recording device

Abstract

In an inkjet printer, if the recording head can be easily accessed when the cover is opened for paper jam processing, there is a possibility that the user touches the head face of the recording head and gets the fingers dirty with ink. The recording apparatus of the present invention solves the above problem. The recording apparatus of the present invention has: a first conveying path which opposes a liquid discharge head and conveys a medium; a second conveying path which connects with the first conveying path and bends and turns over the medium recorded by the liquid discharge head; an apparatus main body; a first unit which can take a first state in which the second conveying path is formed and a second state in which the second conveying path is opened; and a second unit which is a unit detachable with respect to the apparatus main body, and the second unit forms the second conveying path between the first unit in the installed state between the liquid discharge head and the first unit in which the first state is taken, and exposes the first conveying path in the detached state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording apparatus for performing recording on a medium. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus having a rotatable cover on the back of the apparatus, which exposes a sheet transport channel by opening the cover, thereby enabling paper jam handling.

[0003] In inkjet printers, if the printhead is easily accessible when the cover is opened for paper jam handling, there is a possibility that the user may touch the printhead and get their fingers smudged with ink.

[0004] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-070556. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The recording apparatus of the present invention, for solving the aforementioned problems, is characterized by comprising: a liquid ejector head that records by ejecting liquid onto a medium; a first transport path that is opposite the liquid ejector head and transports the medium; a second transport path that is connected to the first transport path and causes the medium recorded by the liquid ejector head to bend upward and flip; an apparatus body that includes the liquid ejector head, the first transport path, and the second transport path; a first unit capable of achieving a first state in which the second transport path is formed and a second state in which the second transport path is open; and a second unit that is detachable relative to the apparatus body, wherein the second unit forms the second transport path between itself and the first unit in the installed state, and exposes the first transport path in the detached state. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 A diagram showing the overall media delivery path of the printer.

[0007] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the process of wiping the head surface of a travel head using a wiping device.

[0008] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the device with the first and second units installed.

[0009] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the apparatus with the first unit removed and the second unit installed.

[0010] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the device with the first and second units removed.

[0011] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the device with the first and second units installed.

[0012] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the installation structure of the testing unit.

[0013] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the apparatus showing a state in which the installation of the first unit is hindered by the removal of the second unit.

[0014] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the posture of the rod after the second unit has been removed.

[0015] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the posture of the rod during the installation of the second unit.

[0016] Figure 11 A diagram showing the attitude of the rod with the second unit installed.

[0017] Figure 12 A side view of the device with the first and second units installed.

[0018] Figure 13 A side view of the device with the first unit removed and the second unit installed.

[0019] Figure 14 This is a 3D diagram of the second unit.

[0020] Figure 15 A diagram illustrating the structure that causes the medium to leave the path forming surface of the second unit. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The present invention will now be described in summary.

[0022] The recording device according to the first method is characterized by comprising: a liquid ejector head that records by ejecting liquid onto a medium; a first transport path that is opposite to the liquid ejector head and transports the medium; a second transport path that is connected to the first transport path and causes the medium recorded by the liquid ejector head to bend upward and flip; a device body that includes the liquid ejector head, the first transport path, and the second transport path; a first unit that is capable of obtaining a first state forming the second transport path and a second state opening the second transport path; and a second unit that is detachable relative to the device body, wherein the second unit forms the second transport path between itself and the first unit in the installed state, and exposes the first transport path in the disassembled state.

[0023] According to this method, since the second delivery path is opened by setting the first unit to the second state, the clogging medium can be removed. Here, even with the first unit in the second state, by mounting the second unit on the device body, approach to the liquid nozzle can be suppressed, thereby preventing the user from accidentally contacting the liquid nozzle and soiling their fingers.

[0024] Additionally, media that are small in size and become blocked before entering the second transport path at the top can be removed by exceptionally removing the second unit.

[0025] The second method is subordinate to the first method, characterized by comprising: a feed path that feeds the medium to the first conveying path; and a third conveying path located below the first conveying path, which receives the medium being conveyed in reverse on the second conveying path and guides the medium to the feed path, wherein the first unit forms the third conveying path in the first state and opens the third conveying path in the second state.

[0026] According to this method, since the third delivery path is opened by setting the first unit to the second state, the clogging medium can be removed. Furthermore, similarly to the above method, even with the first unit in the second state, by mounting the second unit on the device body, approach to the liquid nozzle can be suppressed, thereby preventing the user from accidentally contacting the liquid nozzle and soiling their fingers.

[0027] The third method is subordinate to the second method, characterized by having a limiting component that retracts from the occupied area of ​​the first unit when the second unit is in the installed state, and restricts the change of the first unit to the first state by intruding into the occupied area of ​​the first unit when the second unit is in the disassembled state.

[0028] According to this method, the limiting component can be used to prevent the first unit from becoming the first state when the second unit is removed.

[0029] Furthermore, this method is not limited to the second method mentioned above, but can also be subordinate to the first method mentioned above.

[0030] The fourth method is subordinate to the third method, characterized in that the limiting member has a first arm that can rotate about a rotation axis and engage with the first unit and a second arm that can engage with the second unit. When the second unit is removed, the first arm intrudes into the occupied area of ​​the first unit. When the second unit is installed, the first arm engages with the second unit, thereby causing the first arm to retract from the occupied area of ​​the first unit.

[0031] According to this method, by having a simple structure with a first arm and a second arm, it is possible to suppress the situation where the first unit becomes the first state when the second unit is removed.

[0032] The fifth method is a method subordinate to the third or fourth method, characterized in that it includes a detection unit that detects when the first unit is in the first state.

[0033] According to this method, the detection unit can detect whether the first unit is in the first state. Since the first unit cannot be switched to the first state by the limiting member if the second unit is not installed, the detection unit's detection of the first unit being in the first state indicates that the second unit is installed. That is, the detection unit can detect not only the installation of the first unit but also the installation of the second unit, eliminating the need for a dedicated structure for detecting the installation status of the second unit and thus reducing costs.

[0034] The sixth method is subordinate to the second method, characterized in that a pair of conveying rollers for conveying the medium is provided downstream of the liquid nozzle in the first conveying path. The pair of conveying rollers has a first roller and a second roller. The second roller is located above the first roller and is supported by the second unit. The second unit can switch between a clamping state and a clamping release state. The clamping state is a state in which the medium can be clamped by the first roller and the second roller by swinging around the swing axis in the installed state. The clamping release state is a state in which the second roller leaves the first roller. Furthermore, the second unit can engage with the first unit, and the clamping state is obtained by bearing external force from the first unit when the first unit is in the first state, and the clamping release state is obtained when the first unit is in the second state.

[0035] According to this method, if the first unit is set to the second state, since not only is the second conveying path open, but the second unit is also switched from the clamping state to the clamping release state, the medium is not easily constrained from the conveying roller pair when removing the stuck medium, thereby making it easy to remove the stuck medium.

[0036] Furthermore, this method is not limited to the second method mentioned above, but may also be subordinate to the first method mentioned above or any one of the third to fifth methods mentioned above.

[0037] The seventh method is a method subordinate to the second method, characterized in that the second unit has a recess on the path forming surface that forms the second conveying path, and the direction intersecting with the conveying direction of the medium is set as the width direction, and the recess is provided at the position through which the end of the medium in the width direction passes.

[0038] If media is adhered to the path forming surface, it is difficult to remove the media. However, according to this method, the user's finger can be inserted through the recess, making it easy to remove the media.

[0039] Furthermore, this method is not limited to the second method mentioned above, but can also be subordinate to the first method mentioned above or any one of the third to sixth methods mentioned above.

[0040] The present invention will now be described in detail.

[0041] In the following description, inkjet printer 1 will be used as an example of a recording device that performs recording on a medium. Hereinafter, inkjet printer 1 will be simply referred to as printer 1.

[0042] Furthermore, the XYZ coordinate system shown in the accompanying figures is an orthogonal coordinate system, and the direction in which the arrow points is called the + direction, and the opposite direction is called the - direction. The X-axis direction is the width direction of the device and is the width direction that intersects the transport direction of the medium being recorded. When viewed from the operator of printer 1, the +X direction is on the left and the -X direction is on the right. In the following text, the X-axis direction will sometimes be referred to as the media width direction or simply the width direction.

[0043] The Y-axis direction is the depth direction of the device and is also the direction along the media transport direction during recording. The +Y direction is the direction from the back of the device toward the front, and the -Y direction is the direction from the front of the device toward the back. In this embodiment, the side in the +Y direction that constitutes the sides surrounding the printer 1 is the front of the device, and the side in the -Y direction is the back of the device.

[0044] The Z-axis direction is along the vertical direction and corresponds to the height of the device. The +Z direction is the vertical upward direction, and the -Z direction is the vertical downward direction.

[0045] Additionally, in the following text, the direction in which the medium is transported will sometimes be referred to as "downstream," and its opposite direction as "upstream."

[0046] The following is for reference Figure 1 The media delivery path of printer 1 will be explained below. Figure 1 In the diagram, the medium transport path is represented by a dashed line.

[0047] The symbol S represents the feeding path for feeding the medium from the medium receiving box 2. In this embodiment, it is the path from the medium receiving box 2 to the first conveying roller pair 15 via the flip roller 8.

[0048] The symbol T1 represents the first conveying path that corresponds to the row head 30, which is described later as an example of a liquid ejector head, and conveys the medium. In this embodiment, the first conveying path T1 is the path from the first conveying roller pair 15 to the second conveying roller pair 19.

[0049] The symbol T2 represents a second conveying path that connects to the first conveying path T1 and causes the medium recorded by the line head 30 to bend upward and flip. In this embodiment, the second conveying path T2 is the path from the second conveying roller pair 19 to the discharge roller pair 28.

[0050] The symbol T3 represents a third conveying path located below the first conveying path T1, receiving the medium being conveyed in reverse on the second conveying path T2, and guiding the medium to the feed path S. In this embodiment, the third conveying path T3 is the path from the third conveying roller pair 27 (described later) to the feed path S via the fourth conveying roller pair 35.

[0051] The first conveying path T1, the second conveying path T2, the third conveying path T3, and the traveling head 30 are disposed inside the device body 1a. Although the second conveying path T2 is formed by the first unit 41 and the second unit 42 that can be loaded and unloaded relative to the device body 1a, these units will be described in detail later.

[0052] The following sections describe the structures along the feed path S in sequence.

[0053] The symbol P indicates the medium stored in the media storage box 2. Recording paper is given as an example of a medium. The media storage box 2 can be loaded and unloaded from the front of the printer 1 relative to the main body 1a of the printer 1.

[0054] At the upper part of the media storage box 2, there is a pickup roller 3 driven by a motor (not shown). The pickup roller 3 can move forward and backward relative to the media stored in the media storage box 2, and rotates by contacting the media stored in the media storage box 2, thereby feeding the media out of the media storage box 2 in the +Y direction.

[0055] A feed roller 5, driven by a motor (not shown), and a separation roller 6, which is given rotational torque by a torque limiter (not shown), are provided downstream of the media receiving box 2. The media delivered from the media receiving box 2 is separated by being clamped by the feed roller 5 and the separation roller 6, and is further conveyed downstream.

[0056] Downstream of the feed roller 5 and the separating roller 6, a reversing roller 8 driven by a motor (not shown) is provided. Around the reversing roller 8 are a first clamping roller 9, a second clamping roller 10, and a third clamping roller 11. The medium fed along the feed path S is clamped by the reversing roller 8 and the first clamping roller 9, and further clamped and conveyed by the reversing roller 8 and the second clamping roller 10. The medium's conveying direction is reversed from the +Y direction to the -Y direction by the reversing roller 8, and it is conveyed downstream.

[0057] In addition to the feed path S for feeding media from the media container 2, printer 1 also has a feed path R for feeding media from the media mounting section 12. The media mounting section 12 supports the media in an inclined position, and the supported media is conveyed to the first transport roller pair 15 by a feed roller 13 driven by a motor (not shown). Reference numeral 14 represents a separation roller that is given rotational torque by a torque limiter (not shown).

[0058] A first conveyor roller pair 15 is provided downstream of the flip roller 8. The first conveyor roller pair 15 includes a drive roller 16 driven by a motor (not shown) and a driven roller 17 capable of being driven to rotate. The driven roller 17 is pressed toward the drive roller 16 by a pressing member (not shown).

[0059] The line print head 30 is an example of a liquid ejector head that records by ejecting ink, an example of a liquid, onto a medium. The line print head 30 consists of multiple liquid ejector heads arranged such that the ink ejection nozzles 31 cover the entire area in the width direction of the medium. The line print head 30 is elongated in the width direction of the medium and is configured as a liquid ejector head capable of recording over the entire width of the medium without accompanying movement in the width direction of the medium.

[0060] The symbol 30a represents the head surface that faces the medium. Head surface 30a can also be called the liquid ejection surface or nozzle surface. The medium delivery direction, i.e., the Y-axis, is parallel to the position opposite the horizontal head 30. Furthermore, head surface 30a is parallel to the XY plane.

[0061] The printer 1 has an ink collection section (not shown), and ink ejected from the line head 30 is supplied to the line head 30 from the ink collection section via an ink tube (not shown).

[0062] Alternatively, a recording head that records the medium while moving along the width of the medium can be used instead of the line head 30. Furthermore, the unit for recording the medium is not limited to recording on the medium by ejecting ink; it can also be composed of a recording head using a click-type or other method.

[0063] A counter part 32 is provided at a position opposite to the head surface 30a of the line head 30. The counter part can also be referred to as a media support part. The counter part 32 according to this embodiment has an openable and closable baffle (not shown). When the baffle is closed, the counter part 32 supports the media. Hereinafter, the gap between the counter part 32 and the head surface 30a will be referred to as the media support gap.

[0064] A cap portion 33 is provided on the lower side of the baffle (not shown), and when the baffle is open, the cap portion 33 can face the head surface 30a. The traveling head 30 is configured to be raised and lowered by power from a motor (not shown), and by lowering the traveling head 30 with the baffle open, the cap portion 33 can cover the head surface 30a.

[0065] As described above, the linear head 30 is configured to receive power from a motor (not shown) and be able to move in the direction of advance and retreat relative to the opposing part 32, i.e., in the direction of adjusting the gap of the media support part. In this embodiment, the direction of adjusting the gap of the media support part is parallel to the Z-axis direction. Hereinafter, the case where the linear head 30 moves in the +Z-axis direction will sometimes be referred to as "rising" and the case where it moves in the -Z-axis direction will sometimes be referred to as "falling".

[0066] If the position of the line header 30 is set as the first recording position when recording is performed on ordinary paper, then when recording is performed on special paper that is thicker than ordinary paper, the line header 30 is positioned at a second recording position that is higher than the first recording position.

[0067] Furthermore, the moving area of ​​the line head 30 includes the position where the line head 30 rises to its uppermost position, i.e., the paper jam handling position. When the line head 30 rises to the paper jam handling position, the media support gap becomes the widest. As a result, the blocked media can be removed in the event of a paper jam.

[0068] Furthermore, in the moving area of ​​the head 30, there is the position where the cap portion 33 covers the head surface 30a, i.e., the cap position.

[0069] Furthermore, in the moving area of ​​the line head 30, including through the wiper 37 (see reference) Figure 2 The position where the head and face 30a are wiped is the wiping position.

[0070] In this embodiment, the aforementioned positions of the line head 30, facing the +Z direction, are sequentially named the cap position, the first recording position, the second recording position, the wiping position, and the paper jam handling position.

[0071] Here, refer to Figure 2 Let me explain the wiping device 37.

[0072] Printer 1 includes a wiper carriage 36 that moves in the X-axis direction via a motor (not shown). In this embodiment, the wiper carriage 36 uses its end position in the +X direction as its initial position.

[0073] The wiper carriage 36 is formed into a box shape with an open top and is equipped with a wiper 37. The wiper 37 is made of an elastic material such as rubber and wipes the head surface 30a by moving the wiper carriage 36 in the media width direction while in elastic contact with the head surface 30a. The ink removed by wiping is stored in the wiper carriage 36.

[0074] A fitting hole 36a is provided at the end of the wiper carriage 36 in the -X direction. A check valve (not shown) is provided in the fitting hole 36a, and is configured such that the ink stored in the wiper carriage 36 will not leak out due to the check valve.

[0075] An ink recovery section 38 is provided at the -X direction end of the moving area of ​​the wiper carriage 36. The ink recovery section 38 has a suction section 38a that can engage with the fitting hole 36a of the wiper carriage 36. When the wiper carriage 36 moves to the -X direction end, the suction section 38a engages with the fitting hole 36a. When the suction section 38a engages with the fitting hole 36a, the aforementioned check valve opens. By driving a pump (not shown) provided in the ink recovery section 38 in this state, the ink stored in the wiper carriage 36 is drawn out.

[0076] Figure 2 State ST1 indicates that the line head 40 is in the recording position. From this state onwards, when the head surface 30a is wiped by the wiper 37, as shown by... Figure 2 The change from state ST1 to state ST2 indicates that the row head 40 is raised to the wiping position. As a result, the wiping carriage 36 enters the gap between the row head 30 and the opposing part 32, and the wiping device 37 can come into contact with the head surface 30a.

[0077] By moving the wiper carriage 36 in this state as indicated by the arrow marked Wm, the wiper 37 wipes the head surface 30a.

[0078] return Figure 1 A second conveyor roller pair 19 is provided downstream of the line head 30. The second conveyor roller pair 19 includes a drive roller 20 driven by a motor (not shown) and a driven roller 21 capable of driven rotation. The medium on which recording is performed is conveyed downstream through the second conveyor roller pair 19.

[0079] The driven roller 21 is supported by the second unit 42, which will be described later. The drive roller 20 is an example of a first roller, and the driven roller 21 is an example of a second roller located above the drive roller 20.

[0080] A third conveyor roller pair 27 is provided downstream of the second conveyor roller pair 19, and a discharge roller pair 28 is further provided downstream of the third conveyor roller pair 27. The recorded medium is discharged to the discharge tray 29 via the discharge roller pair 28 with the most recent recording surface facing down.

[0081] When recording is performed on both sides of the medium, the third conveying roller pair 27 and the discharge roller pair 28 are reversed, thereby conveying the medium to the third conveying path T3. A fourth conveying roller pair 35 is provided on the third conveying path T3, and the medium fed into the third conveying path T3 is conveyed through the fourth conveying roller pair 35 to the space between the flipping roller 8 and the third clamping roller 11. Then, the medium enters the feed path S and is conveyed again towards the first conveying roller pair 15 by the flipping roller 8. With such a third conveying path T3, recording can be performed on both sides of the medium.

[0082] Next, the first unit 41 and the second unit 42 that form the second transport path T2 will be described.

[0083] The first unit 41 and the second unit 42 are configured to be detachable from the rear side of the device body 1a. Figure 3 This indicates that both the first unit 41 and the second unit 42 are mounted on the device body 1a. In this state, a portion of the section from the second conveyor roller pair 19 to the third conveyor roller pair 27 in the second conveying path T2 is formed between the first unit 41 and the second unit 42. The first unit 41 and the second unit 42 form a curved section in the second conveying path T2.

[0084] The second unit 42 forms the upper side of the second conveying path T2, and the first unit 41 forms the lower side of the second conveying path T2.

[0085] Furthermore, a portion of the section upstream of the fourth conveying roller pair 35 in the third conveying path T3 is formed inside the first unit 41.

[0086] The first unit 41 can be unlocked from the installed state by operating the lock release operation unit (not shown), and can be removed from the main body 1a in the -Y direction. Figure 4 This indicates that the first unit 41 has been removed from the main body 1a of the device. Additionally, in Figure 4 In this configuration, the second unit 42 remains in its installed state. The installed state of the first unit 41 is an example of the first state in which the first unit 41 forms the second conveying path T2, and the state in which the first unit 41 is removed is an example of the second state in which the first unit 41 opens the second conveying path T2.

[0087] By removing the first unit 41, a portion of the second conveying path T2 and a portion of the third conveying path T3 are exposed, thereby enabling the removal of the jammed medium when a paper jam occurs in these path portions, i.e., paper jam handling.

[0088] Furthermore, in this specification, especially when the first unit 41 is referred to as the "installed state," it means that the first unit 41 is fully installed. In the fully installed state, the first unit 41 is locked by a locking unit (not shown).

[0089] Next, since the second unit 42 is located between the first unit 41 and the line head 30 in the installed state, the second unit 42 cannot be removed while the first unit 41 is installed. Then, by removing the first unit 41, the second unit 42 is exposed and can be removed. When the second unit 42 is removed, the second transport path T2 is further opened, and it is also possible to approach the first transport path T1, thereby enabling paper jam handling when a paper jam occurs on the first transport path T1.

[0090] In addition, although no unit is provided in this embodiment to lock the second unit 42 in the installation state, a unit to lock the second unit 42 in the installation state may also be provided.

[0091] Figure 5 Indicates from Figure 4 The state was extracted from the state of the second unit 42 in the -Y direction. For example... Figure 6 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 As shown, a guided portion 42b is formed on the side surface of the second unit 42 in the X-axis direction, that is, on the side surface in the +X direction and on the side surface in the -X direction. Furthermore, in Figures 3-5 The image shows the state obtained by cutting the second unit 42 with the YZ plane, and the guide part 42b is not shown. Figure 6 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the side view of the first unit 41 and the second unit 42 in the -X direction when viewed from the -X direction.

[0092] Multiple guided portions 42b are provided at intervals along the Y-axis direction. In addition, multiple guided portions 42b are also provided on the side of the second unit 42 in the +X direction.

[0093] exist Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figures 8 to 13In the diagram, symbol 53 represents a mounting portion for mounting the second unit 42. The mounting portion 53 is disposed on both sides of the second unit 42 such that it clamps the second unit 42 in the X-axis direction. An upper guide portion 53b and a lower guide portion 53c are provided on the mounting portion 53, spaced vertically apart. The guided portion 42b of the second unit 42 enters between the upper guide portion 53b and the lower guide portion 53c, thereby guiding the second unit 42 in the Y-axis direction.

[0094] A protrusion 53a protruding along the X-axis direction is formed on the mounting portion 53. For example... Figure 6 As shown, engaging grooves 42a are formed on both sides of the second unit 42 in the X-axis direction. Additionally, although in Figure 6 The image shows an engagement groove 42a formed on the side of the second unit 42 in the -X direction, but an engagement groove 42a is also formed on the side in the +X direction.

[0095] When the second unit 42 is installed in the mounting part 53, the protrusion 53a enters the engaging groove 42a. As a result, the second unit 42 can swing about the protrusion 53a as the swing axis in the YZ plane.

[0096] Pressable portions 42c are formed on both sides of the second unit 42 in the X-axis direction. The pressable portions 42c are formed in a manner that protrudes in the -Y direction. A pressing portion 46 is provided on the first unit 41. The pressing portion 46 determines the posture of the second unit 42 by pushing the pressable portion 42c of the second unit 42 upward when the first unit 41 and the second unit 42 are installed. That is, although the second unit 42 can swing around the protrusion 53a in the installed state as described above, when the first unit 41 is installed, the pressing portion 46 pushes the pressable portion 42c upward, so that the second unit 42 cannot swing, thereby determining the posture of the second unit 42.

[0097] Here, the second unit 42 supports the driven roller 21 that constitutes the second conveying roller pair 19. The driven roller 21 is located in the +Y direction relative to the protrusion 53a, which serves as the swing center of the second unit 42. Furthermore, when the first unit 41 is removed, the second unit 42 becomes unrestrained from the pressing part 46, and thus swings downwards at its -Y direction end, i.e., the pressed part 42c, thereby displacing the driven roller 21 upwards and separating it from the drive roller 20. This is achieved by... Figures 12 to 13 The state changes are used to represent this.

[0098] Next, as Figure 6 , Figures 8 to 13As shown, a rod 45 is provided on the main body 1a of the device. The rod 45 is configured to rotate in the YZ plane about the rotation axis 45a. The rod 45 has a first arm 45b and a second arm 45c extending from the rotation axis 45a. The first arm 45b is a part that can engage with the first unit 41, and the second arm 45c is a part that can engage with the second unit 42.

[0099] Figure 9 The first unit 41 and the second unit 42 are not installed. In this state, the second arm 45c of the rod 45 enters the installation path of the second unit 42. Furthermore, although in this embodiment, the rod 45 achieves weight balance through the weight of the first arm 45b and the second arm 45c... Figure 9 The posture shown can also be achieved by pressing with a pressing component such as a coil spring. Figure 9 The posture shown.

[0100] When the second unit 42 is installed from this state, in order to... Figure 9 The state of being through Figure 10 Switching to the state Figure 11 In this state, the second arm 45c is pushed against the upper surface of the second unit 42, thereby causing the rod 45 to achieve... Figure 11 The posture shown.

[0101] Here, in Figure 9 , Figure 11 In the diagram, symbol 41A represents the area occupied by the first unit 41. In the uninstalled state of the second unit 42, as... Figure 9 As shown, the first arm 45b intrudes into the occupied area 41A of the first unit 41, thereby rendering the first unit 41 unable to be fully installed. The occupied area 41A is the area occupied by the first unit 41 when it is fully installed.

[0102] Figure 8 This indicates a state in which the installation of the first unit 41 is obstructed by the first arm 45b when the second unit 42 is not installed.

[0103] In contrast, such as Figure 11 , Figure 12 As shown, when the second unit 42 is installed, the first arm 45b is retracted from the occupied area 41A of the first unit 41, so that the first unit 41 can be fully installed.

[0104] Next, as Figure 6As shown, a detection unit 50 is provided on the main body 1a of the device. The detection unit 50 has a detection rod 50c that is rotatable in the YZ plane. The detection rod 50c is pressed in an upward-protruding manner. Figure 6 As shown, the first unit 41 has a pressing part 41a that can engage with the detection rod 50c in the installed state. When the first unit 41 is fully installed, the detection rod 50c is pressed down by the pressing part 41a. As a result, the control unit (not shown) of the printer 1 can detect that the first unit 41 is fully installed.

[0105] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the detection unit 50 is mounted on the mounting unit 51. The detection unit 50 is provided with a hook-shaped first locking portion 50a and a second locking portion 50b. The mounting unit 51 has a plate portion 51d, on which a first hole portion 51b and a second hole portion 51c are formed. The first locking portion 50a of the detection unit 50 can be locked onto the underside of the plate portion 51d via the first hole portion 51b of the mounting unit 51. Furthermore, the second locking portion 50b of the detection unit 50 can be locked onto the underside of the plate portion 51d via the second hole portion 51c of the mounting unit 51. Thus, the detection unit 50 is in the mounted state.

[0106] Here, with the plate portion 51d remaining unchanged, during the installation of the detection unit 50, as shown by reference numeral 50-1, the second locking portion 50b passes through the second hole portion 51c while the detection unit 50 is tilted significantly, and then the first locking portion 50a passes through the first hole portion 51b. However, in this case, space is required for the detection unit 50 to tilt significantly, thus requiring a larger installation space for the detection unit 50, which may lead to an increase in the size of the device.

[0107] To suppress this problem, a snap-fit ​​portion 51a capable of elastic deformation is formed on the mounting portion 51. A portion of the second hole portion 51c is formed by the snap-fit ​​portion 51a. Since the snap-fit ​​portion 51a can elastically deform as shown by the symbol 51a-1, when mounting the detection portion 50, the detection portion 50 can be mounted vertically from top to bottom without tilting it. As a result, the large size of the device can be suppressed.

[0108] As explained above, the printer 1 has a first unit 41 and a second unit 42 mounted on the main body 1a of the device having a line head 30, a first transport path T1, and a second transport path T2 in a detachable manner. The first unit 41 can be in a first state forming the second transport path T2, i.e., an installed state, and a second state opening the second transport path T2, i.e., a disassembled state.

[0109] The second unit 42 is a unit that can be installed and removed relative to the main body 1a. In the installed state, it is located between the line head 30 and the first unit 41 in the installed state, thereby forming a second conveying path T2 between it and the first unit 41. In the disassembled state, the first conveying path T1 is exposed.

[0110] Therefore, since the second transport path T2 is opened by removing the first unit 41, the medium blocking the second transport path T2 can be removed. Here, even though the first unit 41 is removed, by installing the second unit 42 on the device body 1a, it is possible to suppress approach to the line head 30, thereby also preventing the user from accidentally contacting the line head 30 and getting their fingers dirty.

[0111] Additionally, media that are small in size and have become blocked before entering the second transport path T2 can be removed by exceptionally removing the second unit 42.

[0112] Furthermore, although in this embodiment the first unit 41 can be attached to and detached relative to the device body 1a, it can also be configured to slide relative to the device body 1a in the Y-axis direction to obtain a first state and a second state. Alternatively, it can be configured to obtain a first state and a second state by making the first unit 41 rotatable relative to the device body 1a.

[0113] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a third conveying path T3 is provided below the first conveying path T1. The third conveying path T3 receives the medium that is being conveyed in reverse on the second conveying path T2 and guides the medium to the feed path S. Also, the first unit 41 forms the third conveying path T3 in the installed state (first state) and opens the third conveying path T3 in the second state (disassembled state).

[0114] With this structure, the third transport path T3 can be opened, thereby removing the medium that is blocking the third transport path T3. Furthermore, similarly, even if the first unit 41 is in the second state (disassembled state), by installing the second unit 42 onto the device body 1a, it is possible to suppress approach to the printhead 30, and thus also to prevent the user from accidentally contacting the printhead 30 and soiling their fingers.

[0115] Furthermore, printer 1 includes a lever 45 as an example of a limiting component. The lever 45 retracts from the occupied area 41A of the first unit 41 when the second unit 42 is in the installed state (see reference). Figure 11 When the second unit 42 is in the disassembled state, it intrudes into the occupied area 41A of the first unit 41 (refer to...). Figure 9 ), which restricts the change of the installation state of the first unit 41.

[0116] With this structure, it is possible to prevent the first unit 41 from being in its first state (installed state) when the second unit 42 is removed. As a result, installing the first unit 41 while the second unit 42 is removed can prevent paper jams caused by the transport of media.

[0117] Furthermore, the rod 45 has a first arm 45b capable of rotating about a rotation axis 45a and engaging with the first unit 41, and a second arm 45c capable of engaging with the second unit 42. When the second unit 42 is removed, the first arm 45b intrudes into the occupied area 41A of the first unit 41. When the second unit 42 is installed, the first arm 45b retracts from the occupied area 41A of the first unit 41 by engaging with the second unit 42 via the second arm 45c.

[0118] With this structure, by having a simple structure with a first arm 41b and a second arm 41c, it is possible to prevent the first unit 41 from being in the first state, i.e., the installed state, when the second unit 42 has been removed.

[0119] Furthermore, the printer 1 includes a detection unit 50 that detects when the first unit 41 is in a first state, i.e., an installed state. The detection unit 50 can detect when the first unit 41 is in the installed state. Since the first unit 41 cannot be switched to the installed state by the lever 45 if the second unit 42 is not installed, the detection unit 50 detecting that the first unit 41 is in the installed state indicates that the second unit 42 is installed. In other words, the detection unit 50 can detect not only the installation of the first unit 41 but also the installation of the second unit 42, thus eliminating the need for a dedicated structure for detecting the installation state of the second unit 42 and reducing costs.

[0120] The second unit 42 is capable of controlling the clamping state (see reference). Figure 12 ) and clamp release state (refer to Figure 13 The clamping state can be switched by means of the protrusion 53a (refer to) in the installed state. Figure 12 , Figure 13 The first unit 41 is a pivoting axis that holds the medium between the drive roller 20 and the driven roller 21. The clamping release state is when the driven roller 21 moves away from the drive roller 20. Furthermore, the second unit 42 can engage with the first unit 41, and when the first unit 41 is in a first state (installation state), it achieves a clamping state by receiving external force from the first unit 41. When the first unit 41 is in a second state (disassembly state), it achieves a clamping release state.

[0121] Therefore, when removing the stuck medium, the medium is not easily constrained from the second conveyor roller pair 19, thus the stuck medium can be easily removed.

[0122] In addition, although in this embodiment the clamping state of the second conveyor roller pair 19 is released by swaying the second unit 42 by removing the first unit 41, a structure in which the clamping state of the second conveyor roller pair 19 is released without the swaying of the second unit 42 can also be adopted.

[0123] In addition, by removing the first unit 41, not only can the clamping state of the second conveyor roller pair 19 be released, but also the clamping state of the third conveyor roller pair 27 and the fourth conveyor roller pair 35 can be released.

[0124] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figure 14 As shown, the second unit 42 has a recess 42d on the path forming surface 42f that forms the second transport path T2. Multiple recesses 42d are provided in the X-axis direction, i.e., the width direction of the medium. The recesses 42d are located at positions through which the ends of the medium pass in the width direction.

[0125] Here, although it would be difficult to remove media if it were stuck to the path forming surface 42f, a recess 42d is provided at the end of the media in the width direction, allowing the user's finger to enter and easily remove the media. Furthermore, a rib 42e is formed inside the recess 42d, which prevents the corner of the media tip from getting caught on the edge of the recess 42d.

[0126] Alternatively, it can be like Figure 15 As shown, the medium is moved away from the path forming surface 42f by operating the operating unit 61. Figure 15 In the diagram, 60 represents a rotating component, and the rotating component 60 is configured to rotate about a rotation axis 60a. An operating part 61 is connected to the rotating component 60 via a connecting shaft 61a. Figure 15 State ST1 is the state before operation of the operating unit 61, and the rotating member 60 does not protrude from the path forming surface 42f. When the operating unit 61 is slid in the -Y direction from this state, as shown in the change from state ST1 to state ST2, the rotating member 60 rotates and protrudes from the path forming surface 42f. As a result, the medium leaves the path forming surface 42f, allowing the user's finger to enter and thus easily remove the medium.

[0127] Alternatively, the control unit (not shown) of printer 1 may also display the steps of paper jam handling operation on the operation panel (not shown) of printer 1 or on the display unit of an information terminal that can communicate with printer 1, namely, first removing the first unit 41, and removing the contents of the second unit 42 when the jammed medium cannot be visually confirmed at this time.

[0128] Furthermore, when the control unit of printer 1 detects that the first unit 41 has been removed based on the detection information from the detection unit 50, it moves the line head 30 towards the paper jam handling position. At this time, the control unit can also control the wiper carriage 36 to wipe the head surface 30a. As a result, it is possible to suppress the dirt from the user's fingers when touching the head surface 30a.

[0129] Furthermore, the control unit can also control the wiper carriage 36 when it detects that the first unit 41 has been removed based on the detection information from the detection unit 50. Figure 2 As shown by symbol 36-1, the wiper carriage 36 is stopped at the center of the row head 30, specifically in the width direction, opposite the head surface 30a. This prevents the clogged medium from contacting the head surface 30a when it is being withdrawn.

[0130] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments or variations described above, but can be modified in various ways within the scope of the invention as described in the claims, and these modifications are of course included within the scope of the present invention.

[0131] Symbol Explanation

[0132] 1…Inkjet printer, 1a…Main body, 2…Media container, 3…Pick-up roller, 5…Feed roller, 6…Separation roller, 8…Tilting roller, 9…First clamping roller, 10…Second clamping roller, 11…Third clamping roller, 12…Media placement section, 13…Feed roller, 14…Separation roller, 15…First transport roller pair, 16…Drive roller, 17…Driven roller, 19…Second transport roller pair, 20…Drive roller, 21…Driven roller, 27…Third transport roller pair, 28…Discharge roller pair, 29…Discharge tray, 30…Linear head, 30a…Head face, 31…Nozzle, 32…Opposing section, 33…Cap section, 35…Fourth transport roller pair, 36…Wipe carriage, 36a…Matching hole, 37…Wipe, 38…Ink recovery section, 41… …First unit, 41a…pressing part, 41A…occupying area, 42…second unit, 42a…locking groove, 42b…guided part, 42c…pressed part, 42d…recess, 42e…rib, 42f…path forming surface, 45…rod, 45a…rotating shaft, 45b…first arm, 45c…second arm, 46…pressing part, 50…detection part, 50a…first locking part, 50b…second locking part, 50c…detection rod, 51…mounting part, 51a…buckle part, 51b…first hole, 51c…second hole, 53…mounting part, 53a…protrusion, 53b…upper guide, 53c…lower guide, 60…rotating component, 60a…rotating shaft, 61…operating part, 61a…connecting shaft.

Claims

1. A recording device, characterized in that, have: A liquid ejector head records data by ejecting liquid from a medium. A first delivery path is positioned opposite the liquid nozzle and delivers the medium. A second delivery path is connected to the first delivery path, and causes the medium recorded through the liquid nozzle to bend upward and flip; The main body of the device includes the liquid ejector head, the first conveying path, and the second conveying path; The first unit is capable of obtaining a first state that forms the second transport path and a second state that opens the second transport path; The second unit is a detachable unit relative to the main body of the device. The second unit forms a second delivery path between itself and the first unit in the installed state by being located between the liquid nozzle and the first unit in the first state, and exposes the first delivery path in the disassembled state.

2. The recording device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, have: A feed path that feeds the medium to the first transport path; A third conveying path, located below the first conveying path, receives the medium being conveyed in reverse on the second conveying path and guides the medium to the feed path. The first unit forms the third transport path in the first state and opens the third transport path in the second state.

3. The recording device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, The device includes a limiting component that retracts from the occupied area of ​​the first unit when the second unit is in the installed state, and restricts the change of the first unit to the first state by intruding into the occupied area of ​​the first unit when the second unit is in the disassembled state.

4. The recording device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The limiting member has a first arm that can rotate about a rotation axis and engage with the first unit, and a second arm that can engage with the second unit. With the second unit removed, the first arm encroaches on the area occupied by the first unit. With the second unit installed, the first arm engages with the second unit, thereby causing the first arm to retract from the area occupied by the first unit.

5. The recording device as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The device includes a detection unit that detects when the first unit is in the first state.

6. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, In the first conveying path, a pair of conveying rollers for conveying the medium is provided downstream of the liquid nozzle. The conveying roller pair has a first roller and a second roller, the second roller being an upper roller relative to the first roller and supported by the second unit. The second unit can switch between a clamping state and a clamping release state. The clamping state is a state in which the medium can be clamped using the first roller and the second roller by swinging around the swing axis in the installed state. The clamping release state is a state in which the second roller disengages from the first roller. Furthermore, the second unit can engage with the first unit, and when the first unit is in the first state, it can obtain the clamping state by bearing external force from the first unit, and obtain the clamping release state when the first unit is in the second state.

7. The recording apparatus as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, The second unit has a recess on the path forming surface that forms the second conveying path. The direction intersecting the transport direction of the medium is defined as the width direction, and the recess is provided at the position through which the end of the medium in the width direction passes.

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