Recording device

Abstract

The present invention provides a recording device for improving operating efficiency. The recording device (1) is characterized by comprising: a conveyor belt having an adhesive layer capable of adhering to fabric and conveying the fabric adhered to the adhesive layer; a recording unit that sprays pigment ink onto the conveyed fabric for recording; a coating unit that applies a first cleaning liquid having the property of causing the adhesive layer to swell onto the adhesive layer; and a cleaning mechanism disposed in front of the coating unit in the traveling direction of the conveyor belt and cleaning the adhesive layer using a second cleaning liquid that does not have the aforementioned property.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Previously, recording devices were known to spray liquids such as ink onto media such as paper or cloth for printing. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a recording device comprising a conveyor belt for conveying cloth as a recording medium and a cleaning unit for cleaning the conveyor belt.

[0003] However, the apparatus described in Patent Document 1 suffers from the problem of difficulty in improving operating efficiency. Specifically, if pigments are used in the color material of the ink, pigment-containing components sometimes adhere to the surface of the conveyor belt, forming a pigment film. This pigment film is difficult to remove using cleaning solutions such as water or surfactants, and the apparatus described above does not disclose a unit for removing the pigment film. Removing the grown pigment film requires maintenance work, which may increase the downtime of the apparatus. Therefore, there is a need for a recording apparatus that can reduce downtime caused by maintenance work and other such activities to improve operating efficiency.

[0004] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-155179. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A recording device is characterized by comprising: a conveyor belt having an adhesive layer capable of adhering fabric to which the fabric is adhered, and conveying the fabric adhered to the adhesive layer; a recording unit that sprays pigment ink onto the conveyed fabric for recording; a coating unit that applies a first cleaning liquid having the property of causing the adhesive layer to swell onto the adhesive layer; and a cleaning mechanism disposed in front of the coating unit in the travel direction of the conveyor belt, and cleaning the adhesive layer using a second cleaning liquid that does not have the aforementioned property. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the recording device involved in the embodiment.

[0007] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the coating section and the cleaning mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0008] In the embodiments described below, a recording device 1 for digital printing on fabrics will be illustrated and explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the application of the recording device of the present invention is not limited to printing.

[0009] In the following figures, mutually orthogonal coordinate axes, namely the XYZ axes, are labeled, and the direction indicated by each arrow is designated as the "+" direction, and the direction opposite to the "+" direction is designated as the "-" direction. When the recording device 1 is placed on a horizontal surface such as a floor, the -Z direction becomes the vertical direction. Sometimes the +Z direction is referred to as "up" and the -Z direction as "down." For ease of illustration, the sizes of the various components differ from their actual dimensions.

[0010] The fabric, used as a recording medium, is unrolled from the raw material roll and dyed. On the transport path of the fabric, which is then rolled into a cylinder, the side of the raw material roll is sometimes referred to as upstream, and the side of the fabric that is being rolled up is sometimes referred to as downstream. Furthermore, the direction in which the fabric is transported from upstream to downstream is defined as the transport direction.

[0011] like Figure 1 As shown, the recording device 1 according to this embodiment includes a control unit 5, a media conveying unit 2, a recording unit 60, a drying unit 70, a winding unit 40, an operation panel 80, a coating unit 110, a cleaning mechanism 120, and a detection unit 130. The recording device 1 also includes a housing (not shown). Each structure of the recording device 1 is supported by a frame F.

[0012] The recording device 1 causes pigments, inks, etc., to adhere to the fabric P, thereby forming images such as pictures, photographs, text, and patterns on the fabric P to create printed materials. (Regarding...) Figure 1 Unless otherwise specified, the description is assumed to describe the state observed from the -X direction.

[0013] The control unit 5 is electrically connected to each structure of the recording device 1 and provides unified control over the operation of each structure. Although details will be described later, the control unit 5 specifically manages the control related to the coating unit 110 and the cleaning mechanism 120.

[0014] The control unit 5 includes hardware such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), or RAM (Random Access Memory). The control unit 5 executes a predetermined control program via the CPU. The ROM is a non-volatile storage device that stores the control program executed by the CPU and the data processed by the control program. The RAM constitutes the CPU's working area. The CPU expands the control program read from the ROM, etc., into the RAM and executes the expanded control program.

[0015] The operation panel 80 is also electrically connected to the control unit 5. The operation panel 80 receives various information from the user of the recording device 1, as well as inputs of various operations or settings performed by the user. The control unit 5 also controls the recording device 1 based on the information input to the operation panel 80. In the following description, the user of the recording device 1 will be referred to simply as the user.

[0016] The operation panel 80 is supported by the frame F via a component not shown and is positioned above the recording device 1 at its +Y end. The user stands in the +Y direction of the recording device 1 and performs various inputs while looking at the operation panel 80. The operation panel 80 is, for example, a touch-panel liquid crystal display. In addition to a display device such as a liquid crystal display, the operation panel 80 may also have a sound-emitting device and physical buttons. The operation panel 80 is an example of the notification unit of the present invention.

[0017] The media conveying unit 2 includes a media supply unit 10, conveying rollers 21, 22, 23, and 24, a conveying mechanism 30, and a winding unit 40. The media conveying unit 2 conveys the fabric P along a conveying path from upstream to downstream.

[0018] The media supply unit 10 includes a supply shaft 11, a bearing 12, and a rotation drive unit (not shown). The supply shaft 11 is generally cylindrical and holds the core of the raw material roll of fabric P. The bearing 12 supports both ends of the supply shaft 11 in a detachable and rotatable manner along the X-axis.

[0019] The rotary drive unit is, for example, an electric motor, which drives the supply shaft 11 to rotate. By rotating the supply shaft 11 and the conveying mechanism 30 (described later) with rotating rollers 32, the fabric P is unwound from the raw material roll and fed downstream.

[0020] Fabric P is conveyed from the medium supply unit 10 through the conveyor roller 21, and at the conveyor roller 22 the conveying direction is changed to approximately the +Y direction. Fabric P is then handed over to the conveying mechanism 30 from approximately the -Y direction.

[0021] Fibers used as raw materials for fabric P include, for example, natural fibers such as cotton, silk, hemp, sea caltrop, wool, and cashmere; regenerated fibers such as rayon and cupro fiber; and synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, and polyurethane, which are made into single yarns, double yarns, or blends. Fabric P is made by processing the above fibers into woven or non-woven fabrics. In order to improve the various properties of fabric products made from printed and dyed fabric P, fabric P can also be pre-processed.

[0022] The conveying mechanism 30 includes rotating rollers 31 and 32, a conveyor belt 33, and a pressing part 50.

[0023] The conveyor belt 33 is positioned between the conveyor rollers 22 and 23 and conveys the fabric P. The conveyor belt 33 is a seamless belt and is mounted on a belt-rotating roller network 31 and 32 in an area opposite the recording unit 60 in the vertical direction. The conveyor belt 33 has an outer peripheral surface 33a and an inner peripheral surface 33b. The outer peripheral surface 33a and the inner peripheral surface 33b are in a face-to-back relationship. The fabric P can be placed on the outer peripheral surface 33a.

[0024] The conveyor belt 33 has an adhesive layer (not shown) on its outer peripheral surface 33a. The adhesive layer has adhesive force on the fabric P, thereby enabling the fabric P to be adhered. The adhesive layer is arranged to span the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface 33a. With the fabric P adhered to the adhesive layer, the conveyor belt 33 is driven to rotate counterclockwise by belt rollers 31 and 32. As a result, the fabric P is conveyed in the conveying direction. The conveying direction of the fabric P in the conveyor belt 33 is the +Y direction.

[0025] Along the X-axis, the width of the conveyor belt 33 is wider than the width of the fabric P. The direction intersecting the conveying direction is defined as the width direction of the conveyor belt 33. In this embodiment, the width direction of the conveyor belt 33 is the direction along the X-axis. Hereinafter, the width direction of the conveyor belt 33 will sometimes be simply referred to as the width direction.

[0026] The rotating rollers 31 and 32 are generally cylindrical rotating components and are arranged in pairs. The rotating rollers 31 and 32 are each capable of rotating along a rotation axis along the X-axis. The rotating rollers 31 and 32 are arranged opposite each other in the direction along the Y-axis. The rotating roller 31 is located upstream of the conveying mechanism 30 and is positioned near the conveyor roller 22 in the +Y direction. The rotating roller 32 is located downstream of the conveying mechanism 30 and is positioned near the conveyor roller 23 in the -Y direction. A support member for supporting the conveyor belt 33 may also be arranged between the rotating rollers 31 and 32.

[0027] The belt rotating roller 31 is a driven roller that rotates counterclockwise by transmitting the rotation of the belt rotating roller 32 via the conveyor belt 33. The belt rotating roller 31 is supported in a rotatable manner on a roller support member (not shown).

[0028] The rotating roller 32 is driven to rotate counterclockwise by a conveyor drive motor (not shown). The conveyor drive motor is controlled by the control unit 5. The rotating roller 32 is supported on the roller support 39 in a rotatable manner.

[0029] The fabric P is transferred from the conveyor roller 22 to the conveyor mechanism 30 and is placed on the outer peripheral surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 above the rotating roller 31. At this time, the fabric P may not be in close contact with the outer peripheral surface 33a.

[0030] The outer peripheral surface 33a supports the fabric P from below. The inner peripheral surface 33b contacts the belt rotating roller 31 and the belt rotating roller 32. The conveyor belt 33 is driven to rotate by the friction between the inner peripheral surface 33b and the belt rotating roller 32. The belt rotating roller 31 is driven by the friction between the inner peripheral surface 33b and the belt rotating roller 31.

[0031] Along the X-axis, which is the width direction, the width of the adhesive layer on the outer peripheral surface 33a is approximately equal to the width of the conveyor belt 33. The path of the conveyor belt 33 from the belt rotating roller 31 to the belt rotating roller 32 is the conveying path of the fabric P. The path of the conveyor belt 33 folding back at the belt rotating roller 32 to the belt rotating roller 31 is designated as the non-conveyoring path. The outer peripheral surface 33a faces upward in the conveying path and downward in the non-conveyoring path.

[0032] The adhesive layer on the outer peripheral surface 33a adheres the fabric P tightly through adhesive force. The adhesive layer may contain adhesive materials with adhesive properties, such as silicone resin, acrylic resin, or polyurethane resin. In the recording apparatus 1, acrylic resin is used as the substrate for the adhesive layer. Examples of known acrylic resins include polybutylene acrylate.

[0033] The pressing section 50 is positioned near the rotating roller 31 in the +Y direction. The pressing section 50 includes a pressing roller 51, a pair of support sections 53, a heating section 54, and a pair of drive sections (not shown). The pressing section 50 presses the fabric P against the adhesive layer of the conveyor belt 33, thereby adhering the fabric P to the adhesive layer.

[0034] The pressing roller 51 is a generally cylindrical rotating component. The axis of rotation for the pressing roller 51 is along the X-axis and it is positioned above the conveyor belt 33. Support portions 53 are respectively disposed at both ends of the pressing roller 51 along the X-axis. The pressing roller 51 is rotatably supported by a pair of support portions 53. The pair of support portions 53 are each supported on a drive unit. Along the X-axis, the length of the pressing roller 51 is approximately equal to the width of the conveyor belt 33.

[0035] One side of the drive unit is further positioned in the -X direction relative to the support portion 53 that supports the end of the pressure roller 51 in the -X direction. The other side of the drive unit is further positioned in the +X direction relative to the support portion 53 that supports the end of the pressure roller 51 in the +X direction.

[0036] A pair of drive units, via a lifting drive motor (not shown), support a pair of support units 53 while moving vertically. Therefore, the pressing roller 51 can be displaced vertically while being supported by the support units 53. This allows adjustment of the pressing force exerted by the pressing roller 51 on the adhesive layer of the outer peripheral surface 33a onto the fabric P.

[0037] Although not shown in the diagram, the pair of drive units, driven by the guide components and the motor, support the pair of support units 53 while also reciprocating along the Y-axis. Therefore, the pressing roller 51 can be supported by the support units 53 and reciprocate along the Y-axis.

[0038] The heating element 54 heats the conveyor belt 33. The heating element 54 is positioned below the conveyor belt 33, relative to the pressing roller 51. The upper surface of the heating element 54 is generally planar and contacts the lower inner circumferential surface 33b of the conveyor belt 33 along the conveying path. The distance of the heating element 54 along the Y-axis is approximately equal to the distance the pressing roller 51 travels reciprocally in both the conveying direction and the reverse conveying direction. The distance of the heating element 54 along the X-axis is approximately equal to the length of the conveyor belt 33 in the width direction.

[0039] The heating element 54 is, for example, an electric heater. Heating by the heating element 54 heats the adhesive layer on the outer peripheral surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33. Heating increases the softness of the adhesive layer, thereby increasing its adhesion to the fabric P. The heating temperature achieved by the heating element 54 is, for example, 35°C or higher and 60°C or lower on the surface above the heating element 54.

[0040] In the pressing section 50, fabric P is placed on the surface above the heating section 54 via the conveyor belt 33. The heating section 54 heats the conveyor belt 33, and the pressing roller 51 presses the fabric P onto the adhesive layer from above. In parallel with this, the pressing roller 51 rotates and reciprocates in the +Y and -Y directions. The fabric P and the conveyor belt 33 are pressed together between the surface above the heating section 54 and the pressing roller 51, thus pressing the fabric P tightly against the outer peripheral surface 33a. The fabric P passes through the pressing section 50 and is conveyed in the +Y direction while being tightly pressed against the conveyor belt 33. Alternatively, the pressing roller 51 can be used to heat the conveyor belt 33 instead of the heating section 54. Furthermore, depending on the type of fabric P or the characteristics of the adhesive layer, the heating section 54 may be omitted.

[0041] As a structure in which the pressing roller 51 has the function of heating the conveyor belt 33, the following heating roller types can be listed. The heating roller type has a support plate with a shape that is approximately the same as that of the heating section 54, a heating roller with a shape that is the same as that of the pressing roller 51, a pair of support sections 53, and a pair of drive sections. That is, the heating roller type performs the same operation as the pressing section 50, except that the heating roller undertakes the heating function of the heating section 54.

[0042] The recording unit 60 is located approximately at the midpoint of the conveyor belt 33 along the Y-axis, facing the outer peripheral surface 33a and the fabric P vertically. The recording unit 60 ejects pigment ink or the like onto the fabric P being conveyed by the conveyor belt 33, thus recording the process. This printing process is performed on the fabric P. The recording unit 60 includes an ejection section 61 (which serves as an inkjet head), a carriage 62, and a guide rail 63.

[0043] The guide rail 63 is a structural component extending along the X-axis and is positioned above the conveyor mechanism 30. The guide rail 63 supports the carriage 62 in a manner that allows it to move along the X-axis. The carriage 62, supported by the guide rail 63, reciprocates along the X-axis via a carriage drive motor (not shown). The ejector 61 is mounted below the carriage 62 and reciprocates along the X-axis with the carriage 62 relative to the conveyor belt 33.

[0044] The ejector section 61 ejects pigment inks and functional liquids, etc., onto the fabric P, which is placed on the outer peripheral surface 33a and conveyed, causing them to adhere. The ejector section 61 has a nozzle surface (not shown) facing downwards. The nozzle surface is opposed to the conveyor belt 33 and the fabric P in the vertical direction. Multiple nozzle rows are arranged on the nozzle surface. Each of the multiple nozzle rows consists of multiple nozzles. Each of the multiple nozzle rows ejects individually onto the fabric P various pigment inks and functional liquids, such as blue-green, magenta, yellow, black, etc. Examples of pigment inks include water-based inks and non-water-based inks. In this embodiment, water-based pigment inks are used.

[0045] In the ejection section 61, a piezoelectric element is used as a drive unit, i.e., an actuator. The drive unit is not limited to this. For example, an electromechanical conversion element that displaces the vibrating plate that acts as an actuator by electrostatic adsorption, or an electrothermal conversion element that ejects ink in the form of droplets by bubbles generated by heating, may also be used in the drive unit.

[0046] Although the illustration is omitted, pigment ink and functional liquid are supplied from the ink tank to the ejection section 61 via ink piping. The pigment ink and functional liquid ejected from the ejection section 61 adhere to the upward-facing surface of the fabric P.

[0047] While the ejector unit 61 reciprocates along the X-axis, the fabric P is conveyed in the +Y direction via the conveyor belt 33. At this time, pigments, inks, etc., are applied to the fabric P from the ejector unit 61 at predetermined timings. As a result, a desired image is formed on the fabric P.

[0048] The functional liquid is specifically a softener or pretreatment liquid. The spraying of the functional liquid onto the fabric P is set to be simultaneous with or pre- and post-arrival of the spraying of the pigment ink.

[0049] Fabric softeners improve the hand feel of printed fabrics (P) when they are processed into clothing or other textile products. There are no particular limitations on the type of softener used; any known softener can be applied. However, if the softener contains cationic components, it may sometimes react with components of the pigment ink to form aggregates. Therefore, it is preferable to avoid contact or mixing between the softener and the pigment ink.

[0050] The pretreatment solution has the function of causing pigments or resins in pigment inks to agglomerate on the surface of fabric P, thereby improving the color development of the printed material. There are no particular limitations on the type of pretreatment solution used; any known treatment agent can be applied. Since the pretreatment solution causes pigment agglomeration, it is preferable, in addition to its intended purpose, to avoid contact or mixing between the pretreatment solution and the pigment ink.

[0051] As functional liquids, other functional liquids besides softeners and pretreatment liquids can also be used. Examples of other functional liquids include coating liquids that improve the abrasion resistance or wash fastness of the printed fabric P, and penetrating liquids that assist the penetration of pigment inks into the fabric P.

[0052] In the ejection section 61, pre-ejection is performed before ejecting pigment ink and functional liquid onto the fabric P, and during the ejection interval. Pre-ejection is performed to prevent the drying or adhesion of pigment ink or functional liquid at the gas-liquid interface within each nozzle of the ejection section 61, and to prevent color mixing after cleaning the nozzles. The implementation of pre-ejection is controlled by the control section 5. The timing, time interval, and amount of pigment ink and functional liquid used for pre-ejection are appropriately set according to the type and characteristics of the pigment ink and functional liquid.

[0053] The printed fabric P is further conveyed in the +Y direction from the position opposite to the recording section 60. Then, the fabric P is peeled off from the conveyor belt 33 approximately above the rotating roller 32 and handed over to the conveyor roller 23 downstream of the rotating roller 32.

[0054] The conveyor belt 33 folds back from the conveying path to the non-conveying path at the rotating roller 32, and travels in the -Y direction with its outer peripheral surface 33a facing downward. That is, in the non-conveying path, the conveyor belt 33 travels in the -Y direction.

[0055] Because an adhesive layer is disposed on the outer peripheral surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33, and the fabric P is conveyed while adhering tightly to the adhesive layer, dirt such as pigment ink, loose threads of the fabric P, or foreign objects can easily adhere to the adhesive layer. If the dirt on the adhesive layer is significant, the fabric P may become soiled when the conveyor belt 33 rotates around and comes into contact with the unprinted fabric P again. In addition, the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer may be reduced due to dirt.

[0056] In particular, sometimes a portion of the pigment ink and functional liquid can pass through the fabric P to the adhesive layer and form a pigment film on the surface of the adhesive layer. Furthermore, to improve the fixing properties of the fabric P, fixing resin is often added to the pigment ink. Therefore, a pigment film can sometimes easily form in the adhesive layer. Additionally, if a pretreatment liquid is used as a functional liquid, it can sometimes promote the aggregation of pigments, thereby advancing the formation of the pigment film.

[0057] When the formation of the pigment film or the adhesion of dirt becomes significant, the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer may decrease, thus hindering the transport of the fabric P. In such cases, maintenance operations such as re-adhesive layer re-application or replacement of the conveyor belt 33 will be performed. Since maintenance operations such as re-adhesive layer re-application are performed by stopping the operation of the recording device 1, they become a major cause of the reduced operating rate of the recording device 1. To address this, the recording device 1 is a device that removes dirt from the adhesive layer by means of the coating section 110 and the cleaning mechanism 120, thereby reducing the frequency of maintenance operations.

[0058] The coating section 110 and the cleaning mechanism 120 are positioned below the conveyor belt 33 in the non-conveying path. The cleaning mechanism 120 is positioned in front of the coating section 110 in the direction of travel of the conveyor belt 33. Details regarding the structure and function of the coating section 110 and the cleaning mechanism 120 will be described later.

[0059] The detection unit 130 is positioned on the non-conveying path of the conveyor belt 33, between the cleaning mechanism 120 and the belt rotating roller 31. The detection unit 130 detects the adhesive force of the adhesive layer on the conveyor belt 33. The detection unit 130 is electrically connected to the control unit 5. The information on the adhesive force of the adhesive layer detected by the detection unit 130 is sent to the control unit 5. Through the detection unit 130, the adhesive force of the adhesive layer can be monitored; in other words, the contamination status of the adhesive layer can be monitored.

[0060] As the detection unit 130, a known adhesive force measuring device can be used. The configuration of the detection unit 130 is not limited to between the washing mechanism 120 and the rotating roller 31. Furthermore, the detection unit of the present invention is not limited to an adhesive force measuring device. For example, the detection unit of the present invention may also be a mechanism that calculates the adhesive force based on the peeling angle of the fabric P peeled off at the rotating roller 32. Alternatively, the detection unit of the present invention may also be a mechanism that calculates the adhesive force based on the rotational resistance of the conveying drive motor that drives the rotating roller 32.

[0061] The conveyor belt 33 folds back from the non-conveyor path to the conveyor path at the rotating roller 31, and moves in the +Y direction with its outer peripheral surface 33a facing upward. In this way, the conveyor belt 33 rotates counterclockwise.

[0062] The conveyor roller 23 peels the printed fabric P from the conveyor belt 33. The fabric P peeled from the conveyor belt 33 is conveyed in a generally +Y direction, and the conveying direction is changed to generally downward at the conveyor roller 23. The conveyor rollers 23 and 24 relay the fabric P to the take-up section 40.

[0063] A drying section 70 is disposed between conveyor rollers 23 and 24. The drying section 70 dries the pigment ink and functional liquid adhering to the fabric P. The drying section 70 includes, for example, an infrared heater. The infrared rays emitted by the infrared heater cause the volatile components contained in the pigment ink and functional liquid adhering to the fabric P to evaporate. As a result, the droplets of pigment ink or functional liquid dry, allowing the fabric P to be wound up by the winding section 40. The fabric P advances towards the winding section 40 via the conveyor rollers 24.

[0064] The take-up section 40 is located downstream and below the conveyor roller 24. The take-up section 40 recovers the printed fabric P, i.e., the printed material. The take-up section 40 includes a take-up shaft 41, a bearing section 42, and a rotary drive section (not shown). The take-up shaft 41 is generally cylindrical and winds the printed material into a roll. The bearing section 42 rotatably supports both ends of the take-up shaft 41 along the X-axis. Furthermore, the take-up shaft 41 can be attached to and detached relative to the bearing section 42. The rotary drive section rotates the take-up shaft 41 counterclockwise. By rotating the take-up shaft 41, the printed material is wound up. Thus, the printed material is produced by the recording device 1.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, the coating section 110 and the cleaning mechanism 120 are positioned below the conveyor belt 33, which is not on the conveying path, and are vertically opposed to the adhesive layer Ad on the outer peripheral surface 33a. Figure 2In the diagram, a dashed line is used to indicate the conveyor belt 33 that is not on the conveying path. On the non-conveyor path, the conveyor belt 33 travels in the -Y direction.

[0066] The coating unit 110 and the cleaning mechanism 120 are arranged along the Y-axis. The coating unit 110 is located in the +Y direction relative to the cleaning mechanism 120. Thus, the conveyor belt 33, on the non-conveyor path, sequentially passes first the position corresponding to the coating unit 110, and then the position corresponding to the cleaning mechanism 120. The coating unit 110 applies a first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer Ad. The cleaning mechanism 120 uses a second cleaning solution to clean the adhesive layer Ad.

[0067] The coating unit 110 includes a coating component 111, a first cleaning fluid tank 113, and a dispensing unit 117. The first cleaning fluid tank 113 is equipped with a storage tank 112, a liquid level sensor 114, a first supply unit 115, a first displacement unit 116, and a circulation mechanism 118. The first supply unit 115 is an example of the supply unit of the present invention.

[0068] The first cleaning fluid tank 113 is a bathtub-shaped structure with an open top, used to store and apply the first cleaning fluid to the coating member 111. The first cleaning fluid tank 113 is positioned below the coating member 111. The first cleaning fluid accumulates at the bottom of the first cleaning fluid tank 113. A portion of the lower part of the coating member 111 is impregnated by the first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank 113. Along the X-axis, the width of the first cleaning fluid tank 113 is greater than the width of the coating member 111.

[0069] The first cleaning solution has the property of causing the adhesive layer Ad to swell. The first cleaning solution is, for example, an organic solvent, and is selected according to the material of the adhesive layer Ad or the type of pigment ink used in the recording device 1. Because the first cleaning solution causes the adhesive layer Ad to swell, the pigment film or dirt adhering to the surface of the adhesive layer Ad is lifted and easily removed.

[0070] Preferably, the first cleaning solution does not dissolve the adhesive layer Ad. That is, preferably, the first cleaning solution is a substance with relatively low solubility relative to the resin that forms the substrate of the adhesive layer Ad. By making the first cleaning solution have low solubility, the deterioration of the adhesive layer Ad can be suppressed.

[0071] Although not specifically limited to being the first cleaning solution, examples include (2-methoxyethoxy)propanol (also known as dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether), 2-butoxyethanol, ethoxylated propoxylated alcohol (C=16-18), 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, and (R)-4-isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohex-1-ene, among other alcohol or glycol ether organic solvents. In addition to the aforementioned organic solvents, the first cleaning solution may also contain additives such as water or defoamers.

[0072] Preferably, the first cleaning solution does not contain surfactants. This suppresses foaming caused by the first cleaning solution.

[0073] The storage tank 112 serves as a supply source for the first cleaning fluid and as a liquid storage container for holding the first cleaning fluid. The storage tank 112 is, for example, a resin tank. The storage tank 112 has a lid (not shown), which allows the first cleaning fluid to be replenished into the storage tank 112 by opening the lid. Closing the lid seals the storage tank 112.

[0074] Since the user only needs to replenish the first cleaning fluid to the storage tank 112, the convenience for the user is improved. In addition, since the storage tank 112 functions as a buffer tank, the first cleaning fluid can be replenished to the storage tank 112 while the first cleaning fluid is consumed by the coating section 110.

[0075] The first supply unit 115 supplies first cleaning fluid from the storage tank 112 to the first cleaning fluid tank 113. The first supply unit 115 includes a pump 115a, an on / off switch 115b, and a supply pipe 115c. The interior of the storage tank 112 and the interior of the first cleaning fluid tank 113 are connected via the supply pipe 115c. The pump 115a is positioned near the storage tank 112, and the on / off switch 115b is positioned near the first cleaning fluid tank 113, along the supply pipe 115c. The first cleaning fluid flows through the supply pipe 115c in the order of storage tank 112, pump 115a, and on / off switch 115b.

[0076] The liquid delivery pump 115a delivers the first cleaning fluid contained in the storage tank 112 to the opening and closing part 115b. A known liquid pump can be used in the liquid delivery pump 115a.

[0077] The opening and closing unit 115b changes the supply amount of the first cleaning fluid to the first cleaning fluid tank 113. The opening and closing unit 115b sends the first cleaning fluid with the adjusted supply amount to the first cleaning fluid tank 113 through the supply pipe 115c.

[0078] The valve (not shown) within the opening / closing section 115b can be adjusted to freely change its opening degree between fully open and fully closed. The opening degree of the valve in the opening / closing section 115b is controlled by the control unit 5 described above. That is, the control unit 5 controls the opening / closing section 115b, thereby adjusting the supply amount of the first cleaning fluid to the first cleaning fluid tank 113. This improves user convenience compared to the case where the user manually adjusts the supply amount. A known valve mechanism, such as a solenoid valve, can be used in the valve of the opening / closing section 115b.

[0079] The supply pipe 115c is connected to the side wall of the first cleaning fluid tank 113 in the +Y direction. The first cleaning fluid accumulates at the bottom of the first cleaning fluid tank 113 along the side wall in the +Y direction. Furthermore, the configuration of each structure of the first supply section 115 described above is an example and is not limited to the above situation.

[0080] The regulating section 117 regulates the volume of the first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank 113. The regulating section 117 is disposed at the bottom of the first cleaning fluid tank 113 in the -Y direction. The regulating section 117 is a plate-shaped partition. The regulating section 117 protrudes upward from the bottom of the first cleaning fluid tank 113 along the XZ plane. The first cleaning fluid is stored in the area defined by the side wall and bottom of the first cleaning fluid tank 113 and the regulating section 117.

[0081] exist Figure 2 In the image, the area described above is set as a diagonal shaded line. Figure 2 The first cleaning fluid is at level Lv, which is the fluid level when the first cleaning fluid is fully filled in the first cleaning fluid tank 113, provided that the coating component 111 is immersed in the first cleaning fluid tank 113. When more first cleaning fluid is supplied from the state where the first cleaning fluid is at level Lv, the first cleaning fluid overflows in the -Y direction, passing over the pre-determined section 117. The overflowing cleaning fluid is discharged to the outside of the coating component 110 through the discharge mechanism (not shown). The first cleaning fluid discharged from the discharge mechanism can be recovered to a discharge tank or the like, or it can be recycled for reuse.

[0082] Liquid level sensor 114 detects the height of the liquid level of the first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank 113, i.e., the amount stored. Liquid level sensor 114 is a known contact or non-contact liquid level sensor. The liquid level sensor 114 detects the vertical position of the liquid level, including the liquid level Lv, i.e., the amount of the first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank 113. Liquid level sensor 114 is electrically connected to the control unit 5 described above. Here, in the following description, the amount of the first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank 113 will be simply referred to as the amount stored in the first cleaning fluid tank 113.

[0083] Information on the amount of cleaning fluid in the first cleaning fluid tank 113 detected by the liquid level sensor 114 is sent to the control unit 5. The control unit 5 can control the first supply unit 115 and the circulation mechanism 118 (described later) to adjust the amount of cleaning fluid in the first cleaning fluid tank 113.

[0084] When the coating section 110 is operated to apply the first cleaning fluid to the adhesive layer Ad, the amount of the first cleaning fluid tank 113 is preferably set to an amount that prevents the first cleaning fluid from overflowing, and more preferably set to a level Lv. By operating the coating section 110 without causing the first cleaning fluid to overflow, the consumption of the first cleaning fluid can be suppressed. In addition, if there is significant pigment film or dirt adhering to the adhesive layer Ad, the coating section 110 can be operated while the first cleaning fluid is being supplied from the first supply section 115, allowing it to overflow.

[0085] The composition, or concentration, of the first cleaning solution stored in the first cleaning solution tank 113 can be adjusted by adding water or the like to the first cleaning solution in the storage tank 112. Alternatively, the first cleaning solution can be used undiluted without diluting it with water or the like.

[0086] The coating component 111 applies the first cleaning liquid from the first cleaning liquid tank 113 to the adhesive layer Ad. The coating component 111 is a generally cylindrical sponge component with its central axis along the X-axis. Along the X-axis, the width of the coating component 111 is equal to or greater than the width of the adhesive layer Ad. Although not shown in the figure, a support component and a drive motor are attached to the coating component 111. The coating component 111 is supported by the support component, and a portion of its lower part is immersed in the first cleaning liquid from the first cleaning liquid tank 113. Thus, the coating component 111 absorbs and contains the first cleaning liquid and is driven by the drive motor to rotate counterclockwise along the aforementioned central axis.

[0087] The coating component 111 rotates while contacting the adhesive layer Ad, thereby applying the first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer Ad. As described above, since the length of the coating component 111 in the X-axis direction is greater than or equal to the length of the adhesive layer Ad, the first cleaning solution is applied to the entire area of ​​the adhesive layer Ad in the width direction through the contact of the coating component 111. When the first cleaning solution is applied, the adhesive layer Ad swells, thereby causing the pigment film or dirt adhering to the adhesive layer Ad to float up and become easier to remove.

[0088] Although a sponge member in contact mode is exemplified as the coating member 111 in this embodiment, it is not limited to this. The coating part 110 can apply the first cleaning liquid to the entire area of ​​the adhesive layer Ad in the width direction by contact mode or non-contact mode. Specifically, as other contact modes, a generally cylindrical brush or the like with the same shape as the coating member 111 can also be used. As non-contact modes, spray devices and drip devices can be listed.

[0089] Furthermore, although in this embodiment the coating member 111 is applied the first cleaning fluid by immersing it in the first cleaning fluid tank 113, it is not limited to this. The first cleaning fluid may also be applied to the coating member 111 by dripping or spraying.

[0090] The circulation mechanism 118 circulates the first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank 113 for reuse. The circulation mechanism 118 is connected to the area where the first cleaning fluid is stored at the bottom of the first cleaning fluid tank 113. The circulation mechanism 118 includes a filter section 118a and a circulation section 118b. In the circulation mechanism 118, the filter section 118a is arranged first, followed by the circulation section 118b, in order of distance from the first cleaning fluid tank 113. The first cleaning fluid tank 113 is connected to the filter section 118a and the circulation section 118b via piping (not shown).

[0091] In the aforementioned piping, a valve mechanism (not shown) is attached near the first cleaning fluid tank 113. This valve mechanism switches the flow of the first cleaning fluid from the first cleaning fluid tank 113 to the circulation mechanism 118, allowing it to flow out and stop.

[0092] The filter section 118a filters the first cleaning liquid flowing into the first cleaning liquid tank 113. Due to the frictional sliding between the coating member 111 and the adhesive layer Ad, foreign matter such as pigment film or dust adhering to the adhesive layer Ad may sometimes mix into the first cleaning liquid stored in the first cleaning liquid tank 113. The filter section 118a recovers and removes these foreign matter through filtration. Known filters such as mesh or non-woven fabric can be used as the filter section 118a.

[0093] The circulation unit 118b circulates the first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank 113. Specifically, the circulation unit 118b is, for example, a known liquid delivery pump, which returns the first cleaning fluid to the storage tank 112 or the first cleaning fluid tank 113 via piping. Since the first cleaning fluid is reused through the circulation mechanism 118, the consumption of the first cleaning fluid can be reduced. Furthermore, the circulation mechanism 118 also has the function of discharging the first cleaning fluid to the outside of the coating section 110 instead of circulating it.

[0094] The first displacement section 116 modifies the contact and separation of the coating component 111 of the coating section 110 with the adhesive layer Ad of the conveyor belt 33. When the coating component 111 is in contact with the adhesive layer Ad, the first cleaning liquid is applied to the adhesive layer Ad; when the coating component 111 is separated, the first cleaning liquid is not applied to the adhesive layer Ad.

[0095] The first displacement unit 116 is disposed below the first cleaning fluid tank 113. The first displacement unit 116 is electrically connected to the control unit 5. Although not shown in the figure, the first displacement unit 116 includes a known actuator or electric motor. The first displacement unit 116 is controlled by the control unit 5 to move the first cleaning fluid tank 113 and the coating component 111, etc., in the vertical direction.

[0096] exist Figure 2 The diagram shows the coating component 111 in contact with the adhesive layer Ad. The first displacement portion 116 can move the coating component 111 downward from this state, thereby separating the coating component 111 from the adhesive layer Ad. When there is very little pigment film or dirt adhering to the adhesive layer Ad, the coating component 111 can be separated from the adhesive layer Ad, thereby suppressing the consumption of the first cleaning solution or the wear of the coating component 111.

[0097] As the conveyor belt 33 rotates, the area coated with the first cleaning fluid by the coating section 110 moves toward the cleaning mechanism 120. The adhesive layer Ad swells during the process of being coated with the first cleaning fluid and reaching the cleaning mechanism 120.

[0098] The cleaning mechanism 120 includes a cleaning component 121, a second cleaning liquid tank 123, a regulating part 127, a wiping part 131, and a wiping part 133. In addition, the second cleaning liquid tank 123 is provided with a second supply part 125, a second displacement part 126, and a discharge part 129.

[0099] Preferably, the distance between the coating portion 110 and the cleaning mechanism 120 is as far apart as possible in the direction along the Y-axis. If the distance is relatively far apart, the swelling time of the adhesive layer Ad can be ensured by the first cleaning liquid applied by the coating portion 110.

[0100] The cleaning component 121, the wiping component 131, and the wiping component 133 are positioned to abut against the adhesive layer Ad of the conveyor belt 33 and are arranged in the order described above, facing the -Y direction. The adhesive layer Ad rubs and slides against these structures in the order of the cleaning component 121, the wiping component 131, and the wiping component 133.

[0101] The second cleaning fluid tank 123 is a bathtub-shaped structure with an open top, and stores a second cleaning fluid for cleaning the adhesive layer Ad. The second cleaning fluid may sometimes contain foreign matter such as fragments of pigment film or dirt that have been transferred from the adhesive layer Ad during cleaning.

[0102] A second cleaning fluid tank 123 is disposed below the cleaning component 121. A second cleaning fluid is stored at the bottom of the second cleaning fluid tank 123. The second cleaning fluid stored in the second cleaning fluid tank 123 soaks a portion of the lower part of the cleaning component 121. Along the X-axis, the width of the second cleaning fluid tank 123 is greater than the width of the cleaning component 121.

[0103] The second cleaning solution does not have the property of causing the adhesive layer Ad to swell. The second cleaning solution is, for example, water. Examples of water include ion-exchanged water, ultrafiltered water, reverse osmosis water, distilled water, and tap water. In this embodiment, tap water is used as the second cleaning solution. The second cleaning solution may also contain additives such as bactericides. From the same viewpoint as the first cleaning solution, it is preferable that the second cleaning solution also does not contain surfactants.

[0104] The second supply unit 125 supplies second cleaning fluid to the second cleaning fluid tank 123 of the cleaning mechanism 120. The second supply unit 125 includes a pipe 125a, an opening / closing part 125b, and a supply pipe 125c. The pipe 125a, the opening / closing part 125b, and the supply pipe 125c are arranged in the order described above toward the second cleaning fluid tank 123. The second cleaning fluid flows in the second supply unit 125 in the order described above.

[0105] Pipe 125a connects to the supply source of the second cleaning fluid and the switch 125b. In this embodiment, since tap water is used as the second cleaning fluid, pipe 125a is connected to a tap water faucet, for example, via a flexible hose. Alternatively, it can be configured such that pipe 125a is connected to a container similar to the storage tank 112 and tap water or other second cleaning fluid is supplied from that container.

[0106] The opening and closing unit 125b changes the supply amount of the second cleaning fluid to the second cleaning fluid tank 123. The opening and closing unit 125b is connected to the piping 125a and the supply pipe 125c, and sends the second cleaning fluid with the adjusted supply amount to the second cleaning fluid tank 123 through the supply pipe 125c.

[0107] The valve (not shown) within the opening / closing section 125b can arbitrarily change its opening degree between fully open and fully closed. The opening degree of the valve in the opening / closing section 125b is controlled by the control unit 5 described above. That is, the control unit 5 controls the opening / closing section 125b of the second supply section 125, thereby adjusting the supply amount of the second cleaning fluid to the second cleaning fluid tank 123. The valve in the opening / closing section 125b can be the same valve mechanism as that in the opening / closing section 115b of the coating section 110.

[0108] The supply pipe 125c is connected to the opening / closing part 125b and the second cleaning fluid tank 123. The second cleaning fluid supplied from the supply pipe 125c accumulates at the bottom of the second cleaning fluid tank 123 along the side wall in the +Y direction. Furthermore, the configuration of each structure of the second supply part 125 described above is an example and is not limited to the above-described situation.

[0109] The regulating section 127 regulates the volume of the second cleaning fluid stored in the second cleaning fluid tank 123. The regulating section 127 is disposed at the bottom of the second cleaning fluid tank 123 in the -Y direction. The regulating section 127 is a plate-shaped partition member. The regulating section 127 protrudes upward from the bottom of the second cleaning fluid tank 123 along the XZ plane. The second cleaning fluid is stored in the area defined by the side wall, bottom, and regulating section 127 of the second cleaning fluid tank 123.

[0110] exist Figure 2 In the image, the area described above is set as a diagonal shaded line. Figure 2 The cleaning component 121 is partially immersed in the stored second cleaning fluid in the second cleaning fluid tank 123, and the second cleaning fluid is fully stored. When the second cleaning fluid is further supplied from this state, the second cleaning fluid overflows in the -Y direction, passing over the designated section 127. The overflowing second cleaning fluid is discharged from the discharge section 129 to the outside of the second cleaning fluid tank 123. The second cleaning fluid discharged from the discharge section 129 can also be collected in a drain tank or the like.

[0111] The second cleaning fluid tank 123 may also be equipped with a device for measuring the height of the stored second cleaning fluid, i.e., the liquid level. As such a device, the same device as the liquid volume sensor 114 of the coating section 110 can be used.

[0112] The cleaning component 121 cleans the adhesive layer Ad of the conveyor belt 33. The cleaning component 121 is a generally cylindrical brush component with its central axis along the X-axis. Along the X-axis, the width of the cleaning component 121 is equal to or greater than the width of the adhesive layer Ad. Although not shown in the figure, a support component and a drive motor are attached to the cleaning component 121. The cleaning component 121 is supported by the support component, and a portion of its lower part is immersed in the second cleaning liquid in the second cleaning liquid tank 123. Thus, the cleaning component 121 is coated with the second cleaning liquid and is driven by the drive motor to rotate counterclockwise along the aforementioned central axis.

[0113] The cleaning component 121 rotates while coated with the second cleaning fluid, contacting the adhesive layer Ad and scraping off contaminants such as pigment films. As described above, since the length of the cleaning component 121 in the X-axis direction is greater than or equal to the length of the adhesive layer Ad, the entire area of ​​the adhesive layer Ad in the width direction comes into contact with the cleaning component 121 through contact. With the adhesive layer Ad swollen and the pigment film or contaminants floating after the first cleaning fluid is applied, the adhesive layer Ad rubs and slides against the cleaning component 121. Thus, the pigment film or contaminants are scraped off and removed from the adhesive layer Ad.

[0114] Foreign matter such as pigment film or dirt is transferred from the adhesive layer Ad to the second cleaning liquid tank 123 by the rotation of the cleaning component 121. Specifically, after the cleaning component 121 rubs and slides against the adhesive layer Ad, it rotates and is immersed in the second cleaning liquid in the second cleaning liquid tank 123, thereby transferring the foreign matter wiped off the adhesive layer Ad to the second cleaning liquid tank 123 and achieving a clean state. The area on the adhesive layer Ad that rubs and slides against the cleaning component 121 is advanced towards the wiping section 131 by the rotation of the conveyor belt 33.

[0115] The wiping section 131 slides against the adhesive layer Ad, thereby scraping off the second cleaning fluid or the like adhering to the adhesive layer Ad. The wiping section 131 is a generally plate-shaped rubber component. The second cleaning fluid scraped off from the surface of the adhesive layer Ad falls downward and is discharged from the discharge section 129. By rotating the conveyor belt 33, the area on the adhesive layer Ad that slides against the wiping section 131 moves forward toward the wiping section 133.

[0116] The wiping section 133 absorbs and removes trace amounts of the second cleaning fluid or the like remaining on the adhesive layer Ad. The wiping section 133 is a generally cylindrical sponge component with its central axis along the X-axis. Multiple wiping sections 133 are arranged. Along the X-axis, the width of each wiping section 133 is shorter than the width of the adhesive layer Ad. When viewed from above, the wiping sections 133 are arranged in an alternating pattern. As the adhesive layer Ad passes through the multiple wiping sections 133, the entire area of ​​the adhesive layer Ad along the X-axis rubs and slides against any one of the wiping sections 133.

[0117] Each wiping unit 133 rotates counterclockwise via an electric motor (not shown). Due to the rotation of the conveyor belt 33, areas on the adhesive layer Ad that have rubbed and slid against the wiping unit 133 pass through the aforementioned detection unit 130 and fold back from the non-conveyor path to the conveyor path. Thus, the adhesive layer Ad on the conveyor belt 33 is cleaned.

[0118] The second displacement unit 126 alters the contact and separation of the cleaning components 121, wiping unit 131, and wiping unit 133 of the cleaning mechanism 120 with respect to the adhesive layer Ad of the conveyor belt 33. Cleaning of the adhesive layer Ad is performed when the cleaning mechanism 120 is in contact with it, and cleaning of the adhesive layer Ad is not performed when the cleaning mechanism 120 is separated from it.

[0119] The second displacement section 126 is disposed below the second cleaning fluid tank 123. The second displacement section 126 is electrically connected to the control section 5. Although not shown in the figure, the second displacement section 126 includes a known actuator or electric motor. The second displacement section 126 is controlled by the control section 5 to move the cleaning mechanism 120 in the vertical direction. The control section 5 independently controls the displacement of the first displacement section 116 and the displacement of the second displacement section 126. Thus, the coating section 110 and the cleaning mechanism 120 can be brought into contact with and separated as needed.

[0120] exist Figure 2 The diagram shows the state in which the cleaning component 121, wiping component 131, and wiping component 133 of the cleaning mechanism 120 are in contact with the adhesive layer Ad. The second shifting component 126 can move the cleaning mechanism 120 downward from the above state, thereby separating the cleaning mechanism 120 from the adhesive layer Ad. Thus, the cleaning mechanism 120 can be separated from the adhesive layer Ad when cleaning is not required.

[0121] Furthermore, during the recording operation performed by the recording device 1, the adhesive layer Ad is designed to be cleaned at least by the cleaning mechanism 120. In other words, if the adhesive layer Ad is clean, or if the adhesion of pigment film or the like to the adhesive layer Ad is so slight that there is no need to apply the first cleaning solution, the coating member 111 can be separated from the adhesive layer Ad by the first displacement part 116 even during the recording operation.

[0122] Next, the control of the coating unit 110 and the cleaning mechanism 120 implemented by the control unit 5 will be described. In the following description, reference will be made to... Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 .

[0123] During the recording operation of the recording device 1, the control unit 5 causes the coating unit 110 to apply a first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer Ad. At the same time, the control unit 5 also causes the cleaning mechanism 120 to clean the adhesive layer Ad simultaneously. Since a pigment film is formed on the adhesive layer Ad during the recording operation, the formation of the pigment film can be suppressed by applying the first cleaning solution during the recording operation.

[0124] During periods other than the recording operation performed by the recording device 1, the control unit 5 causes the application unit 110 to apply a first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer Ad. At this time, the control unit 5 also causes the cleaning mechanism 120 to clean the adhesive layer Ad simultaneously. By applying the first cleaning solution before or after the recording operation, the recording operation can begin while the adhesive layer Ad is clean.

[0125] When the level in the first cleaning fluid tank 113, detected by the liquid level sensor 114, falls below a threshold, the control unit 5 prompts the user to replenish the first cleaning fluid to the first cleaning fluid tank 113 via the operation panel 80, which serves as the notification unit. This eliminates the need for the user to manage the level in the first cleaning fluid tank 113, thus improving user convenience.

[0126] The method for notifying the storage level of a decrease implemented by the operation panel 80 may include, for example, using a warning sound, voice prompts, or text display on the LCD screen. Furthermore, the recording device 1 may include an indicator light in a housing (not shown) as a notification unit, and the decrease in storage level may be notified by illuminating the indicator light.

[0127] The control unit 5 can also control the first supply unit 115 to supply the first cleaning fluid to the first cleaning fluid tank 113 when the level detected by the liquid level sensor 114 falls below a threshold. Since the first cleaning fluid is automatically supplied to the first cleaning fluid tank 113, the convenience for the user is improved.

[0128] If Figure 2 If the retention capacity of the first cleaning fluid tank 113 shown is set to 100%, then the threshold value of the aforementioned retention capacity is, for example, 70%.

[0129] When the adhesion strength of the adhesive layer Ad, detected by the detection unit 130, falls below a threshold, the control unit 5 causes the coating unit 110 to apply a first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer Ad, allowing the cleaning mechanism 120 to clean the adhesive layer Ad. In the adhesive layer Ad, the adhesion strength gradually decreases as pigment film formation or contamination progresses. Therefore, the first cleaning solution is automatically applied to the adhesive layer Ad based on the degree of pigment film formation or contamination. This restores the adhesion strength of the adhesive layer Ad, suppresses its deterioration, and further improves operating efficiency. Furthermore, the automatic application of the first cleaning solution based on the decrease in adhesion strength enhances user convenience.

[0130] When the adhesive force of the adhesive layer Ad, detected by the detection unit 130, falls below a threshold, the control unit 5 controls the first displacement unit 116 to bring the coating component 111 of the coating unit 110 into contact with the adhesive layer Ad on the conveyor belt 33, applies the first cleaning liquid to the adhesive layer Ad, and cleans the adhesive layer Ad using the cleaning mechanism 120. Furthermore, when the adhesive force of the adhesive layer Ad, detected by the detection unit 130, falls below a threshold, the control unit 5 controls the first displacement unit 116 to separate the coating component 111 of the coating unit 110 from the adhesive layer Ad on the conveyor belt 33, and stops the application of the first cleaning liquid to the adhesive layer Ad.

[0131] When the adhesion weakens due to pigment film formation or contamination in the adhesive layer Ad, a first cleaning solution is automatically applied to the adhesive layer Ad. Furthermore, when cleaning with the first cleaning solution restores the adhesion, the application of the first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer Ad automatically stops. This improves user convenience and reduces waste of the first cleaning solution.

[0132] If the initial adhesive force of the adhesive layer Ad is set to 100%, then the threshold of the above adhesive force is, for example, 70%.

[0133] Although the method of applying the first cleaning fluid based on the adhesive force of the adhesive layer Ad has been shown above, it is not limited to this. The application and stopping of the first cleaning fluid can also be changed by the control unit 5 according to the operating time of the recording device 1, etc. For example, the following methods can be specifically listed.

[0134] First, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the recording action, the application of the first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer Ad begins. The predetermined time is, for example, 30 minutes. Next, the application of the first cleaning solution may be stopped, for example, after 30 minutes from the start. Alternatively, the application of the first cleaning solution may continue even after 30 minutes.

[0135] In addition, regarding the start and stop of the application of the first cleaning solution, the user can choose whether to make it correspond to the adhesion force of the adhesive layer Ad or to the elapsed time at any time before, after, or during the recording action.

[0136] According to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0137] This reduces downtime caused by maintenance operations, thereby improving the operating rate of the recording device 1. Specifically, in the coating section 110, the adhesive layer Ad swells due to the first cleaning fluid, causing pigment film or dirt to float to the surface and become easier to remove. Then, the adhesive layer Ad is cleaned using the cleaning mechanism 120, removing the pigment film or dirt. Therefore, the frequency of maintenance operations such as re-adhering the adhesive layer Ad or replacing the conveyor belt 33 is reduced, thus shortening the downtime of the recording device 1. Therefore, a recording device 1 with improved operating rate can be provided.

[0138] Since the coating section 110 for applying the first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer Ad and the cleaning mechanism 120 for cleaning the adhesive layer Ad have different structures, it is easy to ensure the swelling time of the adhesive layer Ad. In addition, the concentration of the first cleaning solution stored in the first cleaning solution tank 113 is not easily changed, thus making concentration management easy.

[0139] The following describes the content derived from the implementation method.

[0140] The recording device is characterized by comprising: a conveyor belt having an adhesive layer capable of adhering fabric to it, and conveying the fabric adhered to the adhesive layer; a recording unit that sprays pigment ink onto the conveyed fabric for recording; a coating unit that applies a first cleaning liquid having the property of causing the adhesive layer to swell onto the adhesive layer; and a cleaning mechanism disposed in front of the coating unit in the direction of travel of the conveyor belt, and cleaning the adhesive layer using a second cleaning liquid that does not have the aforementioned property.

[0141] This structure reduces downtime caused by maintenance operations, thereby improving the operating rate of the recording device. Specifically, in the coating section, the adhesive layer swells due to the first cleaning fluid, causing pigment films or dirt to float to the surface and become easier to remove. Then, the adhesive layer is cleaned by a cleaning mechanism, removing the pigment films or dirt. Therefore, the frequency of maintenance operations such as re-adhesive layer re-application or conveyor belt replacement is reduced, thus shortening the downtime of the recording device. Therefore, a recording device with improved operating rate can be provided.

[0142] In the above-described recording device, when the direction intersecting the conveying direction is set as the width direction, the coating section applies the first cleaning liquid to the entire area of ​​the adhesive layer in the width direction by means of contact or non-contact.

[0143] According to this structure, since the first cleaning solution is applied without omission, it is possible to easily remove pigment film or dirt across the entire area of ​​the adhesive layer.

[0144] The recording device described above includes: a first displacement unit that changes the contact and separation of the coating unit relative to the conveyor belt; a second displacement unit that changes the contact and separation of the cleaning mechanism relative to the conveyor belt; and a control unit that independently controls the first displacement unit and the second displacement unit.

[0145] According to this structure, the coating section and the cleaning mechanism can be independently contacted or separated from the conveyor belt as needed.

[0146] In the above-mentioned recording device, the coating unit has a first cleaning liquid tank for storing the first cleaning liquid, and the control unit causes the coating unit to apply the first cleaning liquid to the adhesive layer during the recording operation.

[0147] A pigment film is formed during the recording process. Based on this structure, a first cleaning solution is applied during the recording process to perform cleaning, thereby inhibiting the formation of the pigment film.

[0148] In the above-mentioned recording device, the coating section has a first cleaning liquid tank for storing the first cleaning liquid, and the control section applies the first cleaning liquid to the adhesive layer during periods other than the recording operation.

[0149] According to this structure, by applying a first cleaning solution before or after recording the action, the recording action can be started while the adhesive layer is clean.

[0150] The recording device includes: a liquid level sensor that detects the amount of first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank; and a notification unit that, based on the condition that the amount of first cleaning fluid detected by the liquid level sensor has fallen below a threshold, prompts the control unit to replenish the first cleaning fluid to the first cleaning fluid tank.

[0151] According to this structure, users do not need to manage the amount of the first cleaning fluid tank, thereby improving user convenience.

[0152] The recording device includes: a liquid volume sensor that detects the amount of first cleaning liquid stored in a first cleaning liquid tank; a supply unit that supplies the first cleaning liquid to the first cleaning liquid tank; and a control unit that controls the supply unit to supply the first cleaning liquid to the first cleaning liquid tank when the amount of first cleaning liquid detected by the liquid volume sensor is below a threshold.

[0153] According to this structure, the convenience for the user is improved because the first cleaning fluid is automatically supplied to the first cleaning fluid tank.

[0154] The recording device described above includes a detection unit that detects the adhesive force of the adhesive layer, and a control unit that, based on the case where the adhesive force detected by the detection unit is below a threshold, causes the coating unit to apply a first cleaning liquid to the adhesive layer.

[0155] In the adhesive layer, the adhesive strength gradually decreases as pigment film formation or contamination progresses. According to this structure, a first cleaning solution is automatically applied to the adhesive layer based on the degree of pigment film formation or the level of contamination. This restores the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer Ad and inhibits its deterioration, thereby further improving operating efficiency. Furthermore, the automatic application of the first cleaning solution enhances user convenience.

[0156] The recording device described above includes: a circulation unit that circulates the first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank; and a filter unit that filters the first cleaning fluid.

[0157] The first cleaning solution for the adhesive layer may sometimes contain pigment film or dirt transferred from the adhesive layer. According to this structure, in such cases, the first cleaning solution can be filtered and recycled, thereby reusing the first cleaning solution.

[0158] The recording device described above includes a detection unit for detecting the adhesive force of the adhesive layer, and a control unit for controlling a first displacement unit when the adhesive force detected by the detection unit is below a threshold, so that the coating unit comes into contact with the conveyor belt and the coating of the first cleaning liquid onto the adhesive layer is performed. When the adhesive force detected by the detection unit is above the threshold, the control unit controls the first displacement unit to separate the coating unit from the conveyor belt and stop the coating of the first cleaning liquid onto the adhesive layer.

[0159] As pigment film formation or contamination progresses in the adhesive layer, the adhesive strength gradually decreases. According to this structure, when the adhesive strength decreases, i.e., pigment film formation or contamination progresses, a first cleaning solution is automatically applied to the adhesive layer. Furthermore, when the adhesive strength is restored through cleaning with the first cleaning solution, the application of the first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer automatically stops. This improves user convenience and reduces waste of the first cleaning solution.

[0160] In the aforementioned recording device, the first cleaning fluid does not contain surfactants.

[0161] According to this structure, the generation of foam caused by the first cleaning solution can be suppressed.

[0162] Symbol Explanation 1…Recording device, 5…Control unit, 33…Conveyor belt, 60…Recording unit, 80…Operation panel as notification unit, 110…Coating unit, 113…First cleaning fluid tank, 114…Liquid volume sensor, 115…First supply unit as supply unit, 116…First displacement unit, 118a…Filter unit, 118b…Circulation unit, 120…Cleaning mechanism, 126…Second displacement unit, 130…Detection unit, 130…Detection unit, Ad…Adhesive layer, P…Fabric.

Claims

1. A recording device, characterized in that, have: A conveyor belt having an adhesive layer capable of bonding fabric to it, and conveying the fabric bonded to the adhesive layer; The recording unit sprays pigment ink onto the conveyed fabric for recording. The coating section applies a first cleaning solution with properties that cause the adhesive layer to swell onto the adhesive layer; A cleaning mechanism is disposed in front of the coating section in the direction of travel of the conveyor belt, and uses a second cleaning liquid that does not have the aforementioned properties to clean the adhesive layer.

2. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein, When the direction intersecting the conveying direction of the fabric is defined as the width direction, The coating portion applies the first cleaning liquid to the entire area of ​​the adhesive layer in the width direction by means of contact or non-contact.

3. The recording device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, have: The first displacement section alters the contact and separation of the coating section relative to the conveyor belt; The second displacement section alters the contact and separation of the cleaning mechanism relative to the conveyor belt; The control unit independently controls the first displacement unit and the second displacement unit.

4. The recording device as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The coating section has a first cleaning fluid tank for storing the first cleaning fluid. During the recording operation, the control unit causes the coating unit to apply the first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer.

5. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The coating section has a first cleaning fluid tank for storing the first cleaning fluid. During periods other than the recording operation, the control unit causes the coating unit to apply the first cleaning liquid to the adhesive layer.

6. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 4 or claim 5, wherein, have: A liquid volume sensor detects the amount of the first cleaning liquid stored in the first cleaning liquid tank. Reporting Department The control unit, based on the condition that the stored amount detected by the liquid level sensor has fallen below a threshold, prompts the replenishment of the first cleaning fluid to the first cleaning fluid tank via the notification unit.

7. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 4 or claim 5, wherein, have: A liquid volume sensor detects the amount of the first cleaning liquid stored in the first cleaning liquid tank. The supply unit supplies the first cleaning solution to the first cleaning solution tank. The control unit controls the supply unit to supply the first cleaning fluid to the first cleaning fluid tank when the amount of liquid stored detected by the liquid level sensor is below a threshold.

8. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The device includes a detection unit that detects the adhesive force of the adhesive layer. The control unit, based on the detection unit's finding that the adhesive force has fallen below a threshold, causes the coating unit to apply the first cleaning solution to the adhesive layer.

9. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 4 or claim 5, wherein, have: The circulation section circulates the first cleaning fluid stored in the first cleaning fluid tank. The filter section filters the first cleaning solution.

10. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The device includes a detection unit that detects the adhesive force of the adhesive layer. The control unit controls the first displacement unit when the adhesive force detected by the detection unit is below a threshold, so that the coating unit abuts against the conveyor belt and the first cleaning liquid is applied to the adhesive layer. When the adhesive force detected by the detection unit is above the threshold, the control unit controls the first displacement unit to separate the coating unit from the conveyor belt and stop the application of the first cleaning liquid to the adhesive layer.

11. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first cleaning solution does not contain surfactants.

Images