Liquid ejecting apparatus and method for controlling liquid ejecting apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a liquid spraying device and a control method of the liquid spraying device, the liquid spraying device is provided with a machine body, a printing head and a suction assembly are arranged in the machine body, the suction assembly comprises a first sealing part, a suction part and a driving part, and the suction part is connected with the first sealing part; the machine body is provided with a suction area, the printing head can move to the suction area in the first direction, and the driving part can drive the first sealing part to move to the suction area; in the suction area, a closed space is formed between the first sealing part and the printing head, and the suction part can suck the printing head. In the application, the printing head is sucked through the suction part, so that no residual ink is left on the printing head or the residual ink is less, and the condition that the printing head is blocked due to the solidification of the ink is avoided when a printing task is not carried out for a subsequent long time. When the suction part sucks the printing head, a closed space is formed between the first sealing part and the printing head, so that the sucked ink cannot be splashed to other structures in the machine body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of inkjet printing technology, and more particularly to a liquid ejection device and a control method for the liquid ejection device. Background Technology

[0002] Liquid ejection devices (such as inkjet printers) have printheads that record images and text by ejecting tiny droplets of ink from the nozzles of the printhead onto a printing medium such as paper.

[0003] When the printhead nozzles eject tiny ink droplets, a small amount of ink adheres to the nozzle surface. After a printing job is completed, if this ink is not removed promptly, the moisture and other volatile components in the ink will evaporate, and the ink will solidify on the nozzle surface, clogging the nozzle. This prevents fresh ink droplets from being ejected properly during the next print run, ultimately affecting the print quality.

[0004] To address this issue, existing liquid ejection devices incorporate a maintenance module, primarily consisting of a doctor blade assembly and a sealing cap. After printing, the doctor blade removes residual ink from the nozzle surface, and the sealing cap covers the nozzle area to isolate it from air and reduce ink evaporation. However, this method has limited effectiveness; if the liquid ejection device remains unused for extended periods, nozzle clogging may still occur. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a liquid ejection device and a control method for the liquid ejection device, which solves the problem that the nozzle of the liquid ejection device may become clogged even if it is not used for a long time.

[0006] This application provides a liquid ejection device comprising a body, wherein a printhead and a suction assembly are disposed within the body, the suction assembly comprising a first sealing part, a suction part, and a driving part, the suction part being connected to the first sealing part; the body having a suction area, the printhead being movable to the suction area along a first direction, and the driving part being capable of driving the first sealing part to move to the suction area; in the suction area, a sealed space is formed between the first sealing part and the printhead, and the suction part is capable of suctioning the printhead.

[0007] In one specific embodiment, the first sealing part includes: a sealing body and a movable frame, the sealing body being connected to the movable frame, and the driving part being connected to the movable frame; the driving part is capable of driving the movable frame to move along a second direction, so as to drive the sealing body to move closer to or further away from the printhead along a third direction.

[0008] In one specific embodiment, one of the sealing body and the movable frame is provided with a first guide groove, and the other is provided with a first guide post, the first guide post being slidably connected to the first guide groove; along the direction in which the first guide groove extends in the second direction, the position of the first guide groove changes in the third direction, so that the sealing body moves relative to the movable frame in the second direction while moving in the third direction.

[0009] In one specific embodiment, the body has a first baffle, and when the sealing body abuts against the first baffle, the driving unit drives the first guide post to slide relative to the first guide groove.

[0010] In one specific embodiment, a first elastic element is provided between the sealing body and the movable frame, and the first elastic element is compressed when the first sealing part enters the suction area.

[0011] In one specific embodiment, the sealing body includes a sealing cover and a mounting bracket, the mounting bracket being connected to the movable bracket, and the sealing cover being disposed on the side of the mounting bracket away from the movable bracket; the sealing cover is movable relative to the mounting bracket in the third direction.

[0012] In one specific embodiment, a second elastic element is provided between the sealing cap and the mounting bracket, and the second elastic element is compressed when the first sealing part enters the suction area.

[0013] In one specific embodiment, one of the sealing cover and the mounting bracket is provided with a second guide groove, and the other is provided with a second guide post, the second guide post being slidably connected to the second guide groove.

[0014] In one specific embodiment, the sealing cap has a hook, the mounting bracket has a snap-fit ​​block, and the hook engages with the snap-fit ​​block.

[0015] In one specific embodiment, the suction part is connected to the first sealing part via a suction tube. The mounting bracket has a fixing recess and a first through hole. The suction tube is fixed by the fixing recess and extends from the side of the mounting bracket away from the sealing cover to the first through hole, passing through the first through hole and connecting to the sealing cover.

[0016] In one specific embodiment, the driving unit includes: a drive motor, a transmission rod, and a moving component. The drive motor is capable of driving the transmission rod to rotate, and the moving component is threadedly connected to the transmission rod. The movable frame has a first mounting groove, and the moving component is mounted in the first mounting groove. When the transmission rod rotates, the moving component drives the movable frame to move along the transmission rod.

[0017] In one specific embodiment, the transmission rod is provided with a limiting protrusion; The moving component is provided with a limiting block, which can abut against the limiting protrusion to limit the range of motion of the moving component relative to the transmission rod.

[0018] In one specific embodiment, one of the movable frame and the body is provided with a third guide groove, and the other is provided with a third guide post, wherein the third guide post is slidably connected to the third guide groove.

[0019] In one specific implementation, a waste ink collection area is provided below the suction area, and when viewed from a third-party perspective, the waste ink collection area at least partially overlaps with the suction area.

[0020] In one specific embodiment, the suction part is connected to the first sealing part via a suction tube, and the suction part includes: Waste liquid collection device for containing waste liquid; A suction pump has a waste liquid inlet and a waste liquid outlet, and the suction pipe is connected to the waste liquid inlet; The connecting pipe has one end connected to the waste liquid outlet and the other end extending into the waste liquid collection device.

[0021] In one specific embodiment, the waste liquid collection component includes a chamber body and a chamber cover, wherein the chamber cover is provided with a fixing groove, which can fix the suction pipe.

[0022] This application provides a control method for a liquid ejection device, used in the aforementioned liquid ejection device, the control method comprising: The liquid ejection device issues a first command, and based on the first command, controls the drive unit to rotate forward so as to drive the first sealing part to move to the suction area; The suction unit is controlled to suction the print head.

[0023] In one specific implementation, after the step of controlling the suction section to suction the print head, the control method includes: The liquid ejection device issues a second command, and based on the second command, controls the drive unit to reverse so as to drive the first sealing part away from the suction area.

[0024] In one specific implementation, before the liquid ejection device issues a second command, the control method includes: Determine whether the time for the suction unit to suction the print head is greater than or equal to a third preset time, or determine whether the number of times the suction unit suctions the print head is greater than or equal to a preset number; If so, the liquid ejection device issues a second command; If not, the suction section continues to suction the print head.

[0025] In one specific implementation, after the liquid ejection device issues a second command, the control method includes: The suction unit is controlled to draw in the first sealing part.

[0026] In one specific implementation, before the liquid ejection device issues a first command, the control method includes: Determine whether the liquid ejection device meets the suction conditions; If so, the liquid ejection device issues a first command; The suction conditions include one or more of the following: the liquid ejection device receiving a user instruction, the liquid ejection device completing a printing task, the ink cartridge being installed into the machine body for the first time, and the liquid ejection device being in a non-printing state for a period of time greater than a fourth preset time.

[0027] In one specific implementation, the control method includes: When the liquid ejection device is powered on, it issues a second command, and based on the second command, controls the drive unit to reverse so as to drive the first sealing part away from the suction area.

[0028] In this application, the suction section draws ink from the printhead, ensuring that there is little or no residual ink on the printhead. This prevents ink from solidifying and clogging the printhead even after a prolonged period without printing. Because a sealed space is formed between the first sealing section and the printhead during suction, the drawn-out ink will not splash onto other structures within the machine. The degree of sealing between the first sealing section and the printhead is sufficient to allow the suction section to draw ink from the printhead while preventing ink from splashing outside the suction assembly.

[0029] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the liquid ejection device provided in this application in a specific embodiment; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A structural diagram of the ink cartridge and suction assembly in the image; Figure 3 for Figure 2 A structural diagram of the ink cartridge and printhead in the image; Figure 4 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first sealing part and the driving part in the middle; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the sealing body and the print head in conjunction; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the mobile frame; Figure 7 for Figure 1 A structural diagram of part of the main body and part of the suction components; Figure 8 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of part of the main body and part of the suction components in another state; Figure 9 for Figure 7 A structural diagram of part of the main body and part of the suction components in another state; Figure 10 for Figure 5 Exploded view of the sealed body in the middle; Figure 11 for Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the sealing body in the middle; Figure 12 for Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the sealing cap structure; Figure 13 for Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the mounting bracket in the diagram; Figure 14 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the drive unit in the middle; Figure 15 for Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the drive unit in another state; Figure 16 for Figure 15 A magnified view of a portion of region I; Figure 17 for Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the moving parts in the diagram; Figure 18 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the suction section and part of the suction tube; Figure 19 for Figure 18 Exploded view of the suction section in the middle; Figure 20 A flowchart of the control method for the liquid ejection device provided in this application.

[0031] Figure label: 1-The body; 11-First baffle; 12-Second baffle; 13-Third guide groove; 2-Ink cartridge; 21 - Box body; 22-Print head; 3-First sealing part; 31-Sealing cap; 311 - Second mounting slot; 311a - Fixed Post; 311b - Second through hole; 312 - Second guide post; 313-Hook; 32-Mounting bracket; 321 - First guide post; 322 - Second guide groove; 323-Card Connector; 324-Fixed recess; 325 - First through hole; 33-Mobile stand; 331 - First guide groove; 332 - First mounting slot; 333 - Third guide post; 34 - First elastic element; 35 - Second elastic element; 36-Sponge; 4-Suction section; 41-Waste liquid collection component; 411-Storage Body; 411a - Waste Liquid Storage Tank; 411b - Mounting plate; 411c - Snap-fit ​​protrusion; 412-Store cover; 412a - Third through hole; 412b-fixed convex portion; 412c- snap-in recess; 413-Fixing slot; 42 - Suction pump; 421 - Waste liquid inlet; 422 - Waste liquid outlet; 43-Connecting pipe; 44-Ink Absorbent Cotton; 5-Pipette; 6-Drive unit; 61 - Drive motor; 62-Drive rod; 621 - Limiting protrusion; 63-Moving parts; 631-Limit Block; 7-Second sealing part; 8-Storage Department.

[0032] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments in this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0035] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0036] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0037] It should be noted that the directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" described in the embodiments of this application are used to describe the angles shown in the accompanying drawings and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. Furthermore, in the context, it should be understood that when it is mentioned that an element is connected "upper" or "lower" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower," or indirectly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower" through an intermediate element.

[0038] This application provides a liquid ejection device, such as... Figure 1 As shown, for ease of description, the length direction of the liquid ejection device is defined as the first direction X, the width direction as the second direction Y, and the height direction as the third direction Z. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are all mutually perpendicular. It can be understood that in other embodiments, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z may not be mutually perpendicular.

[0039] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the liquid ejection device has a body 1, within which an ink cartridge 2 and a printhead 22 are disposed. The ink cartridge 2 includes a housing 21, which stores ink. The printhead 22 is located at the bottom of the housing 21, and ink is supplied to the printhead 22 and ejected onto the printing medium. As the printhead 22 moves relative to the body 1 along a first direction X, the ink ejected by the printhead 22 forms the image to be printed on the printing medium.

[0040] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the machine body 1 also includes a suction assembly, which comprises a first sealing part 3, a suction part 4, and a driving part 6. The suction part 4 is connected to the first sealing part 3. The machine body 1 has a suction area, and the print head 22 can move to the suction area along the first direction X. The driving part 6 can drive the first sealing part 3 to move to the suction area. In the suction area, a sealed space is formed between the first sealing part 3 and the print head 22, and the suction part 4 can suction the print head 22. For example, the suction part 4 and the first sealing part 3 are connected by a suction tube 5.

[0041] The suction unit 4 suctions the print head 22, ensuring that there is no residual ink or very little residual ink on the print head 22. This prevents ink from solidifying and clogging the print head 22 even when no printing is performed for an extended period of time.

[0042] Since a sealed space is formed between the first sealing part 3 and the print head 22 when the suction part 4 suctions the print head 22, the suctioned ink will not splash onto other structures inside the body 1. The degree of sealing of the sealed space between the first sealing part 3 and the print head 22 is sufficient to allow the suction part 4 to suction the print head 22 and prevent ink from splashing outside the suction assembly.

[0043] Specifically, in order for the print head 22 to enter the suction area, the range of motion of the print head 22 overlaps with that of the suction area; that is, when viewed along the first direction X, the suction area always overlaps with the print head 22. When both the print head 22 and the first sealing part 3 are located within the suction area, the first sealing part 3 is located below the print head 22 along the third direction Z.

[0044] More specifically, when the liquid ejection device is performing a printing task, the drive unit 6 can drive the first sealing part 3 away from the suction area to prevent the first sealing part 3 from affecting the print head 22 in performing the printing task.

[0045] In addition, a moisturizing component is provided inside the body 1. The moisturizing component includes a second sealing part 7 and a storage part 8. The second sealing part 7 can also form a sealed space with the printhead 22. The storage part 8 stores moisturizing liquid, which can be supplied to the second sealing part 7 to keep the printhead 22 moist and prevent residual ink on the printhead 22 from solidifying and clogging it. Along the first direction X, the suction component and the moisturizing component are spaced apart on both sides of the body 1 to effectively utilize the space on both sides of the body 1, making the internal structure of the body 1 more concentrated, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the liquid ejection device.

[0046] In one specific implementation, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first sealing part 3 includes a sealing body and a movable frame 33. The sealing body is connected to the movable frame 33, and the driving part 6 is connected to the movable frame 33. The movable frame 33 can support the sealing body and protect it.

[0047] The drive unit 6 can drive the moving frame 33 to move along the second direction Y, so as to move the sealing body closer to or away from the print head 22 along the third direction Z. As the sealing body enters the suction area under the action of the moving frame 33, the sealing body gradually approaches the print head 22 along the third direction Z, and finally comes into contact with the print head 22, forming a sealed space between the two; as the sealing body leaves the suction area under the action of the moving frame 33, the sealing body moves away from the print head 22 along the third direction Z, so that the sealing body can move away from the print head 22 from below it, preventing the two from interfering with each other and affecting each other's movement.

[0048] Specifically, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, one of the sealing body and the movable frame 33 is provided with a first guide groove 331, and the other is provided with a first guide post 321. The first guide post 321 is slidably connected to the first guide groove 331.

[0049] For example, the sealing body is provided with first guide posts 321, and the movable frame 33 is provided with first guide grooves 331. There are four first guide posts 321, with two spaced apart on one side of the sealing body and two spaced apart on the other side. There are also four first guide grooves 331, with the four first guide grooves 331 corresponding to the four first guide posts 321.

[0050] The first guide post 321 can only slide along the first guide groove 331, which determines the movement path of the sealing body relative to the moving frame 33, thereby making the sealing body move to the bottom of the print head 22 and dock with the print head 22 with high accuracy.

[0051] Along the direction in which the first guide groove 331 extends in the second direction Y, the position of the first guide groove 331 changes in the third direction Z, so that the sealing body moves relative to the moving frame 33 in the second direction Y while moving in the third direction Z.

[0052] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first guide groove 331 is in the shape of an arc, and the center of the arc is located on the side of the arc away from the suction area, so that the sealing body can rise and approach the print head 22 when entering the suction area, and can descend and move away from the print head 22 when leaving the suction area.

[0053] More specifically, such as Figures 7-9 As shown, the body 1 has a first baffle 11. When the sealing body moves along the second direction Y with the moving frame 33, the sealing body will abut against the first baffle 11, and the first baffle 11 will prevent the sealing body from continuing to move along the second direction Y. At this time, the drive unit 6 continues to drive the moving frame 33 to move along the second direction Y, and the sealing body and the moving frame 33 will move relative to each other along the second direction Y, so that the first guide post 321 slides along the first guide groove 331, causing the sealing body to move along the second direction Y while moving along the third direction Z.

[0054] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the movable frame 33 is shaped like a scoop and has a bottom wall and three side walls. When the sealing body is outside the suction area, a portion of the sealing body protrudes from the movable frame 33 from the position where the side walls are not provided; as the sealing body enters the suction area, the degree to which the sealing body protrudes from the movable frame 33 decreases.

[0055] More specifically, such as Figure 10 As shown, a first elastic element 34 is provided between the sealing body and the movable frame 33. When the first sealing part 3 enters the suction area, under the action of the first baffle 11, the degree to which the sealing body protrudes from the movable frame 33 decreases, and the first elastic element 34 is compressed. When the first sealing part 3 leaves the suction area, under the action of the restoring force of the first elastic element 34, the degree to which the sealing body protrudes from the movable frame 33 increases, that is, the sealing body moves relative to the movable frame 33 along the second direction Y and descends in the third direction Z.

[0056] For example, the first elastic element 34 can be a tension spring, with one end connected to the sealing body and the other end connected to the movable frame 33.

[0057] Furthermore, such as Figure 10As shown, the sealing body includes a sealing cover 31 and a mounting bracket 32. The mounting bracket 32 ​​is connected to the movable bracket 33. The sealing cover 31 is located on the side of the mounting bracket 32 ​​away from the movable bracket 33. The sealing cover 31 can move relative to the mounting bracket 32 ​​in the third direction Z, so that the sealing cover 31 can engage with the print head 22 at multiple height positions, thereby reducing the difficulty of engaging the sealing cover 31 with the print head 22 and preventing excessive force between the sealing cover 31 and the print head 22 from damaging the sealing cover 31 or the print head 22.

[0058] Specifically, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, a second elastic element 35 is provided between the sealing cover 31 and the mounting bracket 32. When the first sealing part 3 enters the suction area, the sealing cover 31 contacts the print head 22, and the print head 22 presses the sealing cover 31, causing the sealing cover 31 to descend along the third direction Z. During this process, the second elastic element 35 is compressed. When the first sealing part 3 leaves the suction area, the sealing cover 31 separates from the print head 22, and the sealing cover 31 rises along the third direction Z under the restoring force of the second elastic element 35.

[0059] For example, the second elastic element 35 can be a spring, compression spring, etc. One end of the second elastic element 35 abuts against the sealing cover 31, and the other end abuts against the mounting bracket 32. The bottom of the sealing cover 31 may be provided with a first annular protrusion, and one end of the second elastic element 35 is sleeved on the outside of the first annular protrusion, thereby restricting the position of the second elastic element 35 and preventing the second elastic element 35 from falling off.

[0060] More specifically, such as Figure 5 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, one of the sealing cover 31 and the mounting bracket 32 ​​is provided with a second guide groove 322, and the other is provided with a second guide post 312. The second guide post 312 is slidably connected to the second guide groove 322.

[0061] For example, the sealing cover 31 is provided with a second guide post 312, and the mounting bracket 32 ​​is provided with a second guide groove 322. There are two second guide posts 312, which are respectively provided on both sides of the sealing cover 31. There are also two second guide grooves 322, which are provided corresponding to the two second guide posts 312.

[0062] The second guide post 312 can only slide along the second guide groove 322, which determines the movement path of the sealing cover 31 relative to the mounting bracket 32, thereby making the sealing cover 31 and the print head 22 more accurately dock.

[0063] For example, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, the sealing cover 31 is provided with a second mounting groove 311, and a sponge 36 is placed inside the second mounting groove 311. The sponge can absorb the ink remaining in the second mounting groove 311. The second mounting groove 311 is provided with a fixing post 311a and a second through hole 311b. The fixing post 311a can fix the sponge 36 to ensure the installation stability of the sponge 36. The second through hole 311b can communicate with the suction tube 5 so that the suction tube 5 can draw ink from the print head 22 connected to the sealing cover 31.

[0064] More specifically, such as Figure 5 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the sealing cover 31 has a hook 313, and the mounting bracket 32 ​​has a snap-fit ​​block 323, with the hook 313 snapping into the snap-fit ​​block 323.

[0065] When the print head 22 presses the sealing cover 31 down along the third direction Z, the hook 313 and the locking block 323 disengage; when the sealing cover 31 rises along the third direction Z under the restoring force of the second elastic member 35, the hook 313 and the locking block form a locking, thereby preventing the sealing cover 31 from separating from the mounting bracket 32.

[0066] For example, the sealing cover 31 has four hooks 313, with two hooks 313 located on one side of the sealing cover 31 and two hooks 313 located on the other side of the sealing cover 31, and the snap-fit ​​blocks 323 on the mounting bracket 32 ​​are provided corresponding to the hooks 313.

[0067] Furthermore, such as Figure 11 and Figure 13 As shown, the mounting bracket 32 ​​has a fixing recess 324 and a first through hole 325. The suction tube 5 is fixed by the fixing recess 324 and extends from the side of the mounting bracket 32 ​​away from the sealing cover 31 to the first through hole 325, and passes through the first through hole 325 to connect with the sealing cover 31.

[0068] The fixed recess 324 can restrict the movement of the suction tube 5 and prevent the suction tube 5 from moving randomly and causing abnormal noise.

[0069] For example, the first through hole 325 is located below the second through hole 311b, and the second elastic member 35 is located on the outer periphery of the suction tube 5. The bottom of the sealing cap 31 may be provided with an extended second annular protrusion, and the suction tube 5 can be sleeved on the second annular protrusion to communicate with the second through hole 311b. The second annular protrusion is located inside the first annular protrusion and protrudes relative to the first annular protrusion.

[0070] In one specific implementation, such as Figure 14 and Figure 15As shown, the drive unit 6 includes a drive motor 61, a transmission rod 62, and a moving member 63. The drive motor 61 can drive the transmission rod 62 to rotate, and the moving member 63 is threadedly connected to the transmission rod 62. When the drive motor 61 drives the transmission rod 62 to rotate clockwise, the moving member 63 moves away from the drive motor 61 along the second direction Y; when the drive motor 61 drives the transmission rod 62 to rotate counterclockwise, the moving member 63 moves towards the drive motor 61 along the second direction Y.

[0071] like Figure 6 As shown, the movable frame 33 has a first mounting groove 332, and the moving part 63 is mounted in the first mounting groove 332. When the transmission rod 62 rotates, the moving part 63 drives the movable frame 33 to move along the transmission rod 62. That is, when the transmission rod 62 rotates forward, the movable frame 33 moves away from the drive motor 61, driving the sealing body into the suction area; when the transmission rod 62 rotates in reverse, the movable frame 33 moves closer to the drive motor 61, driving the sealing body away from the suction area.

[0072] Specifically, such as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the transmission rod 62 is provided with a limiting protrusion 621, and the moving part 63 is provided with a limiting block 631. The limiting block 631 can abut against the limiting protrusion 621 to limit the movement range of the moving part 63 relative to the transmission rod 62, thereby limiting the movement range of the moving frame 33.

[0073] For example, both ends of the transmission rod 62 are provided with limiting protrusions 621. Correspondingly, both surfaces of the moving member 63 facing the ends of the transmission rod 62 are also provided with limiting blocks 631. The limiting protrusions 621 closer to the drive motor 61 cooperate with the limiting blocks 631, and the limiting protrusions 621 farther from the drive motor 61 cooperate with the limiting blocks 631. It can be understood that the limiting protrusions 621 may also be provided only at the end of the transmission rod 62 away from the drive motor 61, and the limiting blocks 631 may also be provided only on the surface of the moving member 63 away from the drive motor 61.

[0074] More specifically, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, one of the movable frame 33 and the body 1 is provided with a third guide groove 13, and the other is provided with a third guide post 333. The third guide post 333 is slidably connected to the third guide groove 13. The third guide post 333 can only slide along the third guide groove 13, so that the movement path of the movable frame 33 relative to the body 1 is determined.

[0075] For example, the movable frame 33 is provided with a third guide post 333, and the body 1 is provided with a third guide groove 13. The third guide post 333 is provided on both sides of the movable frame 33, and correspondingly, the third guide groove 13 is also provided on both sides of the movable frame 33.

[0076] For example, there are four third guide posts 333, with two spaced apart on one side of the movable frame 33 and two spaced apart on the other side. There are two third guide grooves 13, with two third guide posts 333 located on the same side of the movable frame 33 slidably connected to the same third guide groove 13.

[0077] In one specific implementation, such as Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the suction unit 4 includes: a waste liquid collection component 41, a suction pump 42, and a connecting pipe 43. The waste liquid collection component 41 is used to contain waste liquid. The suction pump 42 has a waste liquid inlet 421 and a waste liquid outlet 422. The suction pipe 5 is connected to the waste liquid inlet 421. One end of the connecting pipe 43 is connected to the waste liquid outlet 422, and the other end extends into the waste liquid collection component 41.

[0078] The suction pump 42 draws the waste ink from the printhead 22 into the suction tube 5. The waste ink enters the waste liquid inlet 421 along the suction tube, then enters the waste liquid outlet 422, and finally enters the waste liquid collection unit 41 for storage.

[0079] Specifically, such as Figure 19 As shown, the waste liquid collection component 41 includes: a chamber body 411 and a chamber cover 412. The chamber cover 412 is provided with a fixing groove 413, which can fix the suction pipe 5 to restrict the movement of the suction pipe 5 and prevent the suction pipe 5 from moving randomly and causing abnormal noise.

[0080] For example, a waste liquid tank 411a is provided between the tank body 411 and the tank cover 412. The tank cover 412 is provided with a third through hole 412a and a fixing protrusion 412b. The connecting pipe 43 can communicate with the waste liquid tank 411a through the third through hole 412a, and the suction pump 42 can be fixed to the tank cover 412 through the fixing protrusion 412b. An ink-absorbing cotton 44 is provided inside the waste liquid tank 411a, which can absorb and retain waste ink.

[0081] For example, the container 411 has a mounting plate 411b, which is connected to the body 1 by a connector, so that the waste liquid collection component 41 can be installed on the body 1.

[0082] For example, the compartment body 411 has a snap-fit ​​protrusion 411c and the compartment cover 412 has a snap-fit ​​recess 412c. The snap-fit ​​protrusion 411c and the snap-fit ​​recess 412c snap together, so that the compartment cover 412 and the compartment body 411 are reliably connected.

[0083] In the above embodiments, a waste ink collection area is provided below the suction area. When the printhead 22 enters the suction area but the suction component does not, the printhead 22 can flash-spray waste ink into the waste ink collection area. To ensure that the waste ink flashed by the printhead 22 can enter the waste ink collection area, when viewed from a third-party perspective (Z), the waste ink collection area and the suction area at least partially overlap.

[0084] This application also provides a control method for a liquid ejection device, used in the liquid ejection device. For example... Figure 20 As shown, the control method includes: S1: The liquid ejection device issues a first command, and based on the first command, controls the drive unit 6 to rotate forward, thereby driving the first sealing part 3 to move to the suction area. Specifically, the time for controlling the drive unit 6 to rotate forward is a first preset time.

[0085] In this step, by controlling the forward rotation time of the drive unit 6, the first sealing unit 3 is positioned precisely in the suction area. The first preset time is set according to the actual situation.

[0086] S2: Control the suction section 4 to suction the print head 22.

[0087] In this step, the suction pump 42 is controlled to suction the printhead 22.

[0088] Furthermore, in step S2: after controlling the suction unit 4 to suction the print head 22, the control method includes: S3: The liquid ejection device issues a second command, and based on the second command, controls the drive unit 6 to reverse, so as to drive the first sealing part 3 away from the suction area. Specifically, the time for controlling the drive unit 6 to reverse is a second preset time.

[0089] In this step, by controlling the reversal time of the drive unit 6, the first sealing part 3 is completely removed from the suction area, preventing the first sealing part 3 from interfering with the print head 22 and affecting the liquid ejection device's printing task. The second preset time is set according to actual conditions.

[0090] For example, the liquid ejection device is provided with a control unit, which can issue and execute first and second commands to control the drive unit 6 and the suction pump 42 and other structures.

[0091] Specifically, before the liquid ejection device issues the second command in step S3, the control method includes: S4: Determine whether suction section 4 has completed suction.

[0092] In this step, the judgment can be made by whether the time for the suction unit 4 to suction the print head 22 is greater than or equal to a third preset time, or by whether the number of times the suction unit 4 suctions the print head 22 is greater than or equal to a preset number. The third preset time and the preset number of times are set according to the actual situation.

[0093] If so, the liquid ejection device issues a second command, the suction pump 42 stops suctioning the print head 22, and the first sealing part 3 leaves the suction area.

[0094] Preferably, after the first sealing part 3 leaves the suction area, the print head 22 moves relative to the body 1 along the first direction X to above the second sealing part 7, and a sealed space is formed between the second sealing part 7 and the print head 22 to achieve moisture retention of the print head 22.

[0095] If not, the suction section 4 continues to suction the print head 22.

[0096] More specifically, before step S1: the liquid ejection device issues the first command, the control method includes: S5: Determine whether the liquid ejection device meets the suction conditions.

[0097] If so, the liquid ejection device issues the first command.

[0098] In this step, the suction conditions include one or more of the following: the liquid ejection device receives a user instruction, the liquid ejection device completes the printing task, the ink cartridge 2 is installed into the machine body 1 for the first time, and the liquid ejection device is in a non-printing state for a period of time greater than a fourth preset time.

[0099] For example, after the liquid ejection device completes a printing task, the liquid ejection device is in a non-printing state. At this time, the control unit determines that the liquid ejection device meets the suction conditions.

[0100] For example, when the liquid ejection device receives a user instruction (an instruction to suction the print head 22) and the liquid ejection device is in a non-printing state, the control unit determines that the liquid ejection device meets the suction conditions.

[0101] For example, the liquid ejection device includes a cartridge type and an ink tank type. The cartridge type liquid ejection device has a removable cartridge 2 installed inside the body 1. When the ink in the cartridge 2 is used up, a new cartridge 2 is replaced. The ink tank type liquid ejection device includes a cartridge 2 and an ink tank. The ink tank is connected to the cartridge 2 through a continuous ink supply line, which can continuously replenish the ink in the cartridge 2. When the ink in the ink tank is used up, the ink tank is replaced or the ink in the ink tank is replenished.

[0102] For cartridge-type liquid ejection devices, when the ink cartridge 2 is first installed into the machine body 1, the control unit determines that the liquid ejection device meets the suction conditions and performs suction on the print head 22 so that the ink in the ink cartridge 2 can be smoothly supplied to the print head 22.

[0103] In existing ink tank-type liquid ink ejection devices, after the ink cartridge 2 is initially installed into the printer body 1, the user needs to use a special tool (a manual pump similar to a syringe) to cover the printhead 22 and then operate the tool to draw ink from the printhead 22 to establish a continuous ink supply system between the ink cartridge 2 and the ink tank. Because this operation is relatively cumbersome and different users have different manual operation methods, it is very easy to fail to establish a continuous ink supply system.

[0104] For ink tank type liquid ejection device, when ink cartridge 2 is first installed into the machine body 1, the control unit determines that the liquid ejection device meets the suction conditions and suctions the print head 22 so that the ink in the ink tank fills the continuous supply line, establishing a continuous supply between ink cartridge 2 and ink tank. It has the advantages of convenient operation and high success rate of establishing continuous supply.

[0105] For example, if the liquid ejection device is in a non-printing state for a period of time longer than a fourth preset time, the control unit determines that the liquid ejection device meets the suction conditions. The fourth preset time can be set based on experience.

[0106] Furthermore, in step S3: after the liquid ejection device issues the second command, the control method includes: S6: Control the suction section 4 to suction the first sealing section 3.

[0107] In this step, by suctioning the first sealing part 3 after it leaves the suction area, the ink remaining in the sealing cap 31 and the suction tube 5 can be drawn into the waste liquid collection member 41, preventing the ink remaining in the sealing cap 31 and the suction tube 5 from flowing back and contaminating the first sealing part 3.

[0108] In addition, the control method also includes: when the liquid ejection device is powered on, the liquid ejection device issues a second command, and based on the second command, controls the drive unit 6 to reverse the second preset time to drive the first sealing part 3 away from the suction area, thereby avoiding printing when the first sealing part 3 is in the suction area.

[0109] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A liquid ejection device, characterized in that, The liquid ejection device has a body (1), and the body (1) is provided with a print head (22) and a suction assembly. The suction assembly includes a first sealing part (3), a suction part (4) and a drive part (6). The suction part (4) is connected to the first sealing part (3). The body (1) has a suction area, the print head (22) can move to the suction area along the first direction (X), and the drive unit (6) can drive the first sealing part (3) to move to the suction area; In the suction area, a sealed space is formed between the first sealing part (3) and the print head (22), and the suction part (4) is able to suction the print head (22).

2. The liquid ejection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first sealing part (3) includes: a sealing body and a movable frame (33), wherein the sealing body is connected to the movable frame (33) and the driving part (6) is connected to the movable frame (33); The drive unit (6) can drive the moving frame (33) to move along the second direction (Y) so as to move the sealing body closer to or away from the print head (22) along the third direction (Z).

3. The liquid ejection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, One of the sealing body and the movable frame (33) is provided with a first guide groove (331), and the other is provided with a first guide post (321). The first guide post (321) is slidably connected to the first guide groove (331). Along the direction in which the first guide groove (331) extends in the second direction (Y), the position of the first guide groove (331) changes in the third direction (Z) so that the sealing body moves relative to the moving frame (33) in the second direction (Y) while moving in the third direction (Z).

4. The liquid ejection device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The body (1) has a first baffle (11). When the sealing body abuts against the first baffle (11), the driving part (6) drives the first guide post (321) to slide relative to the first guide groove (331).

5. The liquid ejection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, A first elastic element (34) is provided between the sealing body and the movable frame (33). When the first sealing part (3) enters the suction area, the first elastic element (34) is compressed.

6. The liquid ejection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing body includes a sealing cover (31) and a mounting bracket (32), the mounting bracket (32) being connected to the movable bracket (33), and the sealing cover (31) being disposed on the side of the mounting bracket (32) away from the movable bracket (33); The sealing cap (31) is movable relative to the mounting bracket (32) in the third direction (Z).

7. The liquid ejection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, A second elastic element (35) is provided between the sealing cap (31) and the mounting bracket (32). When the first sealing part (3) enters the suction area, the second elastic element (35) is compressed.

8. The liquid ejection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, One of the sealing cover (31) and the mounting bracket (32) is provided with a second guide groove (322), and the other is provided with a second guide post (312), the second guide post (312) being slidably connected to the second guide groove (322).

9. The liquid ejection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The sealing cap (31) has a hook (313), and the mounting bracket (32) has a snap-fit ​​block (323), the hook (313) snaps into the snap-fit ​​block (323).

10. The liquid ejection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The suction part (4) is connected to the first sealing part (3) through the suction tube (5). The mounting bracket (32) has a fixing recess (324) and a first through hole (325). The suction tube (5) is fixed by the fixing recess (324) and extends from the side of the mounting bracket (32) away from the sealing cover (31) to the first through hole (325), and passes through the first through hole (325) to connect with the sealing cover (31).

11. The liquid ejection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The drive unit (6) includes: a drive motor (61), a transmission rod (62) and a moving part (63). The drive motor (61) can drive the transmission rod (62) to rotate, and the moving part (63) is threadedly connected to the transmission rod (62). The movable frame (33) has a first mounting groove (332), and the moving part (63) is mounted in the first mounting groove (332). When the transmission rod (62) rotates, the moving part (63) drives the movable frame (33) to move along the transmission rod (62).

12. The liquid ejection device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The transmission rod (62) is provided with a limit protrusion (621). The moving part (63) is provided with a limiting block (631), which can abut against the limiting protrusion (621) to limit the range of motion of the moving part (63) relative to the transmission rod (62).

13. The liquid ejection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, One of the movable frame (33) and the body (1) is provided with a third guide groove (13), and the other is provided with a third guide post (333). The third guide post (333) is slidably connected to the third guide groove (13).

14. The liquid ejection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Below the suction area is a waste ink collection area, which, when viewed from a third-party (Z) perspective, at least partially overlaps with the suction area.

15. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1-14, characterized in that, The suction part (4) is connected to the first sealing part (3) via a suction tube (5), and the suction part (4) includes: Waste liquid collection unit (41) is used to contain waste liquid; The suction pump (42) has a waste liquid inlet (421) and a waste liquid outlet (422), and the suction pipe (5) is connected to the waste liquid inlet (421); The connecting pipe (43) is connected at one end to the waste liquid outlet (422) and at the other end extends into the waste liquid collection device (41).

16. The liquid ejection device according to claim 15, characterized in that, The waste liquid collection component (41) includes a chamber body (411) and a chamber cover (412). The chamber cover (412) is provided with a fixing groove (413), which can fix the suction pipe (5).

17. A control method for a liquid ejection device, characterized in that, The control method for the liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1-16 includes: The liquid ejection device issues a first command, and based on the first command, controls the drive unit (6) to rotate forward so as to drive the first sealing unit (3) to move to the suction area; Control the suction unit (4) to suction the print head (22).

18. The control method for the liquid ejection device according to claim 17, characterized in that, Step: After controlling the suction unit (4) to suction the print head (22), the control method includes: The liquid ejection device issues a second command, and based on the second command, controls the drive unit (6) to reverse so as to drive the first sealing part (3) away from the suction area.

19. The control method for the liquid ejection device according to claim 18, characterized in that, Step: Before the liquid ejection device issues the second command, the control method includes: Determine whether the time for the suction unit (4) to suction the print head (22) is greater than or equal to a third preset time, or determine whether the number of times the suction unit (4) suctions the print head (22) is greater than or equal to a preset number; If so, the liquid ejection device issues a second command; If not, the suction section (4) continues to suction the print head (22).

20. The control method for the liquid ejection device according to claim 18, characterized in that, Step: After the liquid ejection device issues a second command, the control method includes: Control the suction part (4) to suction the first sealing part (3).

21. The control method for the liquid ejection device according to claim 17, characterized in that, Step: Before the liquid ejection device issues the first command, the control method includes: Determine whether the liquid ejection device meets the suction conditions; If so, the liquid ejection device issues a first command; The suction conditions include one or more of the following: the liquid ejection device receiving a user instruction, the liquid ejection device completing a printing task, the ink cartridge (2) being installed into the machine body (1) for the first time, and the liquid ejection device being in a non-printing state for a period of time greater than a fourth preset time.

22. The control method for the liquid ejection device according to claim 17, characterized in that, The control method includes: When the liquid ejection device is powered on, the liquid ejection device issues a second command, and based on the second command, controls the drive unit (6) to reverse so as to drive the first sealing part (3) to leave the suction area.

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