Ink supply system with cleaning function and control method thereof

Abstract

The application relates to an ink supply system with a cleaning function and a control method thereof, and relates to the field of ink supply equipment. An ink barrel is provided with a storage cavity capable of storing ink, an ink box is provided with an ink groove capable of containing ink, a first valve group is provided with a first outlet, a first inlet, a second inlet, a third inlet, a fourth inlet for flowing in old cleaning agent and a fifth inlet for flowing in new cleaning agent, a second valve group is provided with a sixth inlet, a second outlet, a third outlet and a fourth outlet for flowing out old cleaning agent, a third valve group is provided with a seventh inlet, a fifth outlet and a sixth outlet for flowing out old cleaning agent, the storage cavity is connected with the first inlet, the second outlet and the fifth outlet respectively, the ink groove is connected with the second inlet, the third outlet and the inlet of a return ink pump respectively, the inlet of an ink supply pump is connected with the first outlet, the outlet of the ink supply pump is connected with the sixth inlet, and the outlet of the return ink pump is connected with the third inlet and the seventh inlet respectively. The application has the advantages of good cleaning effect and cleaning efficiency, reduced cleaning agent consumption and reduced cleaning cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the technical field of ink supply equipment, and specifically relates to an ink supply system with cleaning function and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] Ink supply equipment provides the required ink during the operation of ink-based printing equipment to ensure optimal printing results. After prolonged operation, ink residue or dried ink clumps can accumulate in the ink supply system, leading to clogging and decreased printing accuracy and color consistency. Therefore, cleaning the ink supply system is necessary to ensure stable printing quality and extend equipment life. During the cleaning process, cleaning agent flows into the ink cartridges via the ink supply pump, rinsing the cartridges and then carrying away ink residue before being discharged directly. However, this method has poor cleaning effectiveness and efficiency, consumes a large amount of cleaning agent, and results in high costs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention proposes an ink supply system with a cleaning function and its control method, which has excellent cleaning effect and efficiency, reduces cleaning agent consumption, and lowers cleaning costs.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an ink supply system with a cleaning function includes an ink tank, an ink cartridge, an ink supply pump, a return ink pump, a first valve group, a second valve group, and a third valve group. The ink tank has a storage cavity for storing ink, and the ink cartridge has an ink trough for receiving ink. The first valve assembly has a first outlet, a first inlet, a second inlet, a third inlet, a fourth inlet for supplying old cleaning agent, and a fifth inlet for supplying new cleaning agent; the second valve assembly has a sixth inlet, a second outlet, a third outlet, and a fourth outlet for supplying old cleaning agent; the third valve assembly has a seventh inlet, a fifth outlet, and a sixth outlet for supplying old cleaning agent. The storage cavity is connected to the first inlet, the second outlet and the fifth outlet respectively; the ink tank is connected to the second inlet, the third outlet and the inlet of the ink return pump respectively; the inlet of the ink supply pump is connected to the first outlet; the outlet of the ink supply pump is connected to the sixth inlet; and the outlet of the ink return pump is connected to the third inlet and the seventh inlet respectively.

[0005] According to the first aspect of the present invention, the ink supply system with cleaning function has at least the following beneficial effects: when the ink supply system with cleaning function needs to be cleaned, the switching and conduction actions of the first valve group, the second valve group and the third valve group are first used to sequentially connect the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump, the seventh inlet, the fifth outlet and the storage chamber through the pipeline to form a first venting pipeline. The ink tank, the second inlet, the first outlet, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the second outlet and the storage chamber are sequentially connected through the pipeline to form a second venting pipeline. At the same time, the ink supply pump and the return ink pump are started to quickly pump the remaining ink in the ink cartridge to the ink tank through the first venting pipeline and the second venting pipeline, thereby completing the ink cartridge venting work and helping to improve the cleaning efficiency.

[0006] Next, by switching on the first, second, and third valve groups, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the third outlet, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump, the third inlet, and the first outlet are sequentially connected through pipelines to form an internal circulation cleaning pipeline. Simultaneously, old cleaning agent is injected into the internal circulation cleaning pipeline through the fourth inlet, causing it to circulate along the pipeline under the operation of the ink supply and return ink pumps, and finally discharged through the fourth outlet. This ensures that the old cleaning agent carries away ink residue, completing the first cleaning process. Then, through the first... The switching and conduction actions of the valve group, the second valve group, and the third valve group, the fifth inlet, the first outlet, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the third outlet, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump, the seventh inlet, and the sixth outlet are sequentially connected through pipelines to form an external circulation cleaning pipeline. At the same time, new cleaning agent is injected into the external circulation cleaning pipeline through the fifth inlet, so that the new cleaning agent flows along the external circulation cleaning pipeline under the operation of the ink supply pump and the return ink pump, and finally flows out from the sixth outlet. This ensures that the new cleaning agent can carry away ink residues and be discharged to complete the second cleaning work and improve the cleaning effect.

[0007] After the new cleaning agent is discharged through the sixth outlet, it becomes the old cleaning agent, which can be reused in the subsequent internal circulation cleaning mode. Moreover, the ink supply system with cleaning function uses the old cleaning agent and the new cleaning agent to rinse in sequence, which can reduce the amount of cleaning agent used while ensuring good cleaning effect, thereby helping to reduce the cost of cleaning work.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ink supply system with cleaning function has sequentially executed ink cartridge emptying mode, internal circulation cleaning mode and external circulation cleaning mode. In the ink cartridge emptying mode, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the ink return pump, the seventh inlet, the fifth outlet, and the storage cavity are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a first emptying pipeline; the ink tank, the second inlet, the first outlet, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the second outlet, and the storage cavity are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a second emptying pipeline. In the internal circulation cleaning mode, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the third outlet, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump, the third inlet, and the first outlet are sequentially connected through pipelines to form an internal circulation cleaning pipeline. When the ink cartridge evacuation mode is switched to the internal circulation cleaning mode, the fourth inlet is configured to open to introduce old cleaning agent into the internal circulation cleaning pipeline. When the internal circulation cleaning mode is switched to the external circulation cleaning mode, the fourth outlet is configured to open to drain the old cleaning agent from the internal circulation cleaning pipeline. In the external circulation cleaning mode, the fifth inlet, the first outlet, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the third outlet, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the ink return pump, the seventh inlet, and the sixth outlet are sequentially connected through pipelines to form an external circulation cleaning pipeline.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ink supply system with cleaning function also has an ink supply mode. In the ink supply mode, the storage chamber, the first inlet, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the third outlet, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump, the seventh inlet, and the fifth outlet are connected end to end through pipelines to form an ink supply circulation loop.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ink supply system with cleaning function further includes a flow meter, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the ink return pump, the outlet of which is connected to the third inlet and the seventh inlet, and the fourth inlet is further configured to be turned off when the flow signal of the flow meter changes from zero to sometimes in the internal circulation cleaning mode.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the flow meter is an electromagnetic flow meter.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ink supply system with cleaning function further includes a ball-type ink viscosity control device, which has an ink inlet and an ink outlet that can be opened and closed, the ink inlet being connected to the third outlet and the ink outlet being connected to the storage cavity.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ink supply system with cleaning function further includes a fourth valve group, the fourth valve group having an eighth inlet, a seventh outlet and an eighth outlet, the ink outlet being connected to the eighth inlet, the storage cavity being connected to the seventh outlet, and the ink tank being connected to the eighth outlet; In the ink supply mode, the third outlet, the ink inlet, the ink outlet, the eighth inlet, the seventh outlet, and the storage cavity are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a first pipeline; In any of the ink cartridge emptying mode, the internal circulation cleaning mode, and the external circulation cleaning mode, the third outlet, the ink inlet, the ink outlet, the eighth inlet, the eighth outlet, and the ink tank are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a second pipeline.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ink supply system with cleaning function further includes a control unit, which is electrically connected to the ink supply pump, the ink return pump, the first valve group, the second valve group, the third valve group and the fourth valve group respectively. The control unit is configured to control the opening and closing of the ink supply pump and the ink return pump, and to control the switching conduction of the first valve group, the second valve group, the third valve group and the fourth valve group respectively.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ink supply system with cleaning function further includes a first material tank and a second material tank. The first material tank has a first cavity for storing old cleaning agent, and the second material tank has a second cavity for storing new cleaning agent. The first cavity is connected to the fourth inlet and the sixth outlet through a pipeline, and the second cavity is connected to the fifth inlet through a pipeline. And / or, the first valve assembly also has a ninth inlet for supplying inert gas; in the internal circulation cleaning mode or the external circulation cleaning mode, the ninth inlet is configured to open to supply inert gas into the internal circulation cleaning line or the external circulation cleaning line, thereby mixing the old cleaning agent or the new cleaning agent with the inert gas. And / or, the ink supply pump and the ink return pump are dual-head diaphragm pumps.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a control method for an ink supply system with a cleaning function is applied to an ink supply system with a cleaning function as described in the first aspect embodiment. The control method includes the following steps: Obtain the current operating mode of the ink supply system with cleaning function; Determine whether the current working mode is the cleaning mode; If so, then the cartridge emptying mode, the internal circulation cleaning mode, and the external circulation cleaning mode are executed sequentially. In the ink cartridge emptying mode, the ink supply pump and the ink return pump are started, and the first valve group, the second valve group, the third valve group and the fourth valve group are switched on to empty the first emptying pipeline, the second emptying pipeline and the second pipeline, so that the ink flows to the storage chamber. When the cartridge emptying mode is switched to the internal circulation cleaning mode, the first valve group, the second valve group and the third valve group are switched on to allow the old cleaning agent to enter the internal circulation cleaning pipeline and the second pipeline through the fourth inlet until the flow signal of the flow meter is available and then the fourth inlet is closed. When the internal circulation cleaning mode is switched to the external circulation cleaning mode, the second valve group is first controlled to switch on so that the old cleaning agent flows out through the fourth outlet. Then, the first valve group, the second valve group and the third valve group are controlled to switch on so that the new cleaning agent flows into the external circulation cleaning pipeline and the second pipeline through the fifth inlet and flows out through the sixth outlet.

[0017] According to the control method of the ink supply system with cleaning function according to the second aspect of the present invention, at least the following beneficial effects are: if it is determined that the current working mode of the ink supply system with cleaning function is the cleaning mode, the ink supply system with cleaning function will sequentially enter the ink cartridge emptying mode, the internal circulation cleaning mode and the external circulation cleaning mode. In cartridge emptying mode, the ink supply pump and return pump operate simultaneously to efficiently empty the ink cartridges and the ball-type ink viscosity control device, delivering the ink to the ink tank's storage chamber, reducing ink loss and shortening cartridge emptying time, thus improving cleaning efficiency. Next, switching to internal circulation cleaning mode, the old cleaning agent is introduced and the ink supply and return pumps are activated, allowing the old cleaning agent to flow in the internal and second circulation lines for internal circulation cleaning. Finally, the old cleaning agent, carrying ink residue, is discharged from the fourth outlet. Then, switching to external circulation cleaning mode, the new cleaning agent is introduced and the ink supply and return pumps are activated, causing the new cleaning agent to flow in the external circulation lines for external circulation cleaning. Finally, the new cleaning agent, carrying ink residue, is discharged from the sixth outlet. By sequentially performing internal and external circulation cleaning operations, the cleaning effect is improved, and the discharged new cleaning agent can be used as old cleaning agent in the next internal circulation cleaning operation, reducing cleaning agent consumption and thus lowering cleaning costs.

[0018] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments; Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the ink supply system with cleaning function provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the ink supply system with cleaning function provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the ink supply system with cleaning function provided in Embodiment 3 of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the ink supply system with cleaning function provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the electrical connections of the control unit provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the ink supply system with cleaning function provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] The following labels are used in the attached diagram: 110, ink tank; 120, ink supply pump; 130, ink cartridge; 140, ink return pump; 150, flow meter; 160, drop ball type ink viscosity control device; 210, first valve group; 220, second valve group; 230, third valve group; 240, fourth valve group; 310, first material tank; 320, second material tank; 410, first liquid inlet pipe; 420, second liquid inlet pipe; 430, first liquid outlet pipe; 440, second liquid outlet pipe; 450, air inlet pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0021] This section will describe in detail specific embodiments of the present invention. Preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown in the accompanying drawings. The purpose of the drawings is to supplement the textual description with graphics, so that people can intuitively and vividly understand each technical feature and overall technical solution of the present invention, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0023] In the description of this invention, the use of terms such as "a number" means one or more, with "more than" meaning two or more. Terms like "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while terms like "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. The use of terms like "first," "second," and "third" is merely for distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, the number of indicated technical features, or the sequential relationship between indicated technical features.

[0024] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly defined, terms such as "set up," "install," and "connect" should be interpreted broadly, and those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention in conjunction with the specific content of the technical solution.

[0025] Reference Figures 1 to 6 The following are several embodiments of the ink supply system with cleaning function and its control method of the present invention.

[0026] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the ink supply system with cleaning function provided in the first aspect embodiment of the present invention can be applied in ink printing equipment and is mainly responsible for ink supply. The ink supply system with cleaning function in this embodiment has the advantages of good cleaning effect, high cleaning efficiency, low cleaning agent consumption, and low cleaning cost.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the ink supply system with cleaning function includes an ink tank 110, an ink cartridge 130, an ink supply pump 120, a return pump 140, a first valve group 210, a second valve group 220, and a third valve group 230.

[0028] The ink tank 110 has a storage cavity for storing ink, and the ink cartridge 130 has an ink reservoir for holding ink. It is understood that the capacity of the ink tank 110 is greater than the capacity of the ink cartridge 130. The ink tank 110 can provide qualified ink to the ink cartridge 130, and the ink cartridge 130 can provide the ink required for printing with the ink printing equipment. In this embodiment, the ink supply pump 120 and the ink return pump 140 are dual-head diaphragm pumps, which can achieve high-efficiency ink delivery. Both the ink supply pump 120 and the ink return pump 140 have one inlet and one outlet.

[0029] The first valve assembly 210 has six valve ports: a first outlet f6, a first inlet f1, a second inlet f2, a third inlet f3, a fourth inlet f4, and a fifth inlet f5. The fourth inlet f4 is used to supply old cleaning agent, and the fifth inlet f5 is used to supply new cleaning agent. The first valve assembly 210 can be composed of multiple electric valves. Under electric control, the first valve assembly 210 can control the opening and closing of all six valve ports and, through switching actions, can cause the first outlet f6 to be connected to at least one of the first inlet f1, second inlet f2, third inlet f3, fourth inlet f4, and fifth inlet f5. The fourth inlet f4 can be connected to a first liquid inlet line 410, which allows old cleaning agent to flow through. The fifth inlet f5 can be connected to a second liquid inlet line 420, which allows new cleaning agent to flow through. Understandably, compared to new cleaning agents, old cleaning agents, having been used at least once, contain a small amount of ink and can still be used as cleaning agents for ink supply systems with cleaning functions to complete the cleaning process. New cleaning agents, after completing the cleaning process for ink supply systems with cleaning functions, become old cleaning agents.

[0030] The second valve assembly 220 has four valve ports: a sixth inlet f7, a second outlet f8, a third outlet f9, and a fourth outlet f10. The fourth outlet f10 is used to supply used cleaning agent. The second valve assembly 220 can consist of multiple electrically operated valves. Under electrical control, the second valve assembly 220 can control the opening and closing of all four valve ports and, through a switching action, can cause the sixth inlet f7 to be connected to at least one of the second outlet f8, third outlet f9, and fourth outlet f10. The fourth outlet f10 can be connected to a first liquid outlet line 430, which guides the used cleaning agent to a designated position.

[0031] The third valve assembly 230 has three valve ports: a seventh inlet (f11), a fifth outlet (f12), and a sixth outlet (f13). The sixth outlet (f13) is used to supply the old cleaning agent. The third valve assembly 230 can be composed of multiple electrically operated valves. Under electrical control, the third valve assembly 230 can control the opening and closing of all three valve ports and, through a switching action, can cause the seventh inlet (f11) to connect to either the fifth outlet (f12) or the sixth outlet (f13). The sixth outlet (f13) can be connected to a second liquid outlet line 440, which guides the old cleaning agent to the target location.

[0032] The storage chamber of the ink tank 110 is connected to the first inlet f1 of the first valve group 210, the second outlet f8 of the second valve group 220 and the fifth outlet f12 of the third valve group 230 through pipelines. The ink in the storage chamber can flow to the first inlet f1 through the pipeline under the operation of the ink supply pump 120, and the storage chamber can receive the ink flowing out from the second outlet f8 or the fifth outlet f12.

[0033] The ink reservoir of the ink cartridge 130 is connected to the second inlet f2 of the first valve group 210, the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220, and the inlet of the return ink pump 140 via pipelines. The ink in the ink reservoir can flow to the second inlet f2 through the pipeline when the ink supply pump 120 is working. The ink reservoir can receive the ink flowing out from the third outlet f9. The ink in the ink reservoir can flow to the inlet of the return ink pump 140 when the return ink pump 140 is running.

[0034] The inlet of the ink supply pump 120 is connected to the first outlet f6 of the first valve group 210 via a pipeline, and the outlet of the ink supply pump 120 is connected to the sixth inlet f7 of the second valve group 220 via a pipeline. The outlet of the return ink pump 140 is connected to the third inlet f3 of the first valve group 210 and the seventh inlet f11 of the third valve group 230 via pipelines respectively.

[0035] The ink supply system with cleaning function not only has an ink supply mode, but also sequentially executes a cartridge evacuation mode (130), an internal circulation cleaning mode, and an external circulation cleaning mode. Understandably, when the cartridge evacuation mode (130) is complete, the ink supply system with cleaning function will enter the internal circulation cleaning mode; after completing the internal circulation cleaning mode, it will enter the external circulation cleaning mode. Once the cleaning process is complete, the ink supply system with cleaning function can then resume its ink supply mode.

[0036] When the ink supply system with cleaning function is in ink supply mode, the switching action of the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220 and the third valve group 230 causes the ink tank 110 storage chamber, the first inlet f1 of the first valve group 210, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump 120, the sixth inlet f7 of the second valve group 220, the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220, the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump 140, the seventh inlet f11 of the third valve group 230 and the fifth outlet f12 of the third valve group 230 to be connected end to end through the pipeline to form an ink supply circulation loop.

[0037] Understandably, when the ink supply pump 120 and the return pump 140 are operating simultaneously, the ink in the storage chamber of the ink tank 110 can flow sequentially through the first inlet f1 and the first outlet f6 of the first valve group 210 to the interior of the ink supply pump 120 under the pumping action of the ink supply pump 120, and then flow sequentially through the sixth inlet f7 and the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220 into the ink reservoir of the ink cartridge 130 under the pumping action of the ink supply pump 120. Simultaneously, the ink in the ink reservoir of the ink cartridge 130 can flow into the interior of the return pump 140 under the pumping action of the return pump 140 to ensure sufficient ink quantity and normal ink level in the ink reservoir, and then flow sequentially through the seventh inlet f11 and the fifth outlet f12 of the third valve group 230 into the storage chamber of the ink tank 110 under the pumping action of the return pump 140, thereby achieving ink circulation. By working together with the ink supply pump 120 and the ink return pump 140, the amount of ink and the ink flow rate in the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130 can be well controlled.

[0038] When the ink supply system with cleaning function is in the ink cartridge 130 evacuation mode, the switching action of the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220 and the third valve group 230 causes the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump 140, the seventh inlet f11 of the third valve group 230, the fifth outlet f12 of the third valve group 230 and the storage chamber of the ink tank 110 to be sequentially connected through the pipeline to form a first evacuation pipeline; at the same time, the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the second inlet f2 of the first valve group 210, the first outlet f6 of the first valve group 210, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump 120, the sixth inlet f7 of the second valve group 220, the second outlet f8 of the second valve group 220 and the storage chamber of the ink tank 110 are sequentially connected through the pipeline to form a second evacuation pipeline.

[0039] Understandably, when the ink supply pump 120 and the ink return pump 140 are started simultaneously, the ink in the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130 can flow into the interior of the ink return pump 140 under the pumping action of the ink return pump 140, and then flow into the storage chamber of the ink tank 110 through the seventh inlet f11 and the fifth outlet f12 of the third valve group 230 under the pumping action of the ink return pump 140. At the same time, the ink in the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130 can flow into the storage chamber of the ink bucket 110 through the second inlet f11 of the first valve group 210 under the pumping action of the ink supply pump 120. 2 and the first outlet f6 flow into the interior of the ink supply pump 120, and under the pumping action of the ink supply pump 120, flow into the storage chamber of the ink tank 110 through the sixth inlet f7 and the second outlet f8 of the second valve group 220. This allows the ink in the ink tank to be delivered to the ink tank 110 to the maximum extent, so as to realize ink recycling and facilitate the next use. This reduces unnecessary ink loss, lowers costs, and enables the ink in the ink cartridge 130 to be quickly emptied, so as to efficiently clean the ink cartridge 130.

[0040] When the ink supply system with cleaning function is in internal circulation cleaning mode, the switching action of the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220, and the third valve group 230 causes the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump 120, the sixth inlet f7 of the second valve group 220, the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220, the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump 140, the third inlet f3 of the first valve group 210, and the first outlet f6 of the first valve group 210 to be sequentially connected through the pipeline to form a closed-loop internal circulation cleaning pipeline. Old cleaning agent flows within the internal circulation cleaning pipeline.

[0041] Furthermore, when the ink supply system with cleaning function switches from the ink cartridge 130 evacuation mode to the internal circulation cleaning mode, the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210 is configured to open under the control of the first valve group 210 to introduce old cleaning agent into the internal circulation cleaning pipeline. When the ink supply system with cleaning function switches from the internal circulation cleaning mode to the external circulation cleaning mode, the fourth outlet f10 of the second valve group 220 is configured to open under the control of the second valve group 220 to drain the old cleaning agent from the internal circulation cleaning pipeline.

[0042] Understandably, when the ink supply pump 120 and the return pump 140 are operating simultaneously, the old cleaning agent is introduced into the internal circulation cleaning pipeline by opening the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210, allowing a certain amount of old cleaning agent to gradually accumulate in the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130. Then, the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210 is closed, causing the old cleaning agent to circulate within the internal circulation cleaning pipeline, allowing the old cleaning agent to continuously flush away the ink residue adhering to the internal circulation cleaning pipeline, thereby washing away most of the ink residue. After the internal circulation cleaning is completed within the set time, the ink supply system with cleaning function will enter the external circulation cleaning mode. At this time, it is necessary to discharge the old cleaning agent in the internal circulation cleaning pipeline. Therefore, the fourth outlet f10 of the second valve group 220 is opened to discharge the old cleaning agent in the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the old cleaning agent in the pipeline, the old cleaning agent in the ink supply pump 120, and the old cleaning agent in the return pump 140 to the outside.

[0043] When the ink supply system with cleaning function is in external circulation cleaning mode, the switching action of the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220, and the third valve group 230 causes the fifth inlet f5 of the first valve group 210, the first outlet f6 of the first valve group 210, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump 120, the sixth inlet f7 of the second valve group 220, the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220, the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump 140, the seventh inlet f11 of the third valve group 230, and the sixth outlet f13 of the third valve group 230 to be sequentially connected through pipelines to form an external circulation cleaning pipeline. New cleaning agent is connected within the external circulation cleaning pipeline.

[0044] Understandably, when the ink supply pump 120 and the return pump 140 are working simultaneously, the fifth inlet f5 of the first valve group 210 is opened to continuously supply new cleaning agent into the external circulation cleaning pipeline. This allows the new cleaning agent to flush away the ink residues adhering to the external circulation cleaning pipeline and flow out from the sixth outlet f13 of the third valve group 230, thus discharging the ink residues. At this time, the new cleaning agent containing ink residues becomes old cleaning agent after being discharged, which can be effectively recycled and reused in the next internal circulation cleaning mode, saving the cost of cleaning agent usage.

[0045] In the ink supply system with cleaning function provided in the first aspect embodiment of the present invention, when the ink supply system with cleaning function needs to be cleaned, the ink tank of ink cartridge 130, the inlet and outlet of ink return pump 140, the seventh inlet f11 of third valve group 230, the fifth outlet f12 of third valve group 230, and the storage chamber of ink tank 110 are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a first venting pipeline. At the same time, the ink tank of ink cartridge 130 and the first valve group 210 are connected. The second inlet f2, the first outlet f6 of the first valve group 210, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump 120, the sixth inlet f7 of the second valve group 220, the second outlet f8 of the second valve group 220, and the storage chamber of the ink tank 110 are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a second venting pipeline. At the same time, the ink supply pump 120 and the return ink pump 140 are started to quickly transport the remaining ink in the ink cartridge 130 to the ink tank 110 through the first venting pipeline and the second venting pipeline, thereby completing the venting of the ink cartridge 130 efficiently and helping to improve the cleaning efficiency.

[0046] Next, by switching the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220, and the third valve group 230, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump 120, the sixth inlet f7 of the second valve group 220, the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220, the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump 140, the third inlet f3 of the first valve group 210, and the first outlet f6 of the first valve group 210 are sequentially connected through pipelines to form an internal circulation cleaning pipeline. At the same time, old cleaning agent is injected into the internal circulation cleaning pipeline through the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210, so that the old cleaning agent circulates along the internal circulation cleaning pipeline under the operation of the ink supply pump 120 and the return ink pump 140, and is finally discharged through the fourth outlet f10 of the second valve group 220, thereby ensuring that the old cleaning agent can carry ink residues out for discharge, thus completing the first cleaning work.

[0047] Then, through the switching and conduction actions of the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220, and the third valve group 230, the fifth inlet f5 of the first valve group 210, the first outlet f6 of the first valve group 210, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump 120, the sixth inlet f7 of the second valve group 220, the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220, the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump 140, the seventh inlet f11 of the third valve group 230, and the sixth outlet f13 of the third valve group 230 are connected via pipelines. The system is sequentially connected to form an external circulation cleaning pipeline. At the same time, new cleaning agent is injected into the external circulation cleaning pipeline through the fifth inlet f5 of the first valve group 210. The new cleaning agent flows along the external circulation cleaning pipeline under the operation of the ink supply pump 120 and the return ink pump 140, and finally flows out from the sixth outlet f13 of the third valve group 230. This ensures that the new cleaning agent can carry away the ink residue and be discharged to complete the second cleaning work. Finally, the cleaning effect is improved through the dual action of internal circulation cleaning and external circulation cleaning.

[0048] After the new cleaning agent is discharged through the sixth outlet f13 of the third valve group 230, it becomes the old cleaning agent, which can be reused in the subsequent internal circulation cleaning mode. Moreover, the ink supply system with cleaning function uses the old cleaning agent and the new cleaning agent to rinse in sequence. While ensuring good cleaning effect, it can reduce the amount of cleaning agent used, thereby reducing the storage and disposal of waste liquid (which cannot be used as cleaning agent), which helps to reduce the cost required for cleaning work (including the purchase cost and disposal cost of cleaning agent).

[0049] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the ink supply system with cleaning function also includes a flow meter 150. The inlet of the flow meter 150 is connected to the outlet of the return ink pump 140 via a pipeline, and the outlet of the flow meter 150 is connected to the third inlet f3 of the first valve group 210 and the seventh inlet f11 of the third valve group 230 via pipelines. In this embodiment, the flow meter 150 is an electromagnetic flow meter. The flow meter 150 can be used to measure the flow rate of liquid flowing out of the outlet of the return ink pump 140 in real time. When liquid flows through the flow meter 150, the flow signal of the flow meter 150 is "on"; when no liquid flows through the flow meter 150, the flow signal of the flow meter 150 is "off".

[0050] Furthermore, the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210 is configured to close when the ink supply system with cleaning function is in internal circulation cleaning mode, as the flow signal of the flow meter 150 changes from zero to intermittent. Understandably, during internal circulation cleaning mode, the old cleaning agent flows from the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210 to the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130 under the operation of the ink supply pump 120. At this time, the level of the old cleaning agent in the ink tank gradually rises until it reaches the set level, at which point the return pump 140 can pump the old cleaning agent from the ink tank. When the flow meter 150 detects the presence of old cleaning agent, and the flow meter 150 changes from no flow signal to flow signal, the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210 can close. At this time, the amount of old cleaning agent in the internal circulation cleaning pipeline is sufficient, and the pipeline between the flow meter 150 and the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210 can be designed to be very short. Based on the flow detection signal of the flow meter 150, it is determined whether the old cleaning agent dosage in the internal circulation cleaning pipeline meets the conditions, thereby precisely controlling the closing time of the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210 to start the internal circulation cleaning, reducing the time required for the entire cleaning process, improving cleaning efficiency, and saving the amount of old cleaning agent used.

[0051] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the ink supply system with cleaning function also includes a falling ball type ink viscosity control device 160. The falling ball type ink viscosity control device 160 can detect and adjust the ink viscosity. The falling ball type ink viscosity control device 160 has an ink inlet and an ink outlet that can be opened and closed. The ink inlet is connected to the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220 via a pipeline, and the ink outlet is connected to the storage chamber of the ink tank 110 via a pipeline.

[0052] Understandably, when the ink supply system with cleaning function is in ink supply mode, the ink supply pump 120 will not only deliver a portion of the ink to the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, but also deliver another portion of the ink to the falling ball ink viscosity control device 160. This allows the falling ball ink viscosity control device 160 to measure the viscosity of the ink and add solvent, and then send it back to the storage chamber of the ink tank 110. This effectively adjusts the viscosity of the ink in the storage chamber, ensuring that the viscosity of the ink meets the printing requirements.

[0053] Furthermore, such as Figure 2As shown, the ink supply system with cleaning function also includes a fourth valve group 240. The fourth valve group 240 has three valve ports: an eighth inlet f14, a seventh outlet f15, and an eighth outlet f16. The fourth valve group 240 can be composed of multiple electric valves. Under electric control, the fourth valve group 240 can control the opening and closing of the three valve ports and, through switching actions, can cause the eighth inlet f14 to be connected to either the seventh outlet f15 or the eighth outlet f16. The ink outlet of the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160 is connected to the eighth inlet f14 of the fourth valve group 240 via a pipeline. The storage chamber of the ink tank 110 is connected to the seventh outlet f15 of the fourth valve group 240 via a pipeline. The ink reservoir of the ink cartridge 130 is connected to the eighth outlet f16 of the fourth valve group 240 via a pipeline.

[0054] When the ink supply system with cleaning function is in ink supply mode, the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220, the ink inlet and ink outlet of the falling ball ink viscosity control device 160, the eighth inlet f14 of the fourth valve group 240, the seventh outlet f15 of the fourth valve group 240, and the storage chamber of the ink tank 110 are sequentially connected through pipelines to form the first pipeline. While the ink supply pump 120 delivers a portion of ink to the ink reservoir of the ink cartridge 130, it also sends another portion of ink back to the ink tank 110 through the first pipeline. During this process, the ink undergoes viscosity adjustment when passing through the falling ball ink viscosity control device 160, and the viscosity-adjusted ink flows back to the ink tank 110, thereby ensuring that the ink viscosity in the ink tank 110 meets the requirements.

[0055] When the ink supply system with cleaning function is in any of the ink cartridge 130 emptying mode, internal circulation cleaning mode, and external circulation cleaning mode, the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220, the ink inlet and ink outlet of the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160, the eighth inlet f14 of the fourth valve group 240, the eighth outlet f16 of the fourth valve group 240, and the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130 are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a second pipeline.

[0056] Understandably, in the ink cartridge 130 evacuation mode, the ink supply pump 120 evacuates both the ink cartridge 130 and the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160. A portion of the ink in the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160 flows sequentially to the ink supply pump 120 via the ink inlet and the second inlet f2 of the first valve group 210. Another portion of the ink in the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160 flows sequentially to the ink supply pump 120 via the ink outlet, the eighth inlet f14 and the eighth outlet f16 of the fourth valve group 240, and the second inlet f2 of the first valve group 210. The ink supply pump 120 then delivers the ink sequentially to the ink tank 110 via the sixth inlet f7 and the second outlet f8 of the second valve group 220.

[0057] In the internal circulation cleaning mode, when the ink supply pump 120 delivers the old cleaning agent flowing in from the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210 to the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the old cleaning agent flowing out from the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220 is divided into two paths. One path flows directly into the ink tank, and the other path flows into the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160. Then, it flows into the ink tank through the eighth inlet f14 and the eighth outlet f16 of the fourth valve group 240 in sequence to flush the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160 and remove the ink residue inside the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160.

[0058] In the external circulation cleaning mode, when the ink supply pump 120 delivers the new cleaning agent flowing in from the fifth inlet f5 of the first valve group 210 towards the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130, the new cleaning agent flowing out from the third outlet f9 of the second valve group 220 is divided into two paths. One path flows directly into the ink tank, and the other path flows into the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160. Then, it flows into the ink tank through the eighth inlet f14 and the eighth outlet f16 of the fourth valve group 240 in sequence to flush the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160 again and remove the ink residue in the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160.

[0059] By setting the fourth valve group 240, the ink cartridge 130 can be flushed internally and externally, and the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160 can also be cleaned internally and externally, ensuring that the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160 works stably and is not prone to clogging.

[0060] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the ink supply system with cleaning function also includes a control unit. The control unit is electrically connected to the ink supply pump 120, the return ink pump 140, the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220, the third valve group 230, and the fourth valve group 240 via wiring. The control unit is configured to control the opening and closing of the ink supply pump 120 and the return ink pump 140, and to switch the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220, the third valve group 230, and the fourth valve group 240 on and off. Additionally, the control unit is electrically connected to a flow meter 150. The control unit can receive the flow signal from the flow meter 150 and control the ink supply pump 120, the return ink pump 140, the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220, the third valve group 230, and the fourth valve group 240 according to the flow signal. The control unit can be, but is not limited to, a PLC controller, a host computer, or a 51 microcontroller.

[0061] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3As shown, the first valve assembly 210 also has a ninth inlet f17 for supplying inert gas. The ninth inlet f17 can be connected to an intake pipe 450, through which inert gas can flow. In internal or external circulation cleaning mode, the ninth inlet f17 of the first valve assembly 210 is configured to open under the control of the first valve assembly 210 to supply inert gas to the internal or external circulation cleaning pipe, thereby mixing the old or new cleaning agent with the inert gas.

[0062] Understandably, in the internal circulation cleaning mode, the fourth inlet f4 and the ninth inlet f17 of the first valve group 210 are opened simultaneously, allowing the old cleaning agent and inert gas to enter the internal circulation cleaning pipeline. This allows the inert gas and the old cleaning agent to fully mix and form fine foam, which is used to perform water-vapor mixed cleaning of the internal circulation cleaning pipeline, improving the cleaning effect and efficiency. At the same time, it can reduce the amount of old cleaning agent used and reduce costs.

[0063] In the external circulation cleaning mode, the fifth inlet f5 and the ninth inlet f17 of the first valve group 210 are opened simultaneously, allowing the inert gas and the new cleaning agent to enter the internal circulation cleaning pipeline and fully mix to form fine foam, which is used for water and steam mixing cleaning of the external circulation cleaning pipeline, improving the cleaning effect and cleaning efficiency, while reducing the amount of old cleaning agent used and saving costs.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the ink supply system with cleaning function also includes a first material tank 310 and a second material tank 320. The first material tank 310 has a first cavity for storing old cleaning agent, and the second material tank 320 has a second cavity for storing new cleaning agent, the new cleaning agent in the second cavity not containing ink. The first cavity is connected via pipes to the fourth inlet f4 of the first valve group 210 and the sixth outlet f13 of the third valve group 230, respectively. The second cavity is connected via pipes to the fifth inlet f5 of the first valve group 210. In this embodiment, the two ends of the first liquid inlet pipe 410 are connected to the fourth inlet f4 and the first cavity of the first material tank 310, respectively; the two ends of the second liquid inlet pipe 420 are connected to the fifth inlet f5 and the second cavity of the second material tank 320, respectively; and the two ends of the second liquid outlet pipe 440 are connected to the sixth outlet f13 and the first cavity of the first material tank 310, respectively.

[0065] In the external circulation cleaning mode, the ink supply pump 120 can transport the new cleaning agent in the second chamber to the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130 during operation. At the same time, the return ink pump 140 can transport the new cleaning agent in the ink tank to the sixth outlet f13 of the third valve group 230 during operation. The new cleaning agent flowing out of the sixth outlet f13 contains ink residue. Therefore, the new cleaning agent at this time becomes the old cleaning agent and flows into the first material tank 310 for recycling and to replenish the old cleaning agent in the first material tank 310.

[0066] In the internal circulation cleaning mode, the ink supply pump 120 can transport the old cleaning agent in the first chamber to the ink tank of the ink cartridge 130 when it is working. After the internal circulation cleaning is completed, the old cleaning agent will flow out from the fourth outlet f10 of the second valve group 220. At this time, the old cleaning agent contains a lot of ink residue. In order to improve the internal circulation cleaning effect, it can no longer be recycled.

[0067] like Figures 2 to 6 As shown, the control method for an ink supply system with a cleaning function according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention is applied to an ink supply system with a cleaning function as described in the first aspect embodiment. The control method includes the following steps: Step S1: Obtain the current operating mode of the ink supply system with cleaning function.

[0068] Step S2: Determine whether the current working mode is cleaning mode.

[0069] Step S3: If yes, then execute the cartridge 130 emptying mode, internal circulation cleaning mode, and external circulation cleaning mode in sequence.

[0070] Step S4: In the ink cartridge 130 purging mode, control the ink supply pump 120 and the return ink pump 140 to start, and control the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220, the third valve group 230 and the fourth valve group 240 to switch on and off, so as to purge the first purging pipeline, the second purging pipeline and the second pipeline, thereby allowing the ink to flow to the storage chamber.

[0071] Step S5: When the ink cartridge 130 is switched from the emptying mode to the internal circulation cleaning mode, the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220 and the third valve group 230 are switched on to allow the old cleaning agent to enter the internal circulation cleaning pipeline and the second pipeline through the fourth inlet f4 until the flow signal of the flow meter 150 is available before closing the fourth inlet f4.

[0072] Step S6: When the internal circulation cleaning mode is switched to the external circulation cleaning mode, first control the second valve group 220 to switch on so that the old cleaning agent flows out through the fourth outlet f10. Then control the first valve group 210, the second valve group 220 and the third valve group 230 to switch on so that the new cleaning agent flows into the external circulation cleaning pipeline and the second pipeline through the fifth inlet f5 and flows out through the sixth outlet f13.

[0073] Users can operate the control unit to select either the ink supply mode or the cleaning mode of the ink supply system with cleaning function. If the current operating mode of the ink supply system with cleaning function is determined to be cleaning mode, the ink supply system with cleaning function will sequentially enter the ink cartridge 130 emptying mode, the internal circulation cleaning mode, and the external circulation cleaning mode.

[0074] In the ink cartridge 130 emptying mode, the ink supply pump 120 and the return ink pump 140 work simultaneously to efficiently empty the ink cartridge 130 and the ball-type ink viscosity control device 160, so as to send the ink to the storage chamber of the ink tank 110, reduce ink loss, and shorten the emptying time of the ink cartridge 130, which is beneficial to improving cleaning efficiency.

[0075] Next, in the internal circulation cleaning mode, by inputting old cleaning agent and activating the ink supply pump 120 and the return pump 140, the old cleaning agent flows in the internal circulation cleaning pipeline and the second pipeline to perform internal circulation cleaning. Finally, the old cleaning agent, carrying ink residue, is discharged out from the fourth outlet f10. Then, in the external circulation cleaning mode, by inputting new cleaning agent and running the ink supply pump 120 and the return pump 140, the new cleaning agent flows in the external circulation cleaning pipeline to perform external circulation cleaning. Finally, the new cleaning agent, carrying ink residue, is discharged out from the sixth outlet f13. By sequentially performing internal and external circulation cleaning operations, the cleaning effect can be improved, and the discharged new cleaning agent can be used as old cleaning agent in the next internal circulation cleaning operation, reducing the consumption of cleaning agent and thus reducing cleaning costs.

[0076] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described. Those skilled in the art can make various equivalent modifications or substitutions without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and these equivalent modifications or substitutions are all included within the scope defined by the claims of this application.

Claims

1. An ink supply system with a cleaning function, characterized in that, It includes an ink tank, an ink cartridge, an ink supply pump, an ink return pump, a first valve group, a second valve group, and a third valve group. The ink tank has a storage cavity for storing ink, and the ink cartridge has an ink trough for containing ink. The first valve assembly has a first outlet, a first inlet, a second inlet, a third inlet, a fourth inlet for supplying old cleaning agent, and a fifth inlet for supplying new cleaning agent; the second valve assembly has a sixth inlet, a second outlet, a third outlet, and a fourth outlet for supplying old cleaning agent; the third valve assembly has a seventh inlet, a fifth outlet, and a sixth outlet for supplying old cleaning agent. The storage cavity is connected to the first inlet, the second outlet and the fifth outlet respectively; the ink tank is connected to the second inlet, the third outlet and the inlet of the ink return pump respectively; the inlet of the ink supply pump is connected to the first outlet; the outlet of the ink supply pump is connected to the sixth inlet; and the outlet of the ink return pump is connected to the third inlet and the seventh inlet respectively. The ink supply system with cleaning function has a cartridge emptying mode, an internal circulation cleaning mode, and an external circulation cleaning mode that are executed sequentially. In the ink cartridge emptying mode, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the ink return pump, the seventh inlet, the fifth outlet, and the storage cavity are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a first emptying pipeline; the ink tank, the second inlet, the first outlet, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the second outlet, and the storage cavity are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a second emptying pipeline. In the internal circulation cleaning mode, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the third outlet, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump, the third inlet, and the first outlet are sequentially connected through pipelines to form an internal circulation cleaning pipeline. When the ink cartridge evacuation mode is switched to the internal circulation cleaning mode, the fourth inlet is configured to open to introduce old cleaning agent into the internal circulation cleaning pipeline. When the internal circulation cleaning mode is switched to the external circulation cleaning mode, the fourth outlet is configured to open to drain the old cleaning agent from the internal circulation cleaning pipeline. In the external circulation cleaning mode, the fifth inlet, the first outlet, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the third outlet, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the ink return pump, the seventh inlet, and the sixth outlet are sequentially connected through pipelines to form an external circulation cleaning pipeline. The ink supply system with cleaning function also has an ink supply mode. In the ink supply mode, the storage chamber, the first inlet, the inlet and outlet of the ink supply pump, the sixth inlet, the third outlet, the ink tank, the inlet and outlet of the return ink pump, the seventh inlet, and the fifth outlet are connected end to end through pipelines to form an ink supply circulation loop.

2. The ink supply system with cleaning function according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a flow meter, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the ink return pump, and the outlet of which is connected to the third inlet and the seventh inlet respectively. The fourth inlet is also configured to be turned off when the flow signal of the flow meter changes from zero to sometimes in the internal circulation cleaning mode.

3. The ink supply system with cleaning function according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flow meter is an electromagnetic flow meter.

4. The ink supply system with cleaning function according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, It also includes a falling ball type ink viscosity control device, which has an ink inlet and an ink outlet that can be opened and closed, the ink inlet being connected to the third outlet and the ink outlet being connected to the storage cavity.

5. The ink supply system with cleaning function according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a fourth valve assembly, which has an eighth inlet, a seventh outlet and an eighth outlet, the ink outlet being connected to the eighth inlet, the storage cavity being connected to the seventh outlet, and the ink tank being connected to the eighth outlet; In the ink supply mode, the third outlet, the ink inlet, the ink outlet, the eighth inlet, the seventh outlet, and the storage cavity are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a first pipeline; In any of the ink cartridge emptying mode, the internal circulation cleaning mode, and the external circulation cleaning mode, the third outlet, the ink inlet, the ink outlet, the eighth inlet, the eighth outlet, and the ink tank are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a second pipeline.

6. The ink supply system with cleaning function according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a control unit, which is electrically connected to the ink supply pump, the ink return pump, the first valve group, the second valve group, the third valve group, and the fourth valve group, respectively. The control unit is configured to control the opening and closing of the ink supply pump and the ink return pump, and to control the switching conduction of the first valve group, the second valve group, the third valve group, and the fourth valve group, respectively.

7. The ink supply system with cleaning function according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes a first material tank and a second material tank. The first material tank has a first cavity for storing old cleaning agent, and the second material tank has a second cavity for storing new cleaning agent. The first cavity is connected to the fourth inlet and the sixth outlet through a pipeline, and the second cavity is connected to the fifth inlet through a pipeline. And / or, the first valve assembly also has a ninth inlet for supplying inert gas; in the internal circulation cleaning mode or the external circulation cleaning mode, the ninth inlet is configured to open to supply inert gas into the internal circulation cleaning line or the external circulation cleaning line, thereby mixing the old cleaning agent or the new cleaning agent with the inert gas. And / or, the ink supply pump and the ink return pump are dual-head diaphragm pumps.

8. A control method for an ink supply system with a cleaning function, characterized in that, Applied to the ink supply system with cleaning function as described in any one of claims 5 to 7, the control method includes the following steps: Obtain the current operating mode of the ink supply system with cleaning function; Determine whether the current working mode is the cleaning mode; If so, then the cartridge emptying mode, the internal circulation cleaning mode, and the external circulation cleaning mode are executed sequentially. In the ink cartridge emptying mode, the ink supply pump and the ink return pump are started, and the first valve group, the second valve group, the third valve group and the fourth valve group are switched on to empty the first emptying pipeline, the second emptying pipeline and the second pipeline, so that the ink flows to the storage chamber. When the cartridge emptying mode is switched to the internal circulation cleaning mode, the first valve group, the second valve group and the third valve group are switched on to allow the old cleaning agent to enter the internal circulation cleaning pipeline and the second pipeline through the fourth inlet until the flow signal of the flow meter is available and then the fourth inlet is closed. When the internal circulation cleaning mode is switched to the external circulation cleaning mode, the second valve group is first controlled to switch on so that the old cleaning agent flows out through the fourth outlet. Then, the first valve group, the second valve group and the third valve group are controlled to switch on so that the new cleaning agent flows into the external circulation cleaning pipeline and the second pipeline through the fifth inlet and flows out through the sixth outlet.

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