Decoloring device

Abstract

The decolorizing apparatus 100 decolorizes materials without burdening the user. The solvent supply unit 30 of the decolorizing device 100 supplies solvent 400 to the decolorizing material 200 containing fibers dyed with pigment, the solvent 400 causing the pigment to detach from the fibers. The hot-pressing unit 60 applies heat and pressure to the decolorizing material 200 supplied with solvent 400 and to an absorbent 300 overlapping with and absorbing the pigment-containing solvent 400 from the decolorizing material 200. Material transport units 40AA and 40AB transport the decolorizing material 200 without solvent 400 to the solvent supply position and the decolorizing material 200 supplied with solvent 400 to the hot-pressing position. The absorbent transport unit 50, in conjunction with the transport of the decolorizing material 200, transports the absorbent 300 to the hot-pressing position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a decolorization apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, there are known techniques for printing on fabrics using transfer printing. Transfer printing is a method of printing by drawing an image on a transfer sheet using transfer ink, and then transferring the image from the transfer sheet to the fabric. Additionally, for the recycling of fabrics, there are known techniques for decolorizing the fabric to remove the image from the printed fabric.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for discharge dyeing dyed fabric by printing a discharge agent using an inkjet printing method. Patent Document 1 also describes an inkjet printing apparatus that sprays out such discharge ink for discharge dyeing.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-224128 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, decolorizing an object typically requires not only the application of a solvent to the object, but also hot pressing of the object and the absorbent to absorb the solvent, supplying the absorbent to the object, and transporting the object. Ideally, this series of processes required for decolorizing the object should be automated with minimal user effort. The inkjet printing apparatus described in Patent Document 1 is not capable of automating this series of processes required for decolorization. Therefore, an ideal technique is one that decolorizes the object without burdening the user.

[0009] This disclosure was made in view of the aforementioned problems, and its object is to provide a decolorizing apparatus for decolorizing objects without burdening the user.

[0010] Technical means to solve the problem

[0011] To achieve the aforementioned objective, the decolorization apparatus disclosed herein includes:

[0012] A solvent applicator applies a solvent to a decolorized object containing fibers stained with pigment, the solvent being capable of removing the pigment from the fibers;

[0013] A hot pressing mechanism applies heat and pressure to the decolorized object to which the solvent has been applied, and to an absorbent that overlaps with the decolorized object and absorbs the solvent containing the pigment from the decolorized object.

[0014] An object conveying mechanism conveys the decolorized object without the solvent to the solvent-concentrating position, and conveys the decolorized object with the solvent to the hot-pressing position; and

[0015] The absorbent conveying mechanism, in conjunction with the conveying of the decolorized object, conveys the absorbent to the hot pressing position.

[0016] It may include a control mechanism that controls the object conveying mechanism and the absorbent conveying mechanism so that multiple hot pressings are not performed on the same location for either the decolorized object or the absorbent.

[0017] The object conveying mechanism may include:

[0018] A first conveyor belt transports the decolorized object, which has not been treated with the solvent, to the location where the solvent is applied; and

[0019] The second conveyor belt transports the decolorized object, which has been coated with the solvent, to the hot pressing position.

[0020] The object conveying mechanism may include:

[0021] The first release roller releases the decolorized object wound into a roll; and

[0022] The first winding roller winds the decolorized object released by the first discharge roller.

[0023] The solvent dispensing mechanism may include a solvent storage tank for storing the solvent.

[0024] The object conveying mechanism conveys the decolorized object along a conveying path through the solvent stored in the solvent storage tank.

[0025] The solvent dispensing mechanism may include a nozzle that sprays the solvent onto the surface of the object to be decolorized.

[0026] The absorber conveying mechanism may include:

[0027] The second release roller releases the absorbent body wound into a coil; and

[0028] The second winding roller winds the absorbent released by the second discharge roller.

[0029] The absorber conveying mechanism may include:

[0030] A tray is provided to house the absorbent body, which is formed into a sheet shape; and

[0031] The supply roller delivers the absorbent housed in the supply tray toward the hot pressing position.

[0032] The absorbent conveying mechanism may include a peeling mechanism that peels the absorbent, which is pressed against the decolorized object by the hot-pressing mechanism, from the decolorized object.

[0033] The effects of the invention

[0034] According to this disclosure, decolorization of objects can be performed without burdening users. Attached Figure Description

[0035] [ Figure 1 [This is an external view of the decolorization apparatus according to Embodiment 1]

[0036] [ Figure 2 [This is a side view of the decolorization apparatus according to Embodiment 1]

[0037] [ Figure 3 [This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the function of the decolorization apparatus according to Embodiment 1]

[0038] [ Figure 4 [This is an external view of the decolorization apparatus according to Embodiment 2]

[0039] [ Figure 5 [This is a side view of the decolorization apparatus according to Embodiment 2]

[0040] [ Figure 6 [This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the function of the decolorization apparatus according to Embodiment 2]

[0041] [ Figure 7 [This is a side view of the decolorization apparatus according to Embodiment 3]

[0042] [ Figure 8 [This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the function of the decolorization apparatus according to Embodiment 3] Detailed Implementation

[0043] (Implementation Method 1)

[0044] In this embodiment, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The structure of the decolorization device 100 will be described, and reference will be made to... Figure 3 The function of the decolorization apparatus 100 will be explained. Furthermore, in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3In this document, for non-characteristic structures in the decolorization apparatus 100, illustrations and labels have been appropriately omitted. Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the appearance of the decolorizing device 100. Figure 2 This is a side view of the decolorizing device 100. Figure 3 This is a diagram used to illustrate the function of the decolorization apparatus 100.

[0045] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this diagram, the Z-axis extends vertically, the X-axis is orthogonal to the Z-axis, and the Y-axis is orthogonal to both the X-axis and Z-axis. The direction the X-axis arrow points is the positive direction, and the opposite direction is the negative direction. The direction the Y-axis arrow points is the positive direction, and the opposite direction is the negative direction. The direction the Z-axis arrow points is the positive direction, and the opposite direction is the negative direction. Hereinafter, the positive direction of the X-axis will be referred to as the depth direction, the negative direction as the forward direction, the positive direction of the Y-axis as the left direction, the negative direction as the right direction, the positive direction of the Z-axis as the up direction, and the negative direction as the down direction.

[0046] The decolorizing apparatus 100 is an apparatus for decolorizing the object to be decolorized 200, and is an apparatus for removing pigments from the object to be decolorized 200. The decolorizing apparatus 100 performs a series of processes, including providing solvent 400 to the object to be decolorized 200, hot-pressing the object to be decolorized 200 and absorbent 300, conveying the object to be decolorized 200, and supplying absorbent 300 to the object to be decolorized 200.

[0047] The object to be decolorized 200 is an object that has been decolorized, and is an object colored by ink or dye containing pigments such as dyes or pigments. The object to be decolorized 200 contains fibers colored by pigments. For example, the object to be decolorized 200 is a fabric with an image drawn on it by transfer printing. In this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200 is formed as a thin and flat sheet. Examples of objects to be decolorized 200 include towels, T-shirts, flags, banners, etc.

[0048] The absorber 300 is a component that absorbs the solvent 400. When the absorber 300 is pressed against a decolorized object 200 that has been supplied with the solvent 400 and heated, it absorbs the solvent 400 containing pigment from the decolorized object 200. Various raw materials suitable for absorbing the solvent 400 can be used as the raw material for the absorber 300. For example, the raw material for the absorber 300 can be fabric. In this embodiment, the absorber 300 is rolled into a roll before use, stretched during use, and rolled back into a roll after use. Therefore, in this embodiment, the absorber 300 has a long strip shape with a thickness sufficiently shorter than its width and a length sufficiently longer than its width.

[0049] Solvent 400 is a solvent capable of removing pigment from fibers colored by the pigment. Solvent 400 is a liquid solvent capable of extracting the ink component containing pigment applied to the object to be decolored 200 from the object to be decolored. When solvent 400 is heated while contained within the object to be decolored 200, the pigment adhering to the object to be decolored 200 is extracted. Solvent 400 functions as a decolorizing liquid. Depending on the pigment adhering to the object to be decolored 200 or the material of the object to be decolored 200, various solvents suitable for extracting the pigment can be used as solvent 400. For example, ideally, dimethyl succinate, dimethyl glutarate, dimethyl adipate, ethyl dithiocarbamate, etc., are suitable as solvent 400. In this embodiment, solvent 400 is applied to the object to be decolored 200 by inkjet printing.

[0050] The decolorization apparatus 100 includes an operation unit 5, a solvent supply unit 30, a target material conveying unit 40, an absorbent conveying unit 50, a hot pressing unit 60, a recovery box 70, support columns 81, 82, 83, 84, 85 and 86.

[0051] The operation unit 5 is a module used to operate the solvent supply unit 30, the object conveying unit 40, the absorbent conveying unit 50, the hot pressing unit 60, and other units. The operation unit 5 includes a control unit 10, a storage unit 21, a display unit 22, an operation receiving unit 23, and a communication unit 24.

[0052] The control unit 10 controls the overall operation of the decolorizing apparatus 100. The control unit 10 includes a central processing unit (CPU), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and a real-time clock (RTC). The CPU, also known as a central processing unit, central arithmetic unit, processor, microprocessor, microcomputer, or digital signal processor (DSP), functions as a central processing unit that performs processing and calculations related to the control of the decolorizing apparatus 100. In the control unit 10, the CPU reads programs and data stored in the ROM and uses the RAM as its working area to perform overall control of the decolorizing apparatus 100. The RTC is, for example, an integrated circuit with a timing function. Furthermore, the CPU can determine the current date and time based on the time information read from the RTC. The control unit 10 is an example of a control mechanism.

[0053] The storage unit 21 includes non-volatile semiconductor memories such as flash memory, erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), and electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), serving as a secondary storage device or auxiliary storage device. The storage control unit 10 of the storage unit 21 stores programs and data used to execute various processes. Additionally, the storage control unit 10 of the storage unit 21 stores data generated or acquired by executing various processes.

[0054] The display unit 22 displays various images under the control of the control unit 10. The display unit 22 includes a touch screen, an LCD, etc. The operation receiving unit 23 receives various operations from the user and supplies information indicating the content of the received operation to the control unit 10. The operation receiving unit 23 includes a touch screen, buttons, joysticks, etc.

[0055] The communication unit 24, under the control of the control unit 10, communicates with various devices (not shown) following various wireless communication standards or various wired communication standards. These wireless communication standards include Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Long Term Evolution (LTE), 4th Generation (4G), 5th Generation (5G), Bluetooth (registered trademark), and Zigbee (registered trademark). These wired communication standards include USB (Universal Serial Bus, registered trademark) and Thunderbolt (registered trademark). The communication unit 24 includes communication interfaces compliant with these various communication standards.

[0056] The solvent delivery unit 30 delivers solvent 400, which extracts pigment contained in the decolorized object 200, to the decolorized object 200 at the solvent delivery position. In this embodiment, the solvent delivery unit 30 ejects particles of solvent 400 to the decolorized object 200 via inkjet printing. The solvent delivery position is the location where solvent is delivered to the decolorized object 200. The structure of the solvent delivery unit 30 can be the same as that of a general inkjet printer. The solvent delivery unit 30 includes a printhead 31, motors 32AA and 32AB, a canister 33, a hose 34, a printhead support 35, a moving part 36, a guide member 37, a guide member support 38, and a support platform 39. The solvent delivery unit 30 is an example of a solvent delivery mechanism.

[0057] The printhead 31, under the control of the control unit 10, sprays solvent 400 onto the surface of the object to be decolorized 200. The printhead 31 sprays solvent 400 particles using inkjet printing methods such as piezoelectric or thermal printing. The printhead 31 is an example of an inkjet printhead.

[0058] Motor 32AA is a motor that moves the nozzle 31 in the main scanning direction under the control of control unit 10. When motor 32AA is driven under the control of control unit 10, the moving part 36 of nozzle support 35, which supports nozzle 31, moves along guide member 37 in the main scanning direction. The main scanning direction is the X-axis direction.

[0059] Motor 32AB is a motor that moves the nozzle 31 in the sub-scanning direction under the control of control unit 10. When motor 32AB is driven under the control of control unit 10, the guide member support 38 of the support guide member 37 moves together with the nozzle 31 in the sub-scanning direction along the guide rail 39A extending in the sub-scanning direction. The sub-scanning direction is the Y-axis direction.

[0060] The tank 33 stores the solvent 400 that is ejected from the nozzle 31. The hose 34 is a hose for supplying the solvent 400 stored in the tank 33 to the nozzle 31. The nozzle support 35 is a member that supports the nozzle 31. The moving part 36 is a member to which the nozzle support 35 is fixed, and it is a member that moves along the guide member 37 in the main scanning direction.

[0061] The guide member 37 is a member that guides the moving part 36 in the main scanning direction. The guide member support part 38 is a member that supports the guide member 37 and moves along the guide rail 39A in the sub-scanning direction. The support stage 39 is a stage that supports the guide member support part 38. The support stage 39 has a guide rail 39A extending in the sub-scanning direction.

[0062] The object conveying unit 40 conveys the untreated object 200 to the solvent-concentrated position and the solvent-concentrated object 200 to the hot-pressing position. The hot-pressing position is the position where heat and pressure are applied to the object 200 and the absorber 300 to perform hot pressing. The object conveying unit 40 uses conveyor belts 42AA and 42AB to convey the object 200. The object conveying unit 40 includes object conveying section 40AA, object conveying section 40AB, plate member 45, and plate member 46. The object conveying unit 40 is an example of an object conveying mechanism.

[0063] The object conveying unit 40AA conveys the decolorized object 200 provided by the user to the solvent supply position, and then conveys the decolorized object 200, which has been supplied with solvent 400 at the solvent supply position, to the object conveying unit 40AB. The object conveying unit 40AA includes a motor 41AA, a conveyor belt 42AA, rollers 43AA and 44AA.

[0064] Motor 41AA is a motor that rotates roller 43AA under the control of control unit 10. Furthermore, control unit 10 controls motor 41AA to rotate roller 43AA counterclockwise. If roller 43AA rotates counterclockwise, conveyor belt 42AA also rotates counterclockwise, and the object to be decolorized 200 disposed on conveyor belt 42AA moves downstream in the conveying path. The downstream direction of the conveying path is... Figure 2 The left direction in the diagram is the positive direction of the Y-axis.

[0065] The conveyor belt 42AA is used to transport the decolorized object 200 disposed on the conveyor belt 42AA. The conveyor belt 42AA transports the decolorized object 200, which has not been given solvent 400, to the solvent-giving position. The conveyor belt 42AA is suspended on rollers 43AA and 44AA and rotates as roller 43AA rotates. The conveyor belt 42AA is an example of a first conveyor belt.

[0066] Roller 43AA is used to rotate the conveyor belt 42AA. Roller 43AA has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction and rotates according to the drive of motor 41AA. Roller 44AA is a roller paired with roller 43AA. Roller 44AA has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction and rotates with the rotation of conveyor belt 42AA.

[0067] The object conveying unit 40AB conveys the decolorized object 200, which has been given solvent 400, to the hot pressing position, and then conveys the decolorized object 200 that has been hot-pressed at the hot pressing position to the recycling bin 70. The object conveying unit 40AB includes a motor 41AB, a conveyor belt 42AB, rollers 43AB and 44AB.

[0068] Motor 41AB is a motor that rotates roller 43AB under the control of control unit 10. In addition, control unit 10 controls motor 41AB to rotate roller 43AB counterclockwise. If roller 43AB rotates counterclockwise, conveyor belt 42AB also rotates counterclockwise, and the decolorized object 200 disposed on conveyor belt 42AB moves downstream in the conveying path.

[0069] The conveyor belt 42AB is used to transport the decolorized object 200 disposed on the conveyor belt 42AB. The conveyor belt 42AB transports the decolorized object 200, which has been given solvent 400, to the hot pressing position. The conveyor belt 42AB is suspended on rollers 43AB and 44AB and rotates as roller 43AB rotates. The conveyor belt 42AB is an example of a second conveyor belt.

[0070] Roller 43AB is used to rotate the conveyor belt 42AB. Roller 43AB has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction and rotates according to the drive of motor 41AB. Roller 44AB is a roller paired with roller 43AB. Roller 44AB has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction and rotates as the conveyor belt 43AB rotates.

[0071] Plate-shaped member 45 is a flat plate. Plate-shaped member 45 is arranged to straddle conveyor belts 42AA and 42AB. Plate-shaped member 45 delivers the decolorized object 200, which has been conveyed to the left end of conveyor belt 42AA, to the right end of conveyor belt 42AB. Plate-shaped member 46 is a flat plate. Plate-shaped member 46 is arranged to straddle conveyor belt 42AB and recycling bin 70. Plate-shaped member 46 drains the decolorized object 200, which has been conveyed to the left end of conveyor belt 42AB, into recycling bin 70.

[0072] The absorbent conveying unit 50, in conjunction with the conveying of the object to be decolorized 200, conveys the absorbent 300 to the hot pressing position. The absorbent conveying unit 50 stretches the coiled absorbent 300 and supplies it to the hot pressing position, where it coils the hot-pressed absorbent 300 back into a roll for recycling. The absorbent conveying unit 50 includes a motor 51, rollers 52 and 53. The absorbent conveying unit 50 is an example of an absorbent conveying mechanism.

[0073] Motor 51 is a motor that rotates roller 52 under the control of control unit 10. In addition, control unit 10 controls motor 51 to rotate roller 52 counterclockwise. If roller 52 rotates counterclockwise, absorbent 300 wound on roller 53 is stretched, and the stretched absorbent 300 is wound around roller 52.

[0074] Roller 52 is a roller that winds the absorbent 300 released by roller 53. Roller 52 winds the absorbent 300, which has absorbed the pigment-containing solvent 400 contained in the decolorized object 200. Roller 52 has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction and is driven by motor 51. Roller 52 is an example of a second winding roller.

[0075] Roller 53 is a roller that releases the absorbent 300 wound into a roll. Roller 53 is a roller on which the absorbent 300 is wound with the absorbent solvent 400. Roller 53 has a rotation axis (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction, and rotates counterclockwise to release the absorbent 300 as roller 52 winds the absorbent 300. Roller 53 is an example of a second release roller.

[0076] In the hot pressing position, the hot pressing unit 60 performs hot pressing while applying heat and pressure to the decolorizing object 200, which is supplied with solvent 400, and the absorbent 300 overlapping with the decolorizing object 200. The hot pressing unit 60 includes a heater 61, a motor 62, and a moving part 63. The hot pressing unit 60 is an example of a hot pressing mechanism.

[0077] Heater 61 is a heater controlled by control unit 10 for heating the plate-shaped member 64 included in moving part 63. Motor 62 is a motor controlled by control unit 10 to move moving part 63 in the vertical direction. When motor 62 is driven by control unit 10, moving part 63 moves in the vertical direction along guide members (not shown) provided on support columns 85 and 86.

[0078] The moving part 63 is a component that moves vertically by being driven by the motor 62. The moving part 63 includes a plate-shaped component 64. The plate-shaped component 64 is a flat plate. When the moving part 63 descends, the plate-shaped component 64 is pressed against the absorbent 300. If the moving part 63 descends further, the absorbent 300 pressed by the plate-shaped component 64 is pressed against the decolorized object 200. At this time, the plate-shaped component 64, together with the conveyor belt 42AB, clamps the decolorized object 200 and the absorbent 300, applies pressure to the decolorized object 200 and the absorbent 300, and heats the decolorized object 200 and the absorbent 300.

[0079] The recycling bin 70 is for recycling the decolorized material 200. The decolorized, sheet-like material 200 is sequentially fed into the recycling bin 70. The supplied decolorized material 200 is stacked and stored in the recycling bin 70.

[0080] Support columns 81, 82, 83, and 84 are supports for the absorber conveying section 50. Support columns 81 and 82 support roller 52 so that it can rotate, and support columns 83 and 84 support roller 53 so that it can rotate. Support columns 85 and 86 are supports for the hot pressing section 60. Support columns 85 and 86 support the moving section 63 so that it can move.

[0081] Next, refer to Figure 3The main functions of the control unit 10 will be described in detail. Functionally, the control unit 10 includes an ejection control unit 11, a movement control unit 12, a first conveying control unit 13, a second conveying control unit 14, a heating control unit 15, and a pressing control unit 16. These functions are implemented through software, firmware, or a combination of both. The software and firmware are described as programs and stored in the ROM or storage unit 21. The CPU then implements these functions by executing the programs stored in the ROM or storage unit 21.

[0082] The ejection control unit 11 controls the ejection of the solvent 400 by the ejection nozzle 31. The ejection control unit 11 controls the ejection nozzle 31 to eject particles of the solvent 400. For example, while the ejection nozzle 31 is moving on the object to be decolorized 200, the ejection control unit 11 causes the ejection nozzle 31 to continuously eject the solvent 400, so as to eject the solvent 400 onto the entire object to be decolorized 200 disposed at the solvent delivery position.

[0083] The movement control unit 12 controls the movement of the nozzle 31. The movement control unit 12 controls the movement of the nozzle 31 so that it passes over the entire decolorized object 200 positioned at the solvent supply location. Specifically, for example, the movement control unit 12 repeatedly performs scanning and displacement processing until the nozzle 31 moves from one end of the decolorized object 200 in the sub-scanning direction to the other end of the decolorized object 200 in the sub-scanning direction.

[0084] The scanning process involves controlling the motor 32AA to move the nozzle 31 from one end of the object to be decolorized 200 in the main scanning direction to the other end of the object to be decolorized 200 in the main scanning direction. The displacement process involves controlling the motor 32AB to displace the nozzle 31 by a certain distance in the secondary scanning direction.

[0085] The first transport control unit 13 controls the object transport unit 40, thereby controlling the transport of the decolorized object 200. Specifically, when the user supplies the decolorized object 200 to the transport belt 42AA, the first transport control unit 13 controls the motor 41AA to transport the decolorized object 200 before solvent application to the solvent application position. Furthermore, after the solvent is applied to the decolorized object 200 at the solvent application position, the first transport control unit 13 controls the motor 41AA to transport the decolorized object 200 after solvent application via the plate member 45 to the transport belt 42AB.

[0086] Furthermore, when the first conveying control unit 13 supplies the solvent-treated decolorized object 200 onto the conveyor belt 42AB, it controls the motor 41AB to convey the solvent-treated decolorized object 200 to the hot pressing position. After performing hot pressing on the decolorized object 200 at the hot pressing position, the first conveying control unit 13 controls the motor 41AB to convey the hot-pressed decolorized object 200 via the plate-shaped member 46 to the recycling bin 70.

[0087] The second conveying control unit 14 controls the absorbent conveying unit 50, thereby controlling the conveying of the absorbent 300. Specifically, when the decolorized object 200 after being supplied with solvent is conveyed to the hot pressing position, the second conveying control unit 14 controls the motor 51 to pull out the absorbent 300 before hot pressing from the roller 53 and convey the pulled-out absorbent 300 to the hot pressing position. Furthermore, after hot pressing the decolorized object 200 and the absorbent 300 at the hot pressing position, the second conveying control unit 14 controls the motor 51 to cause the roller 52 to wind the hot-pressed absorbent 300.

[0088] The heating control unit 15 controls the heating of the decolorized object 200 and the absorber 300 by the hot pressing unit 60. Specifically, when the decolorized object 200 and the absorber 300, after being supplied with solvent, are transported to the hot pressing position, the heating control unit 15 heats the heater 61 to heat the plate-shaped member 64. If the absorber 300, pressed against the decolorized object 200 by the plate-shaped member 64, is pressed against the decolorized object 200, the decolorized object 200 and the absorber 300 are heated. Ideally, the heating control unit 15 heats the decolorized object 200 and the absorber 300 to a temperature high enough to fully dissolve the pigment contained in the decolorized object 200 into the solvent 400, and low enough to prevent the solvent 400 from evaporating. For example, ideally, the heating control unit 15 heats the decolorized object 200 and the absorber 300 to a temperature of about 120°C to 150°C.

[0089] The pressing control unit 16 controls the pressurization of the decolorized object 200 and the absorbent 300 by the hot pressing unit 60. Specifically, when the decolorized object 200 and the absorbent 300, after being supplied with solvent, are transported to the hot pressing position, the pressing control unit 16 controls the motor 62 to lower the moving part 63, which includes the plate-shaped member 64. The pressing control unit 16 lowers the moving part 63 until the plate-shaped member 64 is pressed against the absorbent 300, and then the absorbent 300 is pressed against the decolorized object 200. After pressurizing the decolorized object 200 and the absorbent 300 for a certain period of time, the pressing control unit 16 raises the moving part 63.

[0090] Ideally, the control unit 10 controls the object conveying unit 40 and the absorbent conveying unit 50 so that multiple hot-pressing operations are not performed on the same location for either the decolorized object 200 or the absorbent 300. That is, if hot-pressing is performed at a hot-pressing location, the control unit 10, before performing the next hot-pressing operation, will move a new decolorized object 200 to the hot-pressing location via the object conveying unit 40 and move unused absorbent 300 to the hot-pressing location via the absorbent conveying unit 50.

[0091] In this way, the control unit 10 avoids performing multiple hot pressing operations on a single decolorizing object 200 by switching portions of the absorber 300 in order to conserve absorber 300. Furthermore, the control unit 10 avoids performing hot pressing operations on multiple decolorizing objects 200 on the same portion of the absorber 300 in order to achieve proper decolorization.

[0092] In this embodiment, the processes of applying solvent 400 to the object to be decolorized 200, hot-pressing the object to be decolorized 200 and the absorber 300, transferring the object to be decolorized 200 to the solvent application position, transferring the object to be decolorized 200 to the hot-pressing position, and transferring the absorber 300 to the hot-pressing position are performed automatically. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200 can be decolorized without burdening the user.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is controlled so that multiple hot-pressing operations are not performed on the same location for either the object to be decolorized 200 or the absorber 300. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200 can be appropriately decolorized while saving the absorber 300.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the decolorized object 200 is transported to the solvent supply position by conveyor belt 42AA, and to the hot pressing position by conveyor belt 42AB. Therefore, according to this embodiment, for example, decolorized objects 200 that are difficult to roll into a roll can be appropriately transported.

[0095] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the spray nozzle 31 sprays solvent 400 onto the surface of the object to be decolorized 200. Therefore, according to this embodiment, solvent 400 can be appropriately applied to the object to be decolorized 200 being conveyed by the conveyor belt 42AA.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the absorbent 300 is transported by winding the absorbent 300 released from the roller 53 around the roller 52. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the absorbent 300 wound into a roll can be transported with a simple structure.

[0097] (Implementation Method 2)

[0098] In Embodiment 1, an example was described of conveying a thin, flat sheet-like decolorized object 200 by rotating conveyor belts 42AA and 42AB. In this embodiment, an example is described of conveying a decolorized object 200B wound into a roll by winding. Hereinafter, descriptions of structures and functions that are the same as in Embodiment 1 will be omitted or simplified.

[0099] In this embodiment, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The structure of the decolorization apparatus 100B is described, and reference is made to... Figure 6 The function of the decolorization device 100B will be explained. Furthermore, in Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 In this document, for non-characteristic structures in the decolorization apparatus 100B, illustrations and labels have been appropriately omitted. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the appearance of the decolorizing device 100B. Figure 5 This is a side view of the decolorizing apparatus 100B. Furthermore, in Figure 5 For ease of understanding, the illustrations of the frame, cover, etc., which are not closely related to the operation of the decolorizing device 100B, are omitted. The main structures related to the operation of the decolorizing device 100B are shown in solid lines. Figure 6 This is a diagram used to illustrate the function of the decolorization device 100B.

[0100] The decolorizing apparatus 100B is an apparatus for decolorizing the object to be decolorized 200B, and is an apparatus for removing pigments from the object to be decolorized 200B. The decolorizing apparatus 100B performs a series of processes, including providing solvent 400 to the object to be decolorized 200B, hot-pressing the object to be decolorized 200B and absorbent 300, conveying the object to be decolorized 200B, and supplying absorbent 300 to the object to be decolorized 200B.

[0101] In this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200B is rolled into a roll before decolorization, stretched during decolorization, and rolled into a roll again after decolorization. That is, in this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200B has a long strip shape with a thickness sufficiently shorter than its width and a length sufficiently longer than its width. The object to be decolorized 200B can be constructed, for example, by connecting multiple towels, T-shirts, flags, banners, etc. As a method of connection, sewing can be considered.

[0102] The decolorizing apparatus 100B includes an operation unit 5B, a solvent supply unit 30B, a target material conveying unit 40B, an absorbent conveying unit 50B, and a hot-pressing unit 60B. The operation unit 5B is a module used to operate the target material conveying unit 40B, the absorbent conveying unit 50B, the hot-pressing unit 60B, and other units. The operation unit 5B includes a control unit 10B, a storage unit 21, a display unit 22, an operation receiving unit 23, and a communication unit 24. The control unit 10B has the same physical structure as the control unit 10. The control unit 10B is an example of a control mechanism.

[0103] The solvent dispensing unit 30B dispenses solvent 400, which extracts pigments contained in the decolorized object 200B, to the decolorized object 200B at a solvent dispensing position. In this embodiment, the solvent dispensing unit 30B dispenses solvent 400 to the decolorized object 200B by immersing it in the solvent 400. The solvent dispensing unit 30B includes a solvent storage tank 31B. The solvent storage tank 31B is a container for storing solvent 400. The solvent storage tank 31B is disposed on the transport path of the decolorized object 200B. The solvent dispensing unit 30B is an example of a solvent dispensing mechanism.

[0104] The object conveying unit 40B conveys the untreated object 200B to the solvent-applied position and the solvent-applied object 200B to the hot-pressing position. The object conveying unit 40B conveys the object 200B by winding. The object conveying unit 40B includes motors 41BA, 41BB, and 41BC, rollers 42B, 43B, 44B, 45BA, 45BB, 45BC, 45BD, 45BE, 45BF, 45BG, 45BH, 45BI, and 46B, support units 47BA and 47BB, and a tension bar 48B. The object conveying unit 40B is an example of an object conveying mechanism.

[0105] Motor 41BA is a motor that rotates roller 42B under the control of control unit 10B. Furthermore, control unit 10B controls motor 41BA to rotate roller 42B counterclockwise. When roller 42B rotates counterclockwise, the decolorized object 200B stretched from roller 43B is wound around roller 42B.

[0106] Motor 41BB is a motor that rotates roller 44B under the control of control unit 10B. Furthermore, control unit 10B controls motor 41BB to rotate roller 44B clockwise. When roller 44B rotates clockwise, the object to be decolorized 200B wound on roller 43B is stretched.

[0107] Motor 41BC is a motor that moves roller 46B in the vertical direction under the control of control unit 10B. When motor 41BC is driven under the control of control unit 10B, the support part 47BA and support part 47BB that support roller 46B to rotate move in the vertical direction.

[0108] Roller 42B is a roller that winds the decolorized object 200B stretched from roller 43B. Roller 42B winds the decolorized object 200B. Roller 42B has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction and rotates according to a drive performed by motor 41BA. Furthermore, in Figure 4 For ease of understanding, the illustration of roller 42B is omitted. Roller 42B is an example of the first winding roller.

[0109] Roller 43B is a roller that releases the decolorized object 200B wound into a roll. Roller 43B has the decolorized object 200B wound on it before decolorization. Roller 43B has a rotation axis (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction, and rotates counterclockwise to release the decolorized object 200B as roller 44B stretches the decolorized object 200B. Roller 43B is an example of a first release roller.

[0110] Roller 44B is a roller that stretches the decolorized object 200B from roller 43B. Roller 44B has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction and rotates according to the drive of motor 41BB.

[0111] Rollers 45BA, 45BB, 45BC, 45BD, 45BE, 45BF, 45BG, 45BH, and 45BI are conveying rollers for guiding the decolorized object 200B, and have a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction.

[0112] Roller 45BA is a roller disposed between tension bar 48B and roller 45BB. Roller 45BB is a roller used to immerse the decolorized object 200B into the solvent 400 in the solvent storage tank 31B. Roller 45BC is a roller that, together with roller 44B, clamps the decolorized object 200B and feeds the decolorized object 200B downstream in the conveying path.

[0113] Roller 45BD is the roller positioned between rollers 45BC and 45BE. Roller 45BE is the roller positioned between rollers 45BD and 45BF. Roller 45BF is the roller positioned between rollers 45BE and 45BG. Roller 45BG is the roller positioned between rollers 45BF and 45BH. Roller 45BH is the roller that, together with roller 42B, holds the object to be decolorized 200B. Roller 45BI is the roller connected to the object to be decolorized 200B wound on roller 42B, and rotates as roller 42B rotates.

[0114] Roller 46B is an auxiliary roller for winding the decolorized object 200B by roller 42B. That is, by moving roller 46B, which is positioned below the decolorized object 200B, upward and then downward, the decolorized object 200B is stretched and relaxed. The relaxed decolorized object 200B is then wound by roller 42B.

[0115] Supports 47BA and 47BB are components that support roller 46B so that it can rotate. Supports 47BA and 47BB move vertically by being driven by motor 41BC. Tension bar 48B is a component used to adjust the tension of the decolorized object 200B pulled out from roller 43B. Tension bar 48B has an opening for the decolorized object 200B to pass through (see reference). Figure 4 ).

[0116] The absorbent conveying unit 50B, in conjunction with the conveying of the decolorized object 200B, transports the absorbent 300 to the hot pressing position. The absorbent conveying unit 50B stretches the coiled absorbent 300 and supplies it to the hot pressing position, where it coils the hot-pressed absorbent 300 back into a roll for recycling. The absorbent conveying unit 50B includes a motor 51B, rollers 52B, 53B, 54B, and 55B. The absorbent conveying unit 50B is an example of an absorbent conveying mechanism.

[0117] Motor 51B is a motor that rotates roller 52B under the control of control unit 10B. In addition, control unit 10B controls motor 51B to rotate roller 52B counterclockwise. If roller 52B rotates counterclockwise, absorbent 300 wound on roller 53B is stretched, and the stretched absorbent 300 is wound around roller 52B.

[0118] Roller 52B is a roller that winds the absorber 300 released from roller 53B. Roller 52B winds the absorber 300 after absorbing the solvent 400. Roller 52B has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction and rotates according to the drive of motor 51B. Roller 52B is an example of a second winding roller.

[0119] Roller 53B is a roller that releases the absorbent 300 wound into a roll. Roller 53B is a roller on which the absorbent 300 is wound with the absorbent solvent 400. Roller 53B has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction, and rotates counterclockwise to release the absorbent 300 as roller 52B winds the absorbent 300. Roller 53B is an example of a second release roller.

[0120] Rollers 54B and 55B are conveying rollers that guide the absorber 300. Rollers 54B and 55B have a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction. Roller 54B is disposed between rollers 53B and 55B. Roller 55B is disposed between rollers 54B and 52B.

[0121] In the hot pressing position, the hot pressing unit 60B performs hot pressing while applying heat and pressure to the decolorizing object 200B, which is supplied with solvent 400, and the absorber 300 overlapping with the decolorizing object 200B. The hot pressing unit 60B includes a heater 61B, a motor 62B, a moving part 63B, rollers 64B and 65B, and a plate-shaped member 66B. The hot pressing unit 60B is an example of a hot pressing mechanism.

[0122] Heater 61B is a heater used to heat plate member 66B under the control of control unit 10B. Motor 62B is a motor that moves moving part 63B in the left-right direction under the control of control unit 10B. When motor 62B is driven under the control of control unit 10B, moving part 63B moves in the left-right direction along guide member (not shown).

[0123] The moving part 63B is a component that moves under the control of the control part 10B. During hot pressing, the moving part 63B moves to the right, clamping the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300 between itself and the plate-shaped member 66B. The moving part 63B clamps the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300 in a conveyable state between itself and the plate-shaped member 66B by pressing rollers 64B and 65B against the decolorized object 200B. Rollers 64B and 65B are rollers used to clamp the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300 between themselves and the plate-shaped member 66B in a movable manner. Rollers 64B and 65B are rotatably assembled in the moving part 63B.

[0124] The plate-shaped member 66B is a flat plate. The plate-shaped member 66B is heated by the heater 61B. The plate-shaped member 66B heats the decolorizing object 200B and the absorber 300 while holding them between itself and the moving part 63B.

[0125] Next, refer to Figure 6 The main functions of the control unit 10B will be described in detail. The control unit 10B functionally includes a first conveying control unit 13, a second conveying control unit 14, a heating control unit 15, and a pressing control unit 16. That is, the control unit 10B has the same structure as the control unit 10, except that it does not include the ejection control unit 11 and the movement control unit 12.

[0126] The first conveying control unit 13 controls the object conveying unit 40B, thereby controlling the conveying of the decolorized object 200B. Specifically, the first conveying control unit 13 controls the motor 41BB to pull the decolorized object 200B out from the roller 43B, so that the pulled-out decolorized object 200B passes through the solvent 400 in the solvent storage tank 31B, and the solvent-treated decolorized object 200B is conveyed to the hot pressing position.

[0127] In addition, after the first conveying control unit 13 performs hot pressing on the decolorized object 200B at the hot pressing position, it controls the motors 41BA and 41BC to loosen the decolorized object 200B after hot pressing and wind it onto the roller 42B.

[0128] The second conveying control unit 14 controls the absorbent conveying unit 50B, thereby controlling the conveying of the absorbent 300. Specifically, when the decolorized object 200B, after being supplied with solvent, is conveyed to the hot pressing position, the second conveying control unit 14 controls the motor 51B to pull out the absorbent 300 before hot pressing from the roller 53B and convey the pulled-out absorbent 300 to the hot pressing position. Furthermore, after hot pressing the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300 at the hot pressing position, the second conveying control unit 14 controls the motor 51B to cause the roller 52B to wind the hot-pressed absorbent 300.

[0129] The heating control unit 15 controls the heating of the decolorized material 200B and the absorber 300 by the hot pressing unit 60B. Specifically, when the decolorized material 200B and the absorber 300, after being supplied with solvent, are transported to the hot pressing position, the heating control unit 15 heats the heater 61B to heat the plate-shaped member 66B. Furthermore, if the decolorized material 200B and the absorber 300 are pressed against the plate-shaped member 66B by the moving part 63B, the decolorized material 200B and the absorber 300 are heated. The heating control unit 15 can continuously heat the transported decolorized material 200B and the absorber 300.

[0130] The pressing control unit 16 controls the pressurization of the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300 by the hot pressing unit 60B. Specifically, when the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300, after being supplied with solvent, are transported to the hot pressing position, the pressing control unit 16 controls the motor 62B to move the moving part 63B toward the plate-shaped member 66B until the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300 are pressed against the plate-shaped member 66B by the moving part 63B. The pressing control unit 16 can continuously pressurize the transported decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300.

[0131] Ideally, the control unit 10B controls the object conveying unit 40B and the absorbent conveying unit 50B so that multiple hot-pressing operations are not performed on the same location for either the decolorized object 200B or the absorbent 300. For example, ideally, the control unit 10B continuously performs hot-pressing on the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300 while conveying them at the same speed. That is, ideally, the un-hot-pressed portions of the decolorized object 200B and the un-hot-pressed portions of the absorbent 300 are continuously overlapped and hot-pressed.

[0132] In this embodiment, the same effects as in Embodiment 1 can be achieved. That is, according to this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200B can be decolorized without burdening the user. In addition, according to this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200B can be decolorized appropriately while saving absorbent 300. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the absorbent 300 wound into a roll can be transported with a simple structure.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the decolorized object 200B is transported by winding it into a roll. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the decolorized object 200B wound into a roll can be transported with a simple structure.

[0134] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200B is transported along a transport path through the solvent 400 stored in the solvent storage tank 31B. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is not necessary to control the application of the solvent 400 to the object to be decolorized 200B.

[0135] (Implementation Method 3)

[0136] In Embodiment 2, an example using an absorbent 300 wound into a roll shape was described. In this embodiment, an example using an absorbent 300C formed into a sheet shape will be described. Hereinafter, descriptions of structures, functions, etc., that are the same as in Embodiments 1 and 2 will be omitted or simplified.

[0137] In this embodiment, refer to Figure 7 The structure of the decolorization device 100C is described, and reference is made to... Figure 8 The function of the decolorization device 100C will be explained. Furthermore, in Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this document, non-characteristic structures in the decolorizing apparatus 100C have been appropriately omitted from illustrations and labeled. Furthermore, the appearance of the decolorizing apparatus 100C is essentially the same as that of the decolorizing apparatus 100B. Figure 7 This is a side view of the decolorizing device 100C. Figure 8 This is a diagram used to illustrate the function of the decolorization device 100C.

[0138] The decolorizing apparatus 100C is an apparatus for decolorizing the object to be decolorized 200B, and is an apparatus for removing pigments from the object to be decolorized 200B. The decolorizing apparatus 100C performs a series of processes, including supplying solvent 400 to the object to be decolorized 200B, hot-pressing the object to be decolorized 200B and absorber 300C, conveying the object to be decolorized 200B, and supplying absorber 300C to the object to be decolorized 200B.

[0139] In this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200B is rolled into a roll before decolorization, stretched during decolorization, and rolled into a roll again after decolorization. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the absorbent 300C is not rolled into a roll, but is formed into sheets that are taken out one by one during use.

[0140] The decolorizing apparatus 100C includes an operation unit 5B, a solvent supply unit 30B, a target material conveying unit 40B, an absorbent conveying unit 50C, and a hot pressing unit 60B. That is, the decolorizing apparatus 100C has the same structure as the decolorizing apparatus 100B, except that the absorbent conveying unit 50C replaces the absorbent conveying unit 50B.

[0141] The absorbent conveying unit 50C, in conjunction with the conveying of the decolorizing object 200B, transports the absorbent 300C to the hot pressing position. The absorbent conveying unit 50C removes each absorbent 300C stored in the supply tray 52C and supplies it to the hot pressing position, then transports the hot-pressed absorbent 300C to the recycling tray 56C for recovery. The absorbent conveying unit 50C includes a motor 51C, a supply tray 52C, rollers 53C, guide members 54C, rollers 55C, and a recycling tray 56C. The absorbent conveying unit 50C is an example of an absorbent conveying mechanism.

[0142] Motor 51C is a motor that rotates roller 53C under the control of control unit 10B. In addition, control unit 10B controls motor 51C to rotate roller 53C clockwise. When roller 53C rotates clockwise, the uppermost absorber 300C among the plurality of absorbers 300C housed in supply tray 52C is discharged to the outside of supply tray 52C.

[0143] The supply tray 52C is a tray for supplying absorbents 300C formed in sheet shape. The supply tray 52C houses multiple overlapping absorbents 300C. The supply tray 52C is one example of a supply tray. The roller 53C is a roller that feeds the absorbents 300 housed in the supply tray 52C towards the hot-pressing position. The roller 53C has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction and rotates according to a drive performed by a motor 51C. The roller 53C is one example of a supply roller.

[0144] Guide member 54C is a component that guides the absorbent 300C discharged from supply tray 52C to roller 55C. Roller 55C is a conveying roller that guides the absorbent 300C. Roller 55C is positioned at the point where the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300C meet. Roller 55C has a rotating shaft (not shown) extending in the X-axis direction.

[0145] The recycling tray 56C is a tray for recycling used absorbent 300C. The recycling tray 56C includes an inclined portion 56CA extending obliquely outward from the side of the recycling tray 56C. The inclined portion 56CA has the function of peeling the used absorbent 300C, which is in close contact with the decolorized object 200B by heat pressing, from the decolorized object 200B. Ideally, the recycling tray 56C is configured such that the top of the inclined portion 56CA contacts the surface of the decolorized object 200B during transport. The absorbent 300C peeled from the decolorized object 200B by the inclined portion 56CA is housed inside the recycling tray 56C. The inclined portion 56CA is an example of a peeling mechanism.

[0146] Next, refer to Figure 8 The functions of the control unit 10B, and especially the functions of the second conveying control unit 14, will be explained.

[0147] The second conveying control unit 14 controls the absorbent conveying unit 50C, thereby controlling the conveying of the absorbent 300C. Specifically, when the decolorized object 200B, after being supplied with solvent, is conveyed to the hot pressing position, the second conveying control unit 14 controls the motor 51C to pull out an absorbent 300C before hot pressing from the supply tray 52C and convey the pulled-out absorbent 300C to the hot pressing position. Furthermore, at the hot pressing position, the absorbent 300C, which is being hot-pressed together with the decolorized object 200B, is automatically detached from the decolorized object 200B and stored in the recovery tray 56C.

[0148] Ideally, the control unit 10B controls the object conveying unit 40B and the absorbent conveying unit 50C so that multiple hot-pressing operations are not performed on the same location for either the decolorized object 200B or the absorbent 300C. For example, ideally, the control unit 10B continuously performs hot-pressing on the decolorized object 200B and the absorbent 300C while conveying them at the same speed. That is, ideally, the portion of the decolorized object 200B that has not been hot-pressed is overlapped with the portion of the absorbent 300C that has not been hot-pressed and then hot-pressed without gaps.

[0149] In this embodiment, the same effects as in Embodiment 2 can be achieved. That is, according to this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200B can be decolorized without burdening the user. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the object to be decolorized 200B can be appropriately decolorized while conserving absorbent 300C. Additionally, according to this embodiment, it is not necessary to control the application of solvent 400 to the object to be decolorized 200B.

[0150] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sheet-like absorbent 300C housed in the supply tray 52C is fed towards the hot-pressing position. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the sheet-like absorbent 300C can be used to properly decolorize the rolled-up object 200B.

[0151] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the absorbent 300C, which is tightly attached to the object to be decolorized 200B by the pressure applied by the hot-pressing section 60B, is automatically detached from the object to be decolorized 200B by the inclined section 56CA. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the used sheet-like absorbent 300C can be recycled with a simple structure.

[0152] (Variation example)

[0153] The above describes the implementation methods, but they can be modified and applied in various forms. The choice of which part of the structure, function, or action described in the implementation methods is arbitrary. Furthermore, in addition to the described structure, function, and action, further structures, functions, and actions can be employed. Moreover, the structures, functions, and actions described in the implementation methods can be freely combined.

[0154] For example, in Embodiment 1, an example of using an absorbent 300 wound into a roll shape is described. In Embodiment 1, a sheet-shaped absorbent 300C may also be used, as in Embodiment 3.

[0155] In Embodiments 2 and 3, an example is described in which the solvent 400 is applied to the decolorized object 200B by passing it through the solvent 400 in the solvent storage tank 31B. In Embodiments 2 and 3, the solvent 400 can also be applied to the decolorized object 200B by inkjet printing, as in Embodiment 1.

[0156] In Embodiment 3, an example is described where the recycling tray 56C includes an inclined portion 56CA that functions to peel the absorbent 300C from the decolorized object 200B. The inclined portion 56CA may also be provided separately from the recycling tray 56C.

[0157] In the implementation, in the control unit 10 and control unit 10B, the CPU executes a program stored in the ROM or storage unit 21, thereby acting as... Figure 3 , Figure 6, Figure 8 Each component shown performs its function. However, in this disclosure, the control unit 10 and control unit 10B can be dedicated hardware. Dedicated hardware includes, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmable processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a combination thereof. When the control unit 10 and control unit 10B are dedicated hardware, the functions of each component can be implemented using individual hardware, or the functions of each component can be implemented by a single hardware unit. Furthermore, in the functions of each component, one part can be implemented by dedicated hardware, and another part can be implemented by software or firmware. In this way, the control unit 10 and control unit 10B can implement the aforementioned functions through hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0158] Various embodiments and modifications can be made to this disclosure without departing from its broad spirit and scope. Furthermore, the embodiments described are illustrative and do not limit the scope of this disclosure. That is, the scope of this disclosure is not shown by the embodiments, but by the claims. Moreover, various modifications made within the scope of the claims and their equivalents are considered to be within the scope of this disclosure.

[0159] Explanation of icon numbers

[0160] 5. 5B: Operation Section

[0161] 10, 10B: Control Department

[0162] 11: Ejection Control Unit

[0163] 12: Motion Control Department

[0164] 13: First transport control department

[0165] 14: Second Transfer Control Department

[0166] 15: Heating Control Unit

[0167] 16: Suppression Control Department

[0168] 21: Storage Department

[0169] 22: Display Section

[0170] 23: Operations and Acceptance Department

[0171] 24: Ministry of Communications

[0172] 30, 30B: Solvent-converting section

[0173] 31: Spray nozzle

[0174] 31B: Solvent storage tank

[0175] 32AA, 32AB, 41AA, 41AB, 41BA, 41BB, 41BC, 51, 51B, 51C, 62, 62B: Motors

[0176] 33: Jar

[0177] 34: Hose

[0178] 35: Nozzle support section

[0179] 36, 63, 63B: Mobility Unit

[0180] 37, 54C: Guiding components

[0181] 38: Guide component support part

[0182] 39: Support platform

[0183] 39A: Guide rail

[0184] 40, 40AA, 40AB, 40B: Object transport department

[0185] 42AA, 42AB: Conveyor belts

[0186] 42B, 43AA, 43AB, 43B, 44AA, 44AB, 44B, 45BA, 45BB, 45BC, 45BD, 45BE, 45BF, 45BG, 45BH, 45BI, 46B, 52, 52B, 53, 53B, 53C, 54B, 55B, 55C, 64B, 65B: Rollers

[0187] 45, 46, 64, 66B: Plate-like members

[0188] 47BA, 47BB: Support section

[0189] 48B: Tension bar

[0190] 50, 50B, 50C: Absorber transport section

[0191] 52C: Supply Pallet

[0192] 56C: Recycling Pallets

[0193] 56CA: Inclined section

[0194] 60, 60B: Hot pressing section

[0195] 61, 61B: Heater

[0196] 70: Recycling bin

[0197] 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86: Pillars

[0198] 100, 100B, 100C: Decolorization apparatus

[0199] 200, 200B: Objects to be decolorized

[0200] 300, 300C: Absorber

[0201] 400: Solvent

Claims

1. A decolorizing device, comprising: A solvent applicator applies a solvent to a decolorized object containing fibers stained with pigment, the solvent being capable of removing the pigment from the fibers; A hot pressing mechanism applies heat and pressure to the decolorized object to which the solvent has been applied, and to an absorbent that overlaps with the decolorized object and absorbs the solvent containing the pigment from the decolorized object. The object conveying mechanism conveys the decolorized object without the solvent to the solvent-conducting position, and conveys the decolorized object with the solvent to the hot-pressing position; as well as The absorbent conveying mechanism, in conjunction with the conveying of the decolorized object, conveys the absorbent to the hot pressing position.

2. The decolorizing device according to claim 1, comprising a control mechanism, The control mechanism controls the object conveying mechanism and the absorbent conveying mechanism so that multiple hot pressings are not performed on the same location for either the decolorized object or the absorbent.

3. The decolorizing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the object conveying mechanism comprises: The first conveyor belt transports the decolorized object, which has not been given the solvent, to the location where the solvent is given; as well as The second conveyor belt transports the decolorized object, which has been coated with the solvent, to the hot pressing position.

4. The decolorizing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the object conveying mechanism comprises: The first release roller releases the decolorized object wound into a roll; as well as The first winding roller winds the decolorized object released by the first discharge roller.

5. The decolorizing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein... The solvent dispensing mechanism includes a solvent storage tank for storing the solvent. The object conveying mechanism conveys the decolorized object along a conveying path through the solvent stored in the solvent storage tank.

6. The decolorizing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The solvent delivery mechanism includes a nozzle that sprays the solvent onto the surface of the object to be decolorized.

7. The decolorizing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the absorbent conveying mechanism comprises: The second discharge roller discharges the absorbent body wound into a roll; as well as The second winding roller winds the absorbent released by the second discharge roller.

8. The decolorizing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the absorbent conveying mechanism comprises: A tray is provided to hold the absorbent body, which is formed into a sheet shape. as well as The supply roller delivers the absorbent housed in the supply tray toward the hot pressing position.

9. The decolorizing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the absorbent conveying mechanism includes a peeling mechanism that peels the absorbent, which is pressed against the decolorizing object by means of the hot-pressing mechanism, from the decolorizing object.

Images