43 when it moves in the second scanning direction X2. The cleaning nozzle 72 can also spray cleaning fluid into the interior of the first recovery cover 43 when it covers the first recovery cover 43. Alternatively, if cleaning of the first recovery cover 43 is not performed, the cleaning nozzle 72 can also move in the first scanning direction X1 to avoid the first recovery cover 43.

[0137] When the first recycling cover 43 is cleaned by the cleaning unit 70, the cleaning fluid sprayed from the cleaning unit 70 into the interior of the first recycling cover 43 washes away the ink inside the first recycling cover 43 into the first flow channel 45. Thus, the interior of the first recycling cover 43 is cleaned. The liquid washed away from the interior of the first recycling cover 43 can also be discharged as waste liquid to a waste liquid collection unit (not shown) via the first flow channel 45 and the first suction pump 47.

[0138] When the cover 56 moves from the clearance position 57 to the cover position 58, the control unit 14 controls the cleaning unit 70 to clean the interior of the first recycling cover 43 before the cover 56 reaches the cover position 58. Specifically, the control unit 14 can also control the cleaning unit 70 to clean the interior of the first recycling cover 43 while the cover 56 is positioned in the clearance position 57, when the cover 56 moves from the clearance position 57 to the cover position 58. The control unit 14 can also control the cleaning unit 70 to clean the interior of the first recycling cover 43 midway through the movement of the cover 56 from the clearance position 57 to the cover position 58.

[0139] The role and effects of the third implementation method

[0140] The function and effects of the third embodiment will be explained.

[0141] (3-1) The liquid dispensing device 10 includes a cleaning section 70 for cleaning the interior of the first recovery cover 43. With this structure, the interior of the first recovery cover 43 can be cleaned by the cleaning section 70. This makes it difficult for liquid to remain inside the first recovery cover 43. Therefore, the situation where liquid adheres to the interior of the first recovery cover 43 can be suppressed.

[0142] Fourth Implementation Method

[0143] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0144] The action of covering 56

[0145] In the fourth embodiment, cleaning can also be performed in the order of the second head 22b, the first head 22a, the third head 22c, the fourth head 22d, and the fifth head 22e. Hereinafter, a specific example will be provided where the cleaning conditions are met at the start of the printing operation.

[0146] like Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 As shown, before the cleaning conditions are met, the cover 56 is positioned at the cover position 58. Thus, the first recycling cover 43 is covered by the cover 56. The second recycling cover 44 is not covered by the cover 56. In this case, both the first recycling cover 43 and the second recycling cover 44 are positioned at the separation position 61.

[0147] When the cleaning conditions are met and the cleaning action of the second head 22b is performed, the control unit 14 moves the carriage 21 to a position in the vertical direction Z opposite to the second head 22b and the second recovery cover 44.

[0148] Thereafter, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so as to move the second recovery cover 44 from the separation position 61 to the pressing cover position 62. In this state, the control section 14 implements the cleaning operation of the second head 22b by driving the second suction pump 48. In this case, the cover 56 is disposed at the cover position 58 so as to cover the first recovery cover 43.

[0149] When the cleaning operation of the second head 22b is completed, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so as to move the second recovery cover 44 from the pressing cover position 62 to the separation position 61.

[0150] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the first moving section 51 so as to move the cover 56 from the cover position 58 to the relay position 59 along the vertical direction Z at the time of implementing the cleaning operation of the first head 22a. Figure 6 Figure 7 As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the first moving section 51 so as to move the cover 56 from the cover position 58 to the relay position 59 along the vertical direction Z at the time of implementing the cleaning operation of the first head 22a.

[0151] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the first moving section 51 so as to move the cover 56 from the cover position 58 to the relay position 59 along the vertical direction Z at the time of implementing the cleaning operation of the first head 22a. Figure 2 Figure 3 As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the first moving section 51 so as to move the cover 56 from the cover position 58 to the relay position 59 along the vertical direction Z at the time of implementing the cleaning operation of the first head 22a.

[0152] In the state where the first recovery cover 43 and the second recovery cover 44 are disposed at the separation position 61, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 to a position where the first head 22a opposes the first recovery cover 43 in the vertical direction Z.

[0153] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the first moving section 51 so as to move the cover 56 from the cover position 58 to the relay position 59 along the vertical direction Z at the time of implementing the cleaning operation of the first head 22a. Figure 4 Figure 5 As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the first moving section 51 so as to move the cover 56 from the cover position 58 to the relay position 59 along the vertical direction Z at the time of implementing the cleaning operation of the first head 22a.

[0154] Next, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 to a position where the third head 22c opposes the first recovery cover 43 in the vertical direction Z at the time of implementing the cleaning operation of the third head 22c.

[0155] ​​​The control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the separation position 61 to the pressing cover position 62. In this state, the control section 14 performs the cleaning operation of the third head 22c by driving the first suction pump 47. When the cleaning operation of the third head 22c ends, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the pressing cover position 62 to the separation position 61.

[0156] Next, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 to a position at which the fourth head 22d opposes the first recovery cover 43 in the vertical direction Z when performing the cleaning operation of the fourth head 22d.

[0157] The control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the separation position 61 to the pressing cover position 62. In this state, the control section 14 performs the cleaning operation of the fourth head 22d by driving the first suction pump 47. When the cleaning operation of the fourth head 22d ends, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the pressing cover position 62 to the separation position 61.

[0158] Next, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 to a position at which the fifth head 22e opposes the first recovery cover 43 in the vertical direction Z when performing the cleaning operation of the fifth head 22e.

[0159] The control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the separation position 61 to the pressing cover position 62. In this state, the control section 14 performs the cleaning operation of the fifth head 22e by driving the first suction pump 47. When the cleaning operation of the fifth head 22e ends, the control section 14 controls the cover lifting section 49 so that the first recovery cover 43 moves from the pressing cover position 62 to the separation position 61. Thus, the cleaning of the heads 22 ends.

[0160] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the second moving section 52 so that the cover cap 56 moves from the avoidance position 57 to the relay position 59 along the scanning direction X when the cleaning operation of the fifth head 22e ends. Thus, the cover cap 56 is disposed above Zl of the cap position 58. Figure 6 Figure 7 As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the second moving section 52 so that the cover cap 56 moves from the avoidance position 57 to the relay position 59 along the scanning direction X when the cleaning operation of the fifth head 22e ends. Thus, the cover cap 56 is disposed above Zl of the cap position 58.

[0161] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the second moving section 52 so that the cover cap 56 moves from the avoidance position 57 to the relay position 59 along the scanning direction X when the cleaning operation of the fifth head 22e ends. Thus, the cover cap 56 is disposed above Zl of the cap position 58. Figure 8 Figure 9 As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the control section 14 controls the second moving section 52 so that the cover cap 56 moves from the avoidance position 57 to the relay position 59 along the scanning direction X when the cleaning operation of the fifth head 22e ends. Thus, the cover cap 56 is disposed above Zl of the cap position 58.

[0162] Variation​​

[0163] This embodiment can be implemented by being changed as follows. This embodiment and the following changed examples can be implemented by being combined with each other within a range in which they are not technically contradictory.

[0164] • In the third embodiment, the cleaning section 70 can also be mounted on the carriage 21 together with the plurality of heads 22. The cleaning section 70 can also be configured in such a manner that the cleaning liquid flows in a reverse direction from the inside of the first recovery cover 43. The maintenance device 13 can also be provided with a mechanism that recovers the cleaning liquid that overflows from the first recovery cover 43. Although the cleaning liquid is water, it is not limited thereto.

[0165] • The cleaning condition can also be established during the printing operation. The cleaning condition can also be established when a predetermined period has elapsed since the previous cleaning during the printing operation. The cleaning condition can also be established according to the printing condition since the previous cleaning during the printing operation. In this case, when the cleaning condition is established, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 from the printing region 17 to the maintenance region 18. After the cleaning operation ends, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 to the printing region 17 again.

[0166] • The cleaning condition can also be established at the end of the printing operation. The cleaning condition can also be established when a predetermined period has elapsed since the previous cleaning at the end of the printing operation. The cleaning condition can also be established according to the printing condition since the previous cleaning at the end of the printing operation. In this case, when the cleaning condition is established, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 from the printing region 17 to the maintenance region 18. After the cleaning operation ends, the control section 14 moves the carriage 21 to the standby position 19. The control section 14 controls the elevating section in such a manner that the moisturizing cover 35 covers the head 22.

[0167] • The plurality of heads 22 can also be arranged in an arbitrary order in the scanning direction X. For example, the first head 22a can be arranged at the first scanning direction XI side compared to the second head 22b. For example, the first head 22a can be arranged at the most first scanning direction XI side.

[0168] • The second head 22b can also be configured in such a manner that it ejects ink. At least any one of the first head 22a, the third head 22c, the fourth head 22d, and the fifth head 22e can also be configured in such a manner that it ejects a reaction liquid. That is, the combination of the first liquid, the second liquid, and the third liquid can also be an arbitrary combination. For example, the first liquid, the second liquid, and the third liquid can all be ink.

[0169] • The liquid ejecting apparatus 10 can also have one or more heads 22. The liquid ejecting apparatus 10 can also have one, two to four, or six or more heads 22. The head 22 can be covered by the first recovery cover 43 or the second recovery cover 44.

[0170] • The liquid ejecting apparatus 10 can also have one or three or more recovery covers 36. The liquid ejecting apparatus 10 can also have one, two to four, or six or more moisturizing covers 35.

[0171] • The second recovery cover 44 can also be disposed between the first recovery cover 43 and the first wiping section 33 in the scanning direction X. The moisturizing cover 35 can also be disposed at the second scanning direction X2 compared to the flushing section 34.

[0172] • In the case of having the same number of recovery covers 36 as the number of heads 22, the recovery cover 36 can also be configured to suction clean the plurality of heads 22 at the same time. The recovery cover 36 can also be used when performing a pressurized cleaning operation as an example of a cleaning operation. That is, the recovery cover 36 only needs to be controlled in a manner to be disposed at the cover position 58 when performing a cleaning operation of the head 22.

[0173] • The cover 56 can also cover the second recovery cover 44. The cover 56 can also be configured to selectively cover any of the plurality of recovery covers 36. The liquid ejecting apparatus 10 can also have a plurality of covers 56. In this case, the plurality of covers 56 can be configured to cover one recovery cover 36 each or can be configured to selectively cover any of the plurality of recovery covers 36. For example, the liquid ejecting apparatus 10 can also have the same number of recovery covers 36 as the number of heads 22. In this case, the cover 56 corresponding to the recovery cover 36 that is the target of the cleaning operation is disposed at the avoidance position 57. The cover 56 corresponding to the recovery cover 36 that is not the target of the cleaning operation is disposed at the cover position 58.

[0174] • The second moving section 52 can also move the cover 56 in the cross direction Y. The second moving section 52 can also move the cover 56 in a direction that is not in the scanning direction X and not in the cross direction Y among directions that intersect the vertical direction Z. That is, the second moving section 52 can also move the cover 56 in a horizontal direction that intersects the vertical direction Z. The second moving section 52 can also move the cover 56 by rotating the cover 56 about the vertical direction Z. It can also be configured that the first moving section 51 moves the cover 56 in the scanning direction X and the second moving section 52 moves the cover 56 in the vertical direction Z. The moving section 50 can also not have either of the first moving section 51 and the second moving section 52.

[0175] • The medium 99 can also be paper, a resin-made film or sheet, a composite film of resin and metal, a laminated film, a fabric, a nonwoven fabric, a metal foil, a metal film, a ceramic sheet, and a clothing material, etc.

[0176] • The liquid can be arbitrarily selected as long as it can be printed on the medium 99 by being attached to the medium 99. For example, it is provided that the ink includes a substance in which particles of a functional material composed of a solid such as a pigment or a metal particle are dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent, etc., including various compositions such as water-based ink, oil-based ink, gel ink, and hot-melt ink.

[0177] • Although a side shift printer is employed as the liquid ejection device 10, it is not limited thereto. For example, as the liquid ejection device 10, a line printer can be employed. The line printer is a printer that extends in the cross direction Y and can eject liquid to the entire body of the medium 99 in the cross direction Y. For example, as the liquid ejection device 10, a serial printer can be employed. The serial printer is a printer that can eject liquid to the medium 99 while moving in the scanning direction X. In this case, the medium 99 can be transported in the cross direction Y.

[0178] • The expression "at least any one" used in the present specification means one or more of desired options. As one example, the expression "at least any one" used in the present specification means only one option or both of two options if the number of options is two. As another example, the expression "at least any one" used in the present specification means only one option or a combination of any two or more options if the number of options is three or more.

[0179] Postscript

[0180] Hereinafter, the technical idea grasped from the above-described embodiments and modification examples and the effects thereof will be described. The technical idea and the effects thereof can be combined with each other within a range not contradictory in technology.

[0181] [1] A liquid ejection device including: a head having a nozzle face in which a plurality of nozzles that eject liquid are opened; a moisturizing cover that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of standby operation of the head; a recovery cover that recovers liquid from the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of cleaning operation of the head; and a cover shield that is movable to a shield position in which the recovery cover is covered and an escape position different from the shield position, the cover shield being disposed at the shield position at the time of the standby operation of the head.

[0182] According to this structure, when the head is covered by the moisturizing cover in the standby operation, the cover shield is disposed at the shield position that shields the recovery cover. Thus, even in the case where the moisturizing cover and the recovery cover are provided separately, it is possible to suppress drying of the inside of the recovery cover by reducing the opportunity for the inside of the recovery cover to be exposed to the atmosphere. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where liquid adheres to the inside of the recovery cover.

[0183] [2] The liquid ejecting apparatus can be configured to include a first moving unit that moves the cover shield in a vertical direction, and a second moving unit that moves the cover shield in a horizontal direction that intersects the vertical direction.

[0184] According to this structure, it is possible to cause the cover shield to retreat not only in the vertical direction but also in the horizontal direction. Thus, when the recovery cover covers the head, it is possible to cause the cover shield to retreat so that the cover shield does not interfere.

[0185] In addition, by moving the cover shield in the vertical direction with respect to the recovery cover, it is possible to improve the adhesion of the cover shield to the recovery cover. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where liquid adheres to the inside of the recovery cover.

[0186] [3] The liquid ejecting apparatus can be configured to include a second head having a second nozzle face on which a plurality of second nozzles that eject a reaction liquid are opened, and a second recovery cover that recovers the reaction liquid, the head being a first head having a first nozzle face on which a plurality of first nozzles that eject ink are opened, the recovery cover being a first recovery cover that recovers ink as a liquid, the first recovery cover and the second recovery cover being arranged in a scanning direction that intersects a vertical direction, and the cover shield being disposed at the shield position that covers the first recovery cover when a cleaning operation of the second head by the second recovery cover is performed.

[0187] According to this structure, even when the cleaning operation of the second head by the second recovery cover is performed, the cover shield is disposed at the shield position that shields the first recovery cover. Thus, even in the case where the moisturizing cover, the first recovery cover, and the second recovery cover are provided separately, it is possible to reduce the opportunity for the inside of the first recovery cover to be exposed to the atmosphere. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where liquid adheres to the inside of the first recovery cover. In addition, it is possible to suppress the situation where the reaction liquid that drips from the second head is accommodated in the first recovery cover. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where liquid adheres to the inside of the first recovery cover.

[0188] [4] In the liquid ejecting apparatus, the cover shield can not cover the second recovery cover.

[0189] According to this structure, it is not necessary to move the cover, and therefore, it is not necessary to additionally provide the cover to the second recovery cover on which the reaction liquid that is difficult to dry compared to the ink is recovered from the head. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the liquid from adhering to the inside of the first recovery cover, and it is possible to suppress the increase in size of the device.

[0190] [5] The liquid discharge device can include a first wiping portion that wipes the liquid from the head, and the first recovery cover can be disposed between the second recovery cover and the first wiping portion in the scanning direction.

[0191] According to this structure, it is possible to wipe the liquid from the head by the first wiping portion. In particular, after the liquid is recovered from the first head into the first recovery cover, it is possible to wipe the liquid from the first head by the first wiping portion. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the liquid from dripping inside the device.

[0192] [6] The liquid discharge device can include a suction pump that suctions the liquid accommodated in the recovery cover.

[0193] According to this structure, it is possible to suction the liquid adhering to the inside of the recovery cover by the suction pump. Therefore, it is difficult for the liquid to remain in the inside of the recovery cover. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the liquid from adhering to the inside of the recovery cover.

[0194] [7] The liquid discharge device can include a cleaning portion that cleans the inside of the recovery cover.

[0195] According to this structure, it is possible to clean the inside of the recovery cover by the cleaning portion. Therefore, it is difficult for the liquid to remain in the inside of the recovery cover. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the liquid from adhering to the inside of the recovery cover.

[0196] [8] In the liquid discharge device, the cover can have a first surface that covers the recovery cover when the cover is disposed at the cover position, the first surface being a surface having water repellency.

[0197] According to this structure, it is possible to suppress the liquid from adhering to the first surface when the cover covers the recovery cover. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the liquid from dripping inside the device. In addition, it is possible to suppress the liquid adhering to the first surface from adhering. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the decrease in the close contact property of the cover to the recovery cover.

[0198] [9] The liquid ejecting apparatus can further include a second wiping portion that wipes the liquid, and the cover can have a first surface that covers the recovery cover when the cover is disposed at the cover position, and the second wiping portion can wipe the liquid from the first surface.

[0199] According to this structure, even if the liquid adheres to the first surface, the liquid adhering to the first surface can be wiped along with the movement of the cover. Thus, the liquid adhering to the first surface can be prevented from dripping inside the apparatus. In addition, the liquid adhering to the first surface can be prevented from sticking. Therefore, the decrease in the close contact performance of the cover and the recovery cover can be suppressed.

[0200]

[10] In the liquid ejecting apparatus, the second wiping portion can be disposed at a position along the movement path of the cover, and can wipe the liquid from the first surface along with the movement of the cover.

[0201] According to this structure, even if the liquid adheres to the first surface, the liquid adhering to the first surface can be wiped along with the movement of the cover. Thus, even without moving the cover separately for wiping the liquid adhering to the first surface, the liquid adhering to the first surface can be prevented from dripping inside the apparatus, and the decrease in the close contact performance of the cover and the recovery cover can be suppressed.

[0202]

[11] The liquid ejecting apparatus can further include a second head having a second nozzle surface on which a plurality of second nozzles that eject a second liquid are opened, a second recovery cover that recovers the second liquid, and a cover that is disposed at the cover position when the first head is in the standby operation and the second head is in the standby operation.

[0203] According to this structure, when the first head is covered by the first cover and the second head is covered by the second cover in the standby operation, the cover is disposed at the cover position that covers the first recovery cover. Thus, even if the first recovery cover, the first cover, and the second cover are separately provided, the inside of the first recovery cover can be less likely to be exposed to the atmosphere. Therefore, the liquid can be prevented from sticking inside the first recovery cover.

[0204]

[12] The liquid ejecting apparatus described above can be configured to include a third head having a third nozzle face on which a plurality of third nozzles that eject a third liquid are opened, and a third moisturizing cover that covers the third nozzle face at the time of the standby operation of the third head. The head can be a first head having a first nozzle face on which a plurality of first nozzles that eject a first liquid are opened, and the moisturizing cover can be a first moisturizing cover that covers the first nozzle face at the time of the standby operation of the first head. The recovery cover can recover liquid from the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of the cleaning operation of the first head and the cleaning operation of the third head.

[0205] According to this configuration, the recovery cover can be shared at the time of the cleaning operation of the first head and the cleaning operation of the third head. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the liquid from adhering to the inside of the recovery cover, and it is possible to suppress the increase in size of the apparatus.

[0206]

[13] A maintenance apparatus that performs maintenance of a head having a nozzle face on which a plurality of nozzles that eject liquid are opened, the maintenance apparatus including a moisturizing cover that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of a standby operation of the head, and a recovery cover that recovers liquid from the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of a cleaning operation of the head, and a cover cover that is movable to a cover position at which the recovery cover is covered and an escape position different from the cover position, the cover cover being disposed at the cover position at the time of the standby operation of the head. According to this configuration, the same effects as those of [1] can be obtained.

[0207] Symbol Explanation

[0208] 10… liquid discharge apparatus; 11… medium conveying section; 12… printing section; 13… maintenance apparatus; 14… control section; 15… medium support section; 16… conveying roller; 17… printing area; 18… maintenance area; 19… standby position; 21… carriage; 22… head; 22a… first head; 22b… second head; 22c… third head; 22d… fourth head; 22e… fifth head; 23… pressurizing section; 24… nozzle face; 24a… first nozzle face; 24b… second nozzle face; 24c… third nozzle face; 24d… fourth nozzle face; 24e… fifth nozzle face; 25… nozzle; 25a… first nozzle; 25b… second nozzle; 25c… third nozzle; 25d… fourth nozzle; 25e… fifth nozzle; 31… moisturizing section; 32… cleaning section; 33… first wiping section; 34… flushing section; 35… moisturizing cover; 35a… first moisturizing cover; 35b… second moisturizing cover; 35c… third moisturizing cover; 35d… fourth moisturizing cover; 35e… fifth moisturizing cover; 36… recovery cover; 37… flow passage; 38… suction pump; 41… first cleaning section; 42… second cleaning section; 43… first recovery cover; 44… second recovery cover; 45… first flow passage; 46… second flow passage; 47… first suction pump; 48… second suction pump; 49… cover lifting section; 50… moving section; 51… first moving section; 52… second moving section; 52a… motor; 52b… sliding screw; 56… cover case; 56a… first face; 57… avoidance position; 58… case cover position; 59… relay position; 61… separation position; 62… capping position; 64… second wiping section; 70… cleaning section; 71… cleaning tank; 72… cleaning nozzle; 99… medium; X… scanning direction; X1… first scanning direction; X2… second scanning direction; Y… cross direction; Y1… first cross direction; Y2… second cross direction; Z… vertical direction; Z1… upward; Z2… downward.

Claims

1. A liquid discharge apparatus characterized by comprising: Possessing: a head having a nozzle face which is opened with a plurality of nozzles which eject liquid; a moisturizing cover which moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of standby operation of the head; a recovery cover which recovers liquid from the head by covering the nozzle face at the time of cleaning operation of the head; a cover shield which is movable to a shield position which covers the recovery cover and a retreat position which is different from the shield position, the cover shield is arranged at the shield position at the time of the standby operation of the head.

2. The liquid ejection device of claim 1, wherein, Possessing: a first moving section which moves the cover shield in the vertical direction; a second moving section which moves the cover shield in the horizontal direction which intersects the vertical direction.

3. The liquid ejection device of claim 1, wherein, Possessing: a second head having a second nozzle face which is opened with a plurality of second nozzles which eject reaction liquid; a second recovery cover which recovers reaction liquid, the head is a first head having a first nozzle face which is opened with a plurality of first nozzles which eject ink, the recovery cover is a first recovery cover which recovers ink which is liquid, the first recovery cover and the second recovery cover are arranged in a scanning direction which intersects the vertical direction, at the time of cleaning operation of the second head by the second recovery cover, the cover shield is arranged at the shield position which covers the first recovery cover.

4. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the cover shield does not cover the second recovery cover.

5. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a first wiping section which wipes liquid from the head is possessed, the first recovery cover is provided between the second recovery cover and the first wiping section in the scanning direction.

6. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a suction pump which suctions liquid contained in the recovery cover is possessed.

7. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a cleaning section which cleans the inside of the recovery cover is possessed.

8. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cover shield has a first face which covers the recovery cover when the cover shield is arranged at the shield position, the first face is a face which has water repellency.

9. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the liquid ejecting apparatus possesses a second wiping section which wipes liquid, the cover shield has a first face which covers the recovery cover when the cover shield is arranged at the shield position, the second wiping section wipes liquid from the first face.

10. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the second wiping section is provided at a position along the moving path of the cover shield and wipes liquid from the first face in conjunction with the movement of the cover shield.

11. The liquid ejection device of claim 1, wherein, Possessing: a second head having a second nozzle face on which a plurality of second nozzles that eject a second liquid are opened; a second moisturizing cover that covers the second nozzle face at the stand-by operation of the second head; a second recovery cover that recovers the second liquid, the head is a first head having a first nozzle face on which a plurality of first nozzles that eject a first liquid are opened, the moisturizing cover is a first moisturizing cover that covers the first nozzle face at the stand-by operation of the first head, the recovery cover is a first recovery cover that recovers ink as a liquid, the cover cover is disposed at the cover position at the stand-by operation of the first head and the stand-by operation of the second head.

12. The liquid ejection device of claim 1, wherein, provided with: a third head having a third nozzle face on which a plurality of third nozzles that eject a third liquid are opened; a third moisturizing cover that covers the third nozzle face at the stand-by operation of the third head, the head is a first head having a first nozzle face on which a plurality of first nozzles that eject a first liquid are opened, the moisturizing cover is a first moisturizing cover that covers the first nozzle face at the stand-by operation of the first head, the recovery cover recovers a liquid from the head by covering the nozzle face at the cleaning operation of the first head and the cleaning operation of the third head.

13. A maintenance device, characterized in that maintenance of a head having a nozzle face on which a plurality of nozzles that eject a liquid are opened is implemented, the maintenance device is provided with: a moisturizing cover that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle face at a stand-by operation of the head; a recovery cover that recovers a liquid from the head by covering the nozzle face at a cleaning operation of the head; a cover cover that is movable to a cover position that covers the recovery cover and an escape position that is different from the cover position, the cover cover is disposed at the cover position at the stand-by operation of the head.

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