Drying apparatus and printing apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a kind of drying device and printing device capable of uniformly drying medium.The drying device is opposite to the support table supporting the medium being transported, and is provided with first heater unit and second heater unit, first heater unit has: first heating element, which extends in the first direction, and radiates infrared rays;First reflector, which reflects the infrared rays radiated by the first heating element towards the support table, second heater unit has: second heating element, which extends in the first direction, and radiates infrared rays;Second reflector, which reflects the infrared rays radiated by the second heating element towards the support table, second heating element is located at a position different from that of the first heating element in the first direction and a direction different from the first direction and in the second direction in which the medium being transported on the support table moves, and the second reflector reflects the infrared rays in a manner that overlaps the area on the support table illuminated by the infrared rays reflected by the first reflector in the second direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a drying apparatus and a printing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a drying apparatus for drying a conveyed medium. The drying apparatus includes a first heater unit that heats the medium from above and a second heater unit that heats the medium from below. The first and second heater units are arranged in one direction, thereby covering a width to dry the medium.

[0003] In the drying apparatus described in Patent Document 1, the first heater unit and the second heater unit heat the medium from different surfaces. Therefore, it is possible that the medium is not dried uniformly.

[0004] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-132174. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The drying apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problem is a drying apparatus opposite a support platform supporting a conveyed medium, and includes: a first heater unit for heating the medium; and a second heater unit for heating the medium. The first heater unit has: a first heating element extending in a first direction and emitting infrared radiation; and a first reflector reflecting the infrared radiation emitted by the first heating element toward the support platform. The second heater unit has: A second heating element extends in the first direction and radiates infrared rays; a second reflector reflects the infrared rays emitted by the second heating element toward the support platform. The second heating element is located at a position different from that of the first heating element in the first direction and in a second direction, which is different from the first direction and is the direction in which the medium being transported on the support platform moves. The second reflector reflects infrared rays in such a way that it overlaps with the area on the support platform illuminated by the infrared rays reflected by the first reflector in the second direction.

[0006] A printing apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: a printing unit that performs printing by spraying liquid onto a medium; a transport unit that transports the medium; a support table that supports the medium onto which liquid has been sprayed; a first heater unit that faces the support table and heats the medium; and a second heater unit that faces the support table and heats the medium. The first heater unit includes: a first heating element that extends in a first direction and emits infrared rays; and a first reflector that reflects the infrared rays emitted by the first heating element toward the support table. The second heater unit includes: a second heating element that extends in the first direction and emits infrared rays; and a second reflector that reflects the infrared rays emitted by the second heating element toward the support table. The second heating element is located at a position different from that of the first heating element in the first direction and in a second direction, which is different from the first direction and in which the medium being transported on the support table moves. The second reflector reflects infrared rays in such a way that it overlaps with the area on the support table illuminated by the infrared rays reflected by the first reflector in the second direction. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 A side view showing an example of a printing apparatus equipped with a drying device.

[0008] Figure 2 A side view showing an example of a drying device.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a top view showing the heater unit.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a top view showing a modified example of the drying apparatus.

[0011] Figure 5 To indicate and Figure 4 Side views of different variation examples.

[0012] Figure 6 To indicate and Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 Side views of different variation examples. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Hereinafter, an example of a printing apparatus will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The printing apparatus is, for example, an inkjet printer that prints images such as text and photographs by spraying ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper or cloth.

[0014] Printing apparatus like Figure 1As shown, the printing apparatus 11 includes a housing 12. The printing apparatus 11 may also include a base 13. The base 13 supports the housing 12. Specifically, the base 13 supports the housing 12 from below.

[0015] The printing apparatus 11 includes a conveying unit 14. The conveying unit 14 is configured to convey the medium M1. The conveying unit 14 includes, for example, one or more rollers. The conveying unit 14 conveys the medium M1 via one or more rollers.

[0016] The transport unit 14 transports long strips of medium M1. The transport unit 14 can also transport single sheets of medium M1. In one example, the transport unit 14 transports medium M1 being unwound from a roll containing the unwound medium M1. The transport unit 14 can also transport medium M1 being unwound from a roll held in the printing apparatus 11. The transport unit 14 can also transport medium M1 being unwound from a roll held in a device different from the printing apparatus 11.

[0017] The printing apparatus 11 includes a printing unit 15. The printing unit 15 is housed in a housing 12. The printing unit 15 is configured to print an image on a medium M1. The printing unit 15 prints the image on the medium M1 by spraying liquid onto the medium M1. The printing unit 15 includes, for example, a head for spraying liquid. The printing unit 15 may include either a serial head for scanning the medium M1 or a line head capable of spraying liquid across the width of the medium M1.

[0018] The printing apparatus 11 includes a printing support stage 16. The printing support stage 16 is configured to support the medium M1. The printing support stage 16 supports the medium M1 from below. The printing support stage 16 supports the medium M1 being conveyed via the transport section 14. The printing support stage 16 is located opposite the printing section 15. The printing support stage 16 supports the medium M1 being printed via the printing section 15. In one example, the printing support stage 16 supports the portion of the medium M1 that is being printed.

[0019] The printing apparatus 11 includes a support section 17. The support section 17 is configured to support the medium M1. The support section 17 supports the medium M1 from below. The support section 17 supports the medium M1 being conveyed via the conveying section 14. The support section 17 is located downstream of the printing support section 16 in the direction in which the medium M1 is conveyed. The support section 17 supports the medium M1 after it has been printed via the printing section 15. In one example, the support section 17 supports the portion of the medium M1 that has been printed. The support section 17 can be continuous with the printing support section 16 or can be separated from it.

[0020] The printing apparatus 11 includes a drying device 21. The drying device 21 is configured to dry the medium M1. The drying device 21 dries the conveyed medium M1. The drying device 21 dries the printed medium M1. The drying device 21 is located opposite the support table 17. The drying device 21 dries the medium M1 supported by the support table 17. The drying device 21 dries the medium M1 conveyed on the support table 17. The drying device 21 dries the portion of the medium M1 located on the support table 17.

[0021] Drying equipment Next, the drying device 21 will be described.

[0022] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the drying device 21 has a housing 22. The housing 22 is located opposite the support platform 17. The housing 22 is configured to have a partial opening opposite the support platform 17.

[0023] The drying apparatus 21 has multiple heater units. In one example, it has two heater units. Specifically, the drying apparatus 21 has a first heater unit 23 and a second heater unit 24. The heater units are housed in the housing 22. The heater units are located opposite the support platform 17.

[0024] The heater unit is configured to heat the medium M1. The heater unit irradiates infrared rays toward the support platform 17. The heater unit heats the medium M1 conveyed on the support platform 17 using infrared rays. By heating the medium M1, the heater unit dries the medium M1.

[0025] The heater unit heats the medium M1 located in the irradiation area. The irradiation area is the region reached by infrared rays irradiated from the heater unit. The irradiation area is the area on the support platform 17. The irradiation area is determined by the position and orientation of the heater unit. The first heater unit 23 heats the medium M1 located in the first irradiation area R1. The first irradiation area R1 is the region reached by infrared rays irradiated from the first heater unit 23. The second heater unit 24 heats the medium M1 located in the second irradiation area R2. The second irradiation area R2 is the region reached by infrared rays irradiated from the second heater unit 24. The medium M1 is conveyed into the irradiation area. Thus, the medium M1 is heated.

[0026] The heater unit is configured to extend in a first direction D1. The first direction D1 is a direction that indicates the width of the medium M1. The first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24 are elongated strips in the first direction D1. By extending in the first direction D1, the heater unit is able to heat the medium M1 across its width.

[0027] Multiple heater units are located at positions capable of heating the medium M1 across its entire width. Multiple heater units are located at positions capable of heating the maximum size of the medium M1 printed by the printing apparatus 11 across its entire width. In one example, multiple heater units are located at positions capable of heating the support stage 17 across its entire width. Multiple heater units are located at positions where the irradiation area is continuous in the first direction D1.

[0028] The first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24 are located at positions that can complementaryly heat the medium M1 in the first direction D1. Specifically, the second heater unit 24 is located in the first direction D1 to irradiate infrared light into an area that is difficult for the infrared light from the first heater unit 23 to reach. The second heater unit 24 is also located in the first direction D1 such that the second irradiation area R2 is continuous with respect to the first irradiation area R1. In one example, the second heater unit 24 is located in the first direction D1, extending the position of the first heater unit 23. Thus, for a medium M1 with a relatively small width, heating can be achieved using only the first heater unit 23 or only the second heater unit 24. For a medium M1 with a relatively large width, heating can be achieved using both the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24. By selecting heater units that match and drive the width of the medium M1, the power consumption of the drying apparatus 21 can be reduced.

[0029] Multiple heater units can also be located at a position where multiple irradiation areas overlap in the first direction D1. In other words, multiple heater units can also be located at a position where multiple irradiation areas overlap when viewed from the second direction D2. For example, the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24 can also be located at a position where the ends of the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 overlap when viewed from the second direction D2. The amount of infrared radiation at the ends of the irradiation area tends to be less than the amount of infrared radiation at the center of the irradiation area. Therefore, by having the ends of the irradiation areas overlap, it is easier to make the medium M1 dry uniformly.

[0030] Multiple heater units are located at different positions in a second direction D2. The second direction D2 is different from the first direction D1. The second direction D2 is the direction in which the medium M1 is conveyed on the support platform 17. The multiple heater units, viewed from the first direction D1, are arranged in a position along the second direction D2. In one example, the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24 are arranged in this order along the second direction D2. The second heater unit 24 and the first heater unit 23 may also be arranged in this order along the second direction D2.

[0031] Multiple heater units are located at overlapping positions of multiple irradiation areas in the second direction D2. In other words, multiple heater units are located at overlapping positions of multiple irradiation areas when viewed from the first direction D1. For example, the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24 are located at overlapping positions of the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 when viewed from the first direction D1. When the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 are offset in the second direction D2, the timing of heating the transported medium M1 differs in the first direction D1. That is, when the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 are offset in the second direction D2, the timing of the medium M1 entering the first irradiation area R1 and the timing of entering the second irradiation area R2 will be offset. In this case, the medium M1 may not dry uniformly. In contrast, by making the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 overlap when viewed from the first direction D1, the deviation in the timing of heating the medium M1 is reduced. The first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 are preferably located in a position where they completely overlap when viewed from the first direction D1. Alternatively, the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 may be located in a position where they partially overlap when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0032] The heater unit has one or more heating elements. The first heater unit 23 has one or more first heating elements 25. The second heater unit 24 has one or more second heating elements 26. In one example, the first heater unit 23 has one first heating element 25. The second heater unit 24 has one second heating element 26. The heating elements extend in a first direction D1.

[0033] The heating element is configured to emit infrared radiation. Specifically, the heating element emits infrared radiation by being subjected to a voltage. The heating element, for example, has heating wires and a tube housing the heating wires. The heating element emits infrared radiation by heating the tube with the heating wires. The heating element, for example, extends in a cylindrical shape. In one example, the heating element is an armored heater. The heating element emits infrared radiation radially.

[0034] The first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are located at different positions in the first direction D1. The first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are located at offset positions when viewed from the second direction D2. In one example, the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are located at positions where their ends overlap when viewed from the second direction D2. Therefore, when viewed from the second direction D2, the ends of the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 overlap.

[0035] The first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are located at different positions in the second direction D2. The first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are located at offset positions when viewed from the first direction D1. In one example, the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are located in a position arranged in the second direction D2 when viewed from the first direction D1. The first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are located in this order in the second direction D2.

[0036] The heater unit has one or more reflectors. The first heater unit 23 has one or more first reflectors 27. The second heater unit 24 has one or more second reflectors 28. The reflectors are configured to reflect infrared rays emitted by the heating element toward the support platform 17. The reflectors are configured to cover the heating element. The reflectors are configured to cover the heating element from above. The reflectors are, for example, curved plates.

[0037] The reflector is located at the position where the illumination areas overlap in the second direction D2. The reflector is located at the position where the illumination areas overlap when viewed from the first direction D1. The first reflector 27 is located at the position where the first illumination area R1 and the second illumination area R2 overlap when viewed from the first direction D1. The second reflector 28 is located at the position where the second illumination area R2 and the first illumination area R1 overlap when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0038] The reflector reflects infrared light in the direction extending from the normal. The normal is a straight line extending from the apex of the curved reflector toward the support platform 17. The reflector covers the heating element in such a way that the heating element is positioned on its normal. The first reflector 27 reflects infrared light in the direction extending from the first normal L1. The first reflector 27 covers the first heating element 25 in such a way that the first heating element 25 is positioned on the first normal L1. The second reflector 28 reflects infrared light in the direction extending from the second normal L2. The second reflector 28 covers the second heating element 26 in such a way that the second heating element 26 is positioned on the second normal L2.

[0039] The first reflector 27 and the second reflector 28 are located at positions where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first normal L1 and the second normal L2 extend in mutually different directions. For example, the first reflector 27 and the second reflector 28 are located at positions on the support platform 17 where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first normal L1 and the second normal L2 face the same direction. Therefore, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 overlap.

[0040] The first reflector 27 is located where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first normal L1 extends in a direction different from the second normal L2. In one example, the first reflector 27 is located where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first normal L1 is inclined relative to the support platform 17. More specifically, the first reflector 27 is located where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first normal L1 extends with a component pointing towards the second direction D2. The first normal L1 may also extend perpendicularly relative to the support platform 17.

[0041] The second reflector 28 is located at a position where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the second normal L2 extends in a direction different from the first normal L1. In one example, the second reflector 28 is located at a position where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the second normal L2 is inclined relative to the support platform 17. More specifically, the second reflector 28 is located at a position where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the second normal L2 includes a component extending in a direction opposite to the second direction D2. The second normal L2 may also extend perpendicularly relative to the support platform 17.

[0042] The distances between the first heating element 25 on the first normal L1 and the support platform 17, and the distances between the second heating element 26 on the second normal L2 and the support platform 17, are preferably the same. The irradiation area of ​​infrared rays relative to the support platform 17 varies depending on the distance between the heating element and the support platform 17. The smaller the distance between the heating element and the support platform 17, the less likely the infrared rays are to diffuse relative to the support platform 17.

[0043] The heights of the first heating element 25 relative to the support platform 17 and the heights of the second heating element 26 relative to the support platform 17 can also be the same. In this case, if the first normal L1 and the second normal L2 are symmetrically inclined relative to the support platform 17, the distances between the heating elements on the normals and the support platform 17 are easily made consistent.

[0044] The drying device 21 may also have more than one through-feed member. In one example, the drying device 21 has a first through-feed member 29 and a second through-feed member 30. The drying device 21 may have only the first through-feed member 29 or only the second through-feed member 30. The drying device 21 may also have a common through-feed member 31 in place of the first through-feed member 29 and the second through-feed member 30. The drying device 21 may have a common through-feed member 31 in addition to the first through-feed member 29 or in addition to the second through-feed member 30.

[0045] The transmitting component is a component that allows infrared light to pass through. It is configured to increase the transmittance of infrared light. The transmitting component can be made of, for example, a glass plate based on quartz glass or a metal mesh. While allowing infrared light to pass through, the transmitting component restricts the flow of gas. The transmitting component is located at a position that protects the heating element from external gas. Therefore, the heating element is less likely to come into contact with external gas. This reduces the possibility that the temperature of the heating element will decrease due to external gas.

[0046] The transmitting element is located at a position that allows infrared light irradiated from the heater unit to pass through the support platform 17. Specifically, the transmitting element is located at a position that allows infrared light emitted from the heating element to pass through. The transmitting element is located between the heating element and the support platform 17. A first transmitting element 29 is located between the first heating element 25 and the support platform 17. A second transmitting element 30 is located between the second heating element 26 and the support platform 17. A common transmitting element 31 is located between the first heating element 25 and the support platform 17, and between the second heating element 26 and the support platform 17.

[0047] The permeable component can also be mounted on the reflector. The permeable component can also be mounted such that it surrounds the heating element through the reflector and the reflector. For example, the permeable component can also be mounted on the reflector by blocking the opening of the reflector. Thus, external gas cannot easily enter the space covered by the reflector. In this case, the permeable component can be made of either a wire mesh or a glass plate. The first permeable component 29 is mounted on the first reflector 27. The first permeable component 29 is mounted such that it surrounds the first heating element 25 through the first reflector 27 and the first permeable component 29. The second permeable component 30 is mounted on the second reflector 28. The second permeable component 30 is mounted such that it surrounds the second heating element 26 through the second reflector 28 and the second permeable component 30.

[0048] The transmission element can also be mounted on the housing 22. The transmission element can also be mounted on the housing 22 by blocking the opening of the housing 22. This prevents external gas from easily entering the housing 22. In this case, the transmission element is preferably made of glass. Glass has better infrared transmittance than metal mesh. Therefore, when the transmission element is located away from the heat source, it is preferable that the transmission element be made of glass. A common transmission element 31 is mounted on the housing 22.

[0049] The drying apparatus 21 may also include an air supply section 32. The air supply section 32 is mounted on the housing 22. The air supply section 32 is configured to supply air to the support platform 17. The air supply section 32 supplies air to the medium M1 being conveyed on the support platform 17. By supplying air to the medium M1 through the air supply section 32, the drying of the medium M1 is promoted.

[0050] The air supply unit 32 supplies air to the support platform 17 in a manner that causes gas to flow on the support platform 17. In one example, the air supply unit 32 blows gas on the support platform 17 in a manner that causes the gas to flow in the second direction D2. The air supply unit 32 may also blow gas on the support platform 17 in a manner that causes the gas to flow in the opposite direction to the second direction D2. For example, the air supply unit 32 blows air onto the support platform 17.

[0051] The air supply section 32 has a fan 33. The fan 33 is configured to circulate gas. The air supply section 32 has an air supply path 34. The air supply path 34 is mounted on the housing 22. The air supply path 34 extends within the housing 22. In one example, the air supply path 34 extends in a manner that covers the heater unit. Thus, the air supply path 34 is easily heated. The air supply path 34 is the path for the gas circulated by the fan 33. The fan 33 is located within the air supply path 34. When the fan 33 is driven, gas flows along the air supply path 34.

[0052] An air inlet 35 is provided on the air supply path 34. The air inlet 35 is an opening for gas to flow into the air supply path 34. Driven by the fan 33, the gas flows into the air supply path 34 through the air inlet 35. In one example, the air inlet 35 is located at a position offset in the second direction D2 compared to the heater unit. That is, in the direction in which the medium M1 is conveyed on the support platform 17, the air inlet 35 is located downstream of the heater unit.

[0053] An outlet 36 is provided on the air supply path 34. The outlet 36 is an opening for gas to flow out of the air supply path 34. Driven by the fan 33, gas flows out of the air supply path 34 through the outlet 36. In one example, the outlet 36 is located offset from the heater unit in the opposite direction to the second direction D2. That is, the outlet 36 is located upstream of the heater unit in the direction in which the medium M1 is conveyed on the support platform 17. Therefore, the gas blown out from the outlet 36 easily flows in the second direction D2 on the support platform 17.

[0054] The outlet 36 is located in the second direction D2 at a position where the distance between the first heater unit 23 and the outlet 36 is less than the distance between the second heater unit 24 and the outlet 36. More specifically, the outlet 36 is located in the second direction D2 at a position where the distance between the first heater unit 23 and the outlet 36 is less than the distance between the second heater unit 24 and the outlet 36. More specifically, the outlet 36 is located in the second direction D2 at a position where the distance between the first reflector 27 and the outlet 36 is less than the distance between the second reflector 28 and the outlet 36. That is, the first reflector 27 is located closer to the outlet 36 than the second reflector 28. Therefore, the first heating element 25 may come into contact with the gas blown out from the outlet 36. In this regard, the first reflector 27 is located at a position that blocks the space between the first heating element 25 and the outlet 36. This blocking is achieved by positioning the first reflector 27, for example, at a position where the direction in which the first normal L1 extends is close to the direction of the gas blown out from the outlet 36. This reduces the likelihood of a temperature drop in the first heating element 25.

[0055] The role and effects of the embodiments Next, the function and effects of the above embodiments will be explained.

[0056] (1) The second heating element 26 is located at a position different from that of the first heating element 25 in both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The second reflector 28 reflects infrared rays in a manner that overlaps with the first irradiation area R1 in the second direction D2. According to the above structure, the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24 heat the medium M1 from the same surface. Since the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 overlap in the second direction D2, the discrepancy between the timing of the first heater unit 23 heating the medium M1 and the timing of the second heater unit 24 heating the medium M1 is reduced. As a result, the drying device 21 can dry the medium M1 uniformly.

[0057] (2) The second reflector 28 is located at a position where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the second normal L2 extends in a direction different from the first normal L1. According to the above structure, the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 are likely to overlap in the second direction D2.

[0058] (3) The drying apparatus 21 includes an air supply section 32 that supplies air to the support platform 17 in a manner that allows gas to flow on the support platform 17. The first reflector 27 is located in the second direction D2 at a position where the distance between the first reflector 27 and the outlet 36 is less than the distance between the second reflector 28 and the outlet 36. The first reflector 27 is positioned to block the space between the outlet 36 and the first heating element 25. According to the above structure, the air supply implemented by the air supply section 32 promotes the drying of the medium M1. By positioning the first reflector 27 to block the space between the outlet 36 and the first heating element 25, the possibility of the temperature of the first heating element 25 decreasing due to the air supply implemented by the air supply section 32 can be reduced.

[0059] (4) The drying device 21 includes a transmitting member located between the first heating element 25 and the support platform 17, which allows infrared light to pass through. According to the above structure, the transmitting member prevents the first heating element 25 from coming into contact with external gas. This reduces the possibility that the temperature of the first heating element 25 may decrease due to external gas.

[0060] (5) The drying device 21 includes a first transmitting member 29. The first transmitting member 29 is mounted on the first reflector 27 such that the first heating element 25 is surrounded by the first reflector 27 and the first transmitting member 29. According to the above structure, by surrounding the first heating element 25 with the first reflector 27 and the first transmitting member 29, the possibility of the temperature of the first heating element 25 decreasing due to external gas can be reduced. (6) The drying device 21 includes a second transmitting member 30 located between the second heating element 26 and the support platform 17 and allowing infrared light to pass through. According to the above structure, by passing through the second transmitting member 30, the second heating element 26 is less likely to come into contact with external gas. Thus, in addition to the first heating element 25, the possibility of the temperature of the second heating element 26 decreasing due to external gas is also reduced.

[0061] (7) The second permeable member 30 is mounted on the second reflector 28 such that the second heating element 26 is surrounded by the second reflector 28 and the second permeable member 30. According to the above structure, by surrounding the second heating element 26 by the second reflector 28 and the second permeable member 30, the possibility of the temperature of the second heating element 26 decreasing due to external gas can be reduced.

[0062] (8) A common permeable component 31 is located between the first heating element 25 and the support platform 17, and between the second heating element 26 and the support platform 17. According to the above structure, by using the common permeable component 31, the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are less likely to come into contact with external gas. This reduces the possibility that the temperature of the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 will decrease due to external gas.

[0063] Change Example The above embodiments can be implemented by modification as follows. The above embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical non-inconsistency.

[0064] •like Figure 4 As shown, the heater unit may also have multiple heating elements. In this variation, the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24 each have multiple heating elements. Alternatively, one of the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24 may have multiple heating elements. By having the heater unit have multiple heating elements, it is possible to precisely select the heating element that matches the width of the medium M1 and drives it. This reduces the power consumption of the drying device 21.

[0065] The first heater unit 23 has a plurality of first heating elements 25. In one example, the first heater unit 23 has three first heating elements 25. The plurality of first heating elements 25 are arranged at intervals along a first direction D1. The plurality of first heating elements 25 are located at different positions along the first direction D1. For example, the three first heating elements 25 are located at positions along the first direction D1 opposite to the central portion and the two end portions of the support platform 17, respectively. The plurality of first heating elements 25 are located at the same positions along a second direction D2. That is, the plurality of first heating elements 25 are located at positions that overlap when viewed from the first direction D1. The plurality of first heating elements 25 are arranged at intervals along an imaginary axis extending along the first direction D1.

[0066] The second heater unit 24 has a plurality of second heating elements 26. In one example, the second heater unit 24 has two second heating elements 26. The plurality of second heating elements 26 are located at intervals along the first direction D1. The plurality of second heating elements 26 are located at positions different from the plurality of first heating elements 25 along the first direction D1. The plurality of second heating elements 26 are located at different positions along the first direction D1. The plurality of second heating elements 26 are located between two adjacent first heating elements 25 along the first direction D1. The plurality of second heating elements 26 are located at complementary positions relative to the plurality of first heating elements 25. The plurality of second heating elements 26 are located at the same positions along the second direction D2. That is, the plurality of second heating elements 26 are located at positions that overlap when viewed from the first direction D1. The plurality of second heating elements 26 are located at intervals along an imaginary axis extending along the first direction D1.

[0067] Multiple first heating elements 25 and multiple second heating elements 26 are arranged alternately in the first direction D1. The multiple first heating elements 25 and multiple second heating elements 26 are arranged in a staggered manner in the first direction D1.

[0068] The first reflector 27 may also be configured to cover a plurality of first heating elements 25. The first reflector 27 may also extend elongatedly in the first direction D1. The first heater unit 23 may also have a first reflector 27 for each first heating element 25. The first heater unit 23 may also have the same number of first reflectors 27 as the first heating elements 25.

[0069] The second reflector 28 may also be configured to cover a plurality of second heating elements 26. The second reflector 28 may also extend elongatedly in the first direction D1. The second heater unit 24 may also have a second reflector 28 for each second heating element 26. The second heater unit 24 may also have the same number of second reflectors 28 as the number of second heating elements 26.

[0070] •like Figure 5 As shown, the reflector can also be located where the normal is perpendicular to the support platform 17. In this modified example, the second reflector 28 is located where the second normal L2 is perpendicular to the support platform 17. The first reflector 27 is located where the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 overlap. The first reflector 27 is located where the first normal L1 is inclined relative to the support platform 17.

[0071] The first reflector 27 can also be located perpendicular to the first normal L1 relative to the support platform 17. In this case, the second reflector 28 is located at an angle relative to the second normal L2 relative to the support platform 17.

[0072] The height of the first heating element 25 relative to the support platform 17 can also be lower than the height of the second heating element 26 relative to the support platform 17. When the normal line is inclined relative to the support platform 17, the distance between the heating element on the normal line and the support platform 17 tends to increase compared to the case where the normal line is perpendicular to the support platform 17. Therefore, by reducing the height of the first heating element 25 relative to the support platform 17, the distance between the first heating element 25 on the first normal line L1 and the support platform 17 is made closer to the distance between the second heating element 26 on the second normal line L2 and the support platform 17.

[0073] •like Figure 6 As shown, the drying apparatus 21 may also include a third heater unit 37. The third heater unit 37 is located at a different position in the second direction D2 from the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24. The third heater unit 37 is located at a position offset in the second direction D2 relative to the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24. The first heater unit 23, the second heater unit 24 and the third heater unit 37 are arranged in this order, for example, in the second direction D2.

[0074] The first heater unit 23, the second heater unit 24, and the third heater unit 37 are respectively located at positions in the first direction D1 where they can complementaryly heat the medium M1. Specifically, the third heater unit 37 is located at a position that irradiates infrared light into an area in the first direction D1 that is difficult for the infrared light generated by the first heater unit 23 and the second heater unit 24 to reach. The third heater unit 37 is located at a position in the first direction D1 where the third irradiation area R3 is continuous with respect to either the first irradiation area R1 or the second irradiation area R2. The third irradiation area R3 is the area on the support platform 17 reached by the infrared light irradiated from the third heater unit 37.

[0075] The third heater unit 37 is located at a position where the third irradiation area R3 overlaps with the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 when viewed from the first direction D1. Preferably, the first irradiation area R1, the second irradiation area R2, and the third irradiation area R3 are located at positions where they completely overlap when viewed from the first direction D1. Alternatively, the first irradiation area R1, the second irradiation area R2, and the third irradiation area R3 may be located at positions where they partially overlap when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0076] The third heater unit 37 has one or more third heating elements 38. In one example, the third heater unit 37 has one third heating element 38. The third heating element 38 is located at a position different from the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 in the first direction D1. The third heating element 38 is located at a position offset from the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 when viewed from the second direction D2.

[0077] The third heating element 38 is located at a different position from the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 in the second direction D2. The third heating element 38 is located at a position offset from the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0078] The third heater unit 37 has one or more third reflectors 39. The third reflector 39 is located at the position where the third irradiation area R3 overlaps with the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 in the second direction D2. The third reflector 39 is located at the position where the third irradiation area R3 overlaps with the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2 when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0079] The third reflector 39 reflects infrared rays in the direction extending from the third normal L3. The third reflector 39 covers the third heating element 38 such that the third heating element 38 is positioned on the third normal L3. The third reflector 39 is located at a position where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the third normal L3 extends in a direction different from both the first normal L1 and the second normal L2. For example, the third reflector 39 is located at a position where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the third normal L3 intersects with the support platform 17 towards the points where the first normal L1 and the second normal L2 intersect. Therefore, when viewed from the first direction D1, the third irradiation area R3 overlaps with the first irradiation area R1 and the second irradiation area R2.

[0080] The third reflector 39 may also be located at a position where the third normal L3 is inclined relative to the support platform 17 when viewed from the first direction D1. For example, the third reflector 39 may be located at a position where, when viewed from the first direction D1, the third normal L3 includes a component extending in the direction opposite to the second direction D2. The third normal L3 may also extend perpendicularly relative to the support platform 17.

[0081] The drying device 21 may also include a third transmission component 40. The third transmission component 40 is located between the third heating element 38 and the support platform 17. The third transmission component 40 is mounted on the third reflector 39. The third transmission component 40 is mounted in such a way that it surrounds the third heating element 38 through the third reflector 39 and the third transmission component 40.

[0082] The drying device 21 may also include a common permeable component 31. The common permeable component 31 may also be located between the first heating element 25 and the support platform 17, between the second heating element 26 and the support platform 17, and between the third heating element 38 and the support platform 17.

[0083] Technical ideas The following describes the technical concepts and effects learned from the above embodiments and modifications.

[0084] (A) A drying apparatus, which is a drying apparatus opposite to a support platform supporting a conveyed medium, and comprising: a first heater unit for heating the medium; a second heater unit for heating the medium, the first heater unit having: a first heating element extending in a first direction and emitting infrared radiation; a first reflector reflecting the infrared radiation emitted by the first heating element toward the support platform, the second heater unit having: A second heating element extends in the first direction and radiates infrared rays. A second reflector reflects the infrared rays emitted by the second heating element toward the support platform. The second heating element is located at a position different from that of the first heating element in both the first direction and a second direction (different from the first direction) in which the medium being transported on the support platform moves. The second reflector reflects the infrared rays in a manner that overlaps with the area on the support platform irradiated by the infrared rays reflected by the first reflector in the second direction. According to this structure, the first heater unit and the second heater unit heat the medium from the same surface. The area irradiated by the first heater unit overlaps with the area irradiated by the second heater unit in the second direction. Therefore, the discrepancy between the timing of heating the medium by the first heater unit and the timing of heating the medium by the second heater unit is reduced. Thus, the drying apparatus can dry the medium uniformly.

[0085] (B) In the above-described drying apparatus, the second reflector may be positioned such that, when viewed from the first direction, the normal to the second reflector extends in a direction different from the normal to the first reflector. According to this structure, the area of ​​the first heater unit irradiating infrared light and the area of ​​the second heater unit irradiating infrared light easily overlap in the second direction.

[0086] (C) In the above-described drying apparatus, the first heater unit may also be configured such that the first heating element is one of a plurality of first heating elements, which are arranged at intervals in the first direction. According to this structure, the first heating element to be driven from among the plurality of first heating elements can be selected to match the width of the medium. This reduces power consumption.

[0087] (D) In ​​the drying apparatus described above, the first reflector may extend in the first direction to cover the plurality of first heating elements. According to this structure, the structure of the first heater unit can be simplified compared to the case where the first heater unit has a first reflector for each first heating element.

[0088] (E) In the above-described drying apparatus, the second heater unit may also be configured such that the second heating element is one of a plurality of second heating elements, which are located at positions different from the plurality of first heating elements in the first direction and are arranged at intervals in the first direction. According to this structure, the second heating element to be driven can be selected from the plurality of second heating elements to match the size of the medium. This reduces power consumption.

[0089] (F) In the drying apparatus described above, the second reflector may extend in the first direction to cover the plurality of second heating elements. According to this structure, the structure of the second heater unit can be simplified compared to the case where the second heater unit has a second reflector for each second heating element.

[0090] (G) The above-described drying apparatus may also be configured such that it includes an air supply unit that supplies air to the support platform in a manner that causes gas to flow on the support platform. The air supply unit includes: a fan that circulates the gas; an air supply path with an opening for the gas to be blown out by the fan; and a first reflector located at a position where the distance between the first reflector and the air outlet in the second direction is less than the distance between the second reflector and the air outlet, and at a position that blocks the air outlet from the first heating element. According to this structure, the air supply implemented by the air supply unit promotes the drying of the medium. By positioning the first reflector at a position that blocks the air outlet from the first heating element, the possibility of the temperature of the first heating element decreasing due to the air supply implemented by the air supply unit can be reduced.

[0091] (H) The drying apparatus described above can also be configured to include a permeable component located between the first heating element and the support platform, allowing infrared light to pass through. According to this structure, the permeable component prevents the first heating element from easily coming into contact with external gas. This reduces the likelihood of the temperature of the first heating element decreasing due to external gas.

[0092] (I) In the above-described drying apparatus, the permeating member can also be mounted on the first reflector such that it surrounds the first heating element through the first reflector and the permeating member. According to this structure, by surrounding the first heating element with the first reflector and the permeating member, the possibility of the temperature of the first heating element decreasing due to external gas is reduced.

[0093] (J) In the above-described drying apparatus, the method can also be adopted in which the permeating member is a first permeating member, and the drying apparatus includes a second permeating member, the second permeating member being located between the second heating element and the support platform and allowing infrared light to pass through. According to the above structure, the second heating element becomes less susceptible to contact with external gas through the second permeating member. Therefore, in addition to reducing the first heating element, the possibility of the temperature of the second heating element decreasing due to external gas is also reduced.

[0094] (K) In the above-described drying apparatus, the second permeating member can also be mounted on the second reflector such that it surrounds the second heating element through the second reflector and the second permeating member. According to this structure, by surrounding the second heating element with the second reflector and the second permeating member, the possibility of the temperature of the second heating element decreasing due to external gas is reduced.

[0095] (L) In the above-described drying apparatus, the permeation member can also be located between the first heating element and the support platform, and between the second heating element and the support platform. According to this structure, the permeation member makes it less likely for the first and second heating elements to come into contact with external gas. This reduces the likelihood that the temperatures of the first and second heating elements will decrease due to external gas.

[0096] (M) A printing apparatus comprising: a printing unit for printing by spraying liquid onto a medium; a conveying unit for conveying the medium; a support platform for supporting the medium onto which liquid has been sprayed; a first heater unit opposite the support platform for heating the medium; and a second heater unit opposite the support platform for heating the medium. The first heater unit includes: a first heating element extending in a first direction and emitting infrared radiation; and a first reflector reflecting the infrared radiation emitted by the first heating element toward the support platform. The second heater unit includes: a second heating element extending in the first direction and emitting infrared radiation; and a second reflector reflecting the infrared radiation emitted by the second heating element toward the support platform. The second heating element is located at a position different from that of the first heating element in the first direction and in a second direction different from that of the medium being conveyed on the support platform. The second reflector reflects infrared radiation in such a way that it overlaps with the area on the support platform illuminated by the infrared radiation reflected by the first reflector in the second direction. Based on the above structure, the same effect as the drying device described above can be obtained.

[0097] Symbol Explanation 11… Printing apparatus, 12… Housing, 13… Base, 14… Conveying section, 15… Printing section, 16… Printing support, 17… Support, 21… Drying apparatus, 22… Housing, 23… First heater unit, 24… Second heater unit, 25… First heating element, 26… Second heating element, 27… First reflector, 28… Second reflector, 29… First transmission component, 30… Second transmission component, 31… Common transmission component, 32… Air supply section, 33… Fan, 34… Air supply path, 35… Air inlet, 36… Outlet, 37… Third heater unit, 38… Third heating element, 39… Third reflector, 40… Third transmission component, D1… First direction, D2… Second direction, L1… First normal, L2… Second normal, L3… Third normal, M1… Medium, R1… First irradiation area, R2… Second irradiation area, R3… Third irradiation area.

Claims

1. A drying apparatus, characterized in that, It is positioned opposite a support platform that supports the medium being transported, and includes: The first heater unit heats the medium; The second heater unit heats the medium. The first heater unit has: A first heating element extends in a first direction and radiates infrared radiation; The first reflector reflects the infrared radiation emitted by the first heating element toward the support platform. The second heater unit has: A second heating element extends in the first direction and radiates infrared rays; The second reflector reflects the infrared radiation emitted by the second heating element toward the support platform. The second heating element is located at a position different from that of the first heating element in the first direction and in a second direction, which is different from the first direction and is the direction in which the medium being transported on the support platform moves. The second reflector reflects infrared light in such a way that it overlaps with the area on the support platform illuminated by the infrared light reflected by the first reflector in the second direction.

2. The drying apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second reflector is located at a position where, when viewed from the first direction, the normal of the second reflector extends in a direction different from the normal of the first reflector.

3. The drying apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first heater unit has multiple first heating elements. The first heating element is one of the plurality of first heating elements. The plurality of first heating elements are arranged at intervals in the first direction.

4. The drying apparatus as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first reflector extends in the first direction in such a way that it covers the plurality of first heating elements.

5. The drying apparatus as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The second heater unit has multiple second heating elements. The second heating element is one of the plurality of second heating elements. The plurality of second heating elements are located at positions different from the plurality of first heating elements in the first direction, and are arranged at intervals in the first direction.

6. The drying apparatus as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The second reflector extends in the first direction in a manner that covers the plurality of second heating elements.

7. The drying apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It includes an air supply unit that supplies air to the support platform in a manner that causes gas to flow on the support platform. The air supply unit has: A fan, which makes air flow; The air supply path has an opening at its top for the air to be blown out by the fan. The first reflector is located at a position where the distance between the first reflector and the outlet is less than the distance between the second reflector and the outlet in the second direction, and is located at a position that blocks the space between the outlet and the first heating element.

8. The drying apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, It has a transmitting component, which is located between the first heating element and the support platform and allows infrared light to pass through.

9. The drying apparatus as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The transmitting component is mounted on the first reflector in such a way that it surrounds the first heating element through the first reflector and the transmitting component.

10. The drying apparatus as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The transmitting component is the first transmitting component. The drying device includes a second permeable component, which is located between the second heating element and the support platform and allows infrared light to pass through.

11. The drying apparatus as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The second transparent component is mounted on the second reflector in such a way that it surrounds the second heating element through the second reflector and the second transparent component.

12. The drying apparatus as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The permeable component is located between the first heating element and the support platform, and between the second heating element and the support platform.

13. A printing apparatus, characterized in that, have: The printing section performs printing by spraying liquid onto a medium; The conveying unit is responsible for transporting the medium. A support platform that supports the liquid medium being sprayed out. The first heater unit is positioned opposite the support platform and heats the medium. The second heater unit is positioned opposite the support platform and heats the medium. The first heater unit has: A first heating element extends in a first direction and radiates infrared radiation; The first reflector reflects the infrared radiation emitted by the first heating element toward the support platform. The second heater unit has: A second heating element extends in the first direction and radiates infrared rays; The second reflector reflects the infrared radiation emitted by the second heating element toward the support platform. The second heating element is located at a position different from that of the first heating element in the first direction and in a second direction, which is different from the first direction and is the direction in which the medium being transported on the support platform moves. The second reflector reflects infrared light in such a way that it overlaps with the area on the support platform illuminated by the infrared light reflected by the first reflector in the second direction.

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