Printing apparatus

Abstract

The utility model discloses printing equipment, which comprises a conveying part for conveying paper along a first horizontal direction and a plurality of vehicle spraying module groups arranged at intervals along the first horizontal direction, and each vehicle spraying module group comprises a vehicle spraying assembly capable of moving along a vertical direction and a cleaning assembly positioned on one side of the vehicle spraying assembly in the first horizontal direction, the cleaning assembly can move relative to the vehicle spraying assembly in the first horizontal direction. The spraying vehicle assembly comprises a spraying head mounting part, a spraying vehicle guiding part and a spraying vehicle driving part, a plurality of spraying heads are arranged at the end, facing the conveying part, of the spraying head mounting part, and the cleaning assembly comprises a cleaning mounting part provided with a plurality of cleaning parts, a cleaning guiding part and a cleaning driving part; according to the vehicle spraying module set, the multiple vehicle spraying assemblies are ingeniously used for arranging the cleaning modules at intervals in the first horizontal direction, and the space occupied by printing equipment in the width direction is not additionally increased.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of inkjet equipment technology, and in particular to a printing device. Background Technology

[0002] Printing equipment is one of the important output devices of a computer. It can record the results of machine processing on paper in the form of characters, graphics and other human-readable forms for long-term preservation as hard copies. As the core component of printing equipment, the inkjet printhead (referred to as "printhead") directly affects the print quality and output stability of the printing equipment. Since the printhead is a relatively delicate electronic component, ink is prone to clogging inside the nozzle, resulting in a decline in print quality. In order to maintain the stability of equipment output, an automatic printhead cleaning mechanism is generally used to clean the residual ink in the nozzle to maintain the stability of equipment output.

[0003] For example, a Chinese patent document (publication number CN217373907U) discloses an automatic printhead cleaning mechanism. This automatic cleaning mechanism uses an ink stack receiving plate, support plate, mounting plate, ink pump, and ink pad to draw out the ink from the printhead, thereby cleaning the residual ink inside the printhead. However, under some process requirements, printing equipment usually has multiple print carriages spaced apart along the printing direction of the paper (i.e., the length direction of the printing equipment). When the automatic cleaning mechanism is not in operation, it is located on one side of the print carriage in the width direction. This makes the printing equipment occupy a large space not only in the length direction but also in the width direction, which makes the printing equipment extremely inconvenient during transportation and storage. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to solve the technical problem that in the prior art, when the automatic cleaning mechanism is not in operation, it is located on one side of the printing carriage in the width direction, which increases the space occupied by the printing equipment in the width direction, causing great inconvenience to the printing equipment during transportation and storage.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention discloses a printing device that, by improving the layout of the cleaning components in the print head module, achieves effective print head cleaning without increasing the space occupied in the width direction of the printing device.

[0006] Specifically, this printing equipment includes a transport component for conveying paper along a first horizontal direction, and a plurality of printhead modules spaced apart along the first horizontal direction. Each printhead module includes a printhead assembly movable in a vertical direction, and a cleaning assembly located on one side of the printhead assembly in the first horizontal direction, the cleaning assembly being movable relative to the printhead assembly in the first horizontal direction.

[0007] The spray truck assembly includes a nozzle mounting component, a spray truck guide component, and a spray truck drive component. The nozzle mounting component has multiple nozzles at one end facing the transport component. The spray truck guide component extends vertically, and the spray truck drive component can drive the nozzle mounting component to move vertically along the spray truck guide component.

[0008] The cleaning assembly includes a cleaning mounting component with multiple cleaning elements, a cleaning guide component, and a cleaning drive component. The multiple cleaning elements are located at the end of the cleaning mounting component away from the transport component and correspond one-to-one with multiple nozzles. The cleaning guide component extends along a first horizontal direction. The cleaning drive component can drive the cleaning mounting component to move along the cleaning guide component, so that the multiple cleaning elements can switch between an initial state that is offset from the multiple nozzles and a cleaning state that is aligned with the multiple nozzles in the vertical direction.

[0009] The spray truck drive component drives the nozzle mounting component to move along the spray truck guide component to approach the cleaning mounting component. The cleaning drive component drives the cleaning mounting component to move from the initial state to the cleaning state along the cleaning guide component. Multiple cleaning components are respectively opposite to the corresponding nozzles and perform cleaning.

[0010] Using the above technical solution, this printing equipment arranges multiple printhead modules at intervals in the first horizontal direction. These modules cooperate to print on paper on a transport component. Specifically, when the paper on the transport component is transported to the bottom of the printhead assembly, the printhead drive component drives the printhead mounting component to move vertically toward the paper along the printhead guide component until the distance between the printhead and the paper reaches a predetermined distance (between 1 and 2 millimeters). Then, the printhead sprays ink toward the paper. Within the predetermined distance, this ensures that the ink sprayed by the printhead lands accurately on the paper, preventing ink splashing and waste due to excessive distance, and avoiding the risk of printhead clogging due to insufficient distance. At this time, multiple cleaning components are in an initial state staggered from the multiple printheads, avoiding any impact on the normal ink spraying of the printheads.

[0011] When multiple nozzles on the spray truck assembly need to be cleaned, ensure that the nozzle mounting component is located at the end of the spray truck guide component away from the transport component to prevent the nozzles from interfering with the movement of the cleaning components below. Then, the cleaning drive component drives the cleaning mounting component to move from the initial state to the cleaning state along the cleaning guide component. Multiple cleaning components and multiple nozzles are aligned vertically. The spray truck drive component drives the nozzle mounting component to move downward along the spray truck guide component, so that multiple nozzles come into contact with the corresponding cleaning components, and the cleaning components begin to clean the nozzles.

[0012] To achieve high printing quality, existing printing devices require multiple printhead components to be spaced apart and work together, inevitably resulting in the printing device occupying a significant amount of space in the first horizontal direction (i.e., the length direction of the printing device). However, the printing device proposed in this invention cleverly utilizes the spaced cleaning modules between the multiple printhead components in the first horizontal direction, without increasing the space occupied by the printing device in other horizontal directions (e.g., the width direction of the printing device). Due to the reduction in the space occupied by the printing device, it is more flexible and convenient during transportation and storage.

[0013] Furthermore, for some complex printing tasks, especially when high-precision printing or printing on paper of different sizes is required, the position of the printhead needs to be precisely adjusted. To this end, this embodiment also discloses a printing device in which multiple printheads on the printhead mounting component are arranged in an array, including multiple columns spaced apart along a first horizontal direction, each column spaced apart along a second horizontal direction, the second horizontal direction being perpendicular to the first horizontal direction.

[0014] The nozzle mounting components include a nozzle connector, a nozzle mounting plate, and a nozzle adjustment assembly disposed between the spray truck connector and the nozzle mounting plate. The nozzle connector is slidably connected to the spray truck guide component and is drively connected to the spray truck drive component.

[0015] Furthermore, multiple nozzles are mounted on the nozzle mounting plate, and the nozzle adjustment assembly can be linked to the nozzle mounting plate to translate in the first horizontal direction or the second horizontal direction relative to the nozzle connecting seat, or / and rotate around the vertical direction.

[0016] Using the above technical solution, multiple printheads on the printhead mounting component are arranged in an array, allowing the printheads to cover a wider printing area. During printing, according to the needs of the printing task, the printhead drive component first drives the printhead mounting component to move vertically to a suitable position along the printhead guide component. Then, the printhead adjustment assembly adjusts the position of the printhead mounting plate and the printheads on it in the first horizontal direction, the second horizontal direction, or rotates them around the vertical direction to ensure that the printheads are accurately aligned with the printing area, achieving high-precision printing.

[0017] Furthermore, in the prior art, cleaning of the printhead often only involves simple wiping or rinsing operations, which cannot effectively remove stubborn stains on the printhead surface or keep the printhead moist. This embodiment also provides a printing device in which each cleaning component includes a moisturizing component and a scraper, a scraper lifting component, a scraper driving component, and a scraper guide component. The scraper is disposed on one side of the moisturizing component in the second horizontal direction. The scraper lifting component drives the scraper to move in the vertical direction. The scraper guide component extends in the second horizontal direction. The scraper driving component drives the scraper to move along the scraper guide component.

[0018] The cleaning drive component drives the cleaning installation component into the cleaning state. The lower end of each nozzle of the spray truck module first abuts against the corresponding moisturizing component and then moves vertically. The scraper lifting component drives the scraper to move vertically toward the nozzle and aligns the upper end of the scraper with the lower end of the corresponding nozzle. The scraper is then driven to move along the scraper guide in the second horizontal direction.

[0019] Using the above technical solution, when the cleaning drive component drives the cleaning mounting component into the cleaning state, the lower end of each nozzle of the spray truck assembly first abuts against the corresponding moisturizing component to keep the nozzle moist. Subsequently, the spray truck drive component drives the nozzle mounting component to move upward along the spray truck guide component, so that each nozzle is separated from the corresponding moisturizing component. The scraper lifting component drives the scraper to move vertically toward the nozzle until the upper end of the scraper is aligned with the lower end of the corresponding nozzle. Finally, the scraper drive component drives the scraper to move along the scraper guide component in the second horizontal direction to scrape off the stains and excess ink on the nozzle surface.

[0020] This cleaning assembly is based on the synergistic effect of a humidifier and a scraper. The humidifier ensures that the printhead remains moist during the cleaning process to prevent the ink from drying out; the scraper, through lifting and horizontal movement, thoroughly removes stains and excess ink from the surface of the printhead, which not only improves cleaning efficiency but also ensures printhead stability and print quality. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a printing device (with the spray gun assembly in a non-working state and the cleaning assembly in an initial state) provided for an embodiment of this utility model;

[0022] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a printing device (with the printing assembly in working state and the cleaning assembly in initial state) provided for an embodiment of this utility model;

[0023] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a printing device (the printing assembly is cleaned by a cleaning assembly in a cleaning state) provided for an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the printing module of the printing equipment provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0025] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the frame of the printing device provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0026] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the spray gun mounting component of the printing equipment provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0027] Figure 7A top view of the printhead mounting component of a printing device provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0028] Figure 8 A partial schematic diagram of the nozzle adjustment assembly of the printing device provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0029] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the structure of multiple nozzles of a printing device provided for an embodiment of this utility model;

[0030] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of the cleaning assembly of the printing device provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0031] Figure 11 A side view of the cleaning and mounting component of the printing device provided in an embodiment of the present invention, viewed along a second horizontal direction.

[0032] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0033] 10. Transport components; 101. Transport belt; 102. Transport rollers;

[0034] 20. Spray painting components;

[0035] 210. Nozzle mounting components; 211. Nozzle connector; 212. Nozzle mounting plate; 213. Nozzle adjustment assembly;

[0036] 214. First mounting block; 215. First connecting block; 216. First adjusting screw;

[0037] 217. Second mounting block; 218. Second connecting block; 219. Second adjusting screw;

[0038] 220. Spray truck guide components; 221. Spray truck guide rail; 222. Spray truck slider;

[0039] 230. Spray truck drive components; 231. Spray truck drive motor; 232. Transmission rod; 233. Transmission block;

[0040] 201. Nozzle; 202. Main adjustment hole; 203. Auxiliary adjustment hole; 204. First distance detection element;

[0041] 30. Cleaning components;

[0042] 310. Clean the mounting components; 311. Clean the mounting plate;

[0043] 320. Clean the guide components; 321. Clean the guide rails; 322. Clean the sliders;

[0044] 330. Clean the drive components; 331. Clean the drive motor; 332. Clean the transmission belt;

[0045] 301. Cleaning component; 302. Humidifying component; 303. Scraper blade; 304. Scraper blade lifting component; 305. Scraper blade drive component; 306. Scraper blade guide component; 307. Humidifying pad; 308. Waste ink collector; 309. Waste ink pump;

[0046] 340. Second distance detection component;

[0047] 40. Framework;

[0048] X: First horizontal direction; Y: Second horizontal direction; Z: Vertical direction;

[0049] a. The spacing between two adjacent rows of nozzles;

[0050] b. The spacing between two adjacent nozzles in each column. Detailed Implementation

[0051] As noted in the background section, in existing printing equipment, the automatic cleaning mechanism is typically located on one side of the printhead in the width direction. This design not only increases the space occupied by the printing equipment in the width direction but also makes the printing equipment extremely inconvenient to transport and store. Due to space constraints, the transportation and storage costs of the printing equipment increase, and the flexibility and mobility of the printing equipment are also affected.

[0052] Therefore, this utility model provides a printing device, including a transport component for conveying paper along a first horizontal direction, and a plurality of printhead modules spaced apart along the first horizontal direction. Each printhead module includes a printhead assembly movable in a vertical direction, and a cleaning component located on one side of the printhead assembly in the first horizontal direction, the cleaning component being movable relative to the printhead assembly in the first horizontal direction. The printhead assembly includes a printhead mounting component, a printhead guide component, and a printhead drive component. A plurality of printheads are disposed on the end of the printhead mounting component facing the transport component. The cleaning component includes a cleaning mounting component with a plurality of cleaning elements, a cleaning guide component, and a cleaning drive component, the plurality of cleaning elements being disposed on the end of the cleaning mounting component facing away from the transport component.

[0053] When the cleaning unit needs to clean the printheads of the printhead assembly, the cleaning drive unit drives the cleaning mounting unit to move along the cleaning guide to below the printhead assembly. The printhead drive unit then drives the printhead mounting unit to move along the printhead guide toward the cleaning mounting unit. Multiple cleaning components are positioned opposite their respective printheads and perform cleaning. This printhead module cleverly utilizes the spacing between multiple printhead assemblies in the first horizontal direction to set up the cleaning module, without increasing the space occupied by the printing equipment in the width direction.

[0054] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the embodiments of this utility model will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, this printing device includes a transport component 10 that transports paper along a first horizontal direction X, and a plurality of printhead modules spaced apart along the first horizontal direction X. Each printhead module includes a printhead assembly 20 movable along a vertical direction Z, and a cleaning assembly 30 located on one side of the printhead assembly 20 in the first horizontal direction X, the cleaning assembly 30 being movable relative to the printhead assembly 20 along the first horizontal direction X.

[0056] The transport component 10 can be a belt, a movable suction cup, or a pusher plate commonly used in the art. Furthermore, when multiple printing modules are printing on the same side of the paper, the paper supported by the transport component 10 is typically in the form of... Figure 1 The arc shape shown makes the tension of this section of paper more stable.

[0057] Optionally, in one embodiment, the transport component 10 includes a transport belt 101 and a plurality of transport rollers 102, one of which is driven by a transport drive (e.g., a transport motor), thereby causing the transport belt 101 to roll smoothly around the plurality of transport rollers 102, realizing the function of transporting paper along the first horizontal direction X. The transport surface of the transport belt 101 can extend along the first horizontal direction X, or it can be arc-shaped in the vertical direction Z. Of course, in order to more conveniently control the transport of paper, a speed detection device for detecting the paper transport speed can be provided on the transport component 10. The speed detection device can be an angle detection encoder commonly used in the art. The angle detection encoder calculates the paper transport speed by detecting the rotation angle of the transport roller 102. Of course, the speed detection device can also be a sensor that directly detects the paper transport speed, such as a laser velocimeter or a radar velocimeter.

[0058] It should be noted that the printing equipment may have two, three, four, or other numbers of spray painting modules spaced at intervals along the first horizontal direction X; this embodiment does not impose a specific limitation on this. For ease of understanding, the following description will use two spray painting modules as an example.

[0059] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the spray truck assembly 20 includes a nozzle mounting component 210, a spray truck guide component 220, and a spray truck drive component 230. A plurality of nozzles 201 are disposed at one end of the nozzle mounting component 210 facing the transport component 10. Figure 6 As shown in the figure, the spray truck guide component 220 extends in the vertical direction Z, and the spray truck drive component 230 can drive the nozzle mounting component 210 to move in the vertical direction Z along the spray truck guide component 220.

[0060] The cleaning assembly 30 includes a cleaning mounting component 310 with multiple cleaning elements 301, a cleaning guide component 320, and a cleaning drive component 330. The multiple cleaning elements 301 are disposed at one end of the cleaning mounting component 310 away from the transport component 10 and correspond one-to-one with multiple nozzles 201. The cleaning guide component 320 extends along the first horizontal direction X. The cleaning drive component 330 can drive the cleaning mounting component 310 to move along the cleaning guide component 320, so that the multiple cleaning elements 301 switch between an initial state that is offset from the multiple nozzles 201 and a cleaning state that is aligned with the multiple nozzles 201 in the vertical direction Z.

[0061] The spray truck drive component 230 drives the nozzle mounting component 210 to move along the spray truck guide component 220 and approach the cleaning mounting component 310. The cleaning drive component 330 drives the cleaning mounting component 310 to move from the initial state to the cleaning state along the cleaning guide component 320. Multiple cleaning components 301 are respectively opposite to the corresponding nozzles 201 and perform cleaning.

[0062] Of course, the printing equipment is not limited to the above structure, but also includes a cover covering multiple printing modules, a control panel for easy operation by the operator, and a controller, etc. Those skilled in the art can design it according to actual conditions and specific needs, and this embodiment does not make specific limitations in this regard.

[0063] In this embodiment, the printing device has multiple printing modules spaced at intervals in the first horizontal direction X. These printing modules cooperate with each other to print on the paper on the transport component 10. Specifically, as... Figure 2 As shown, when the paper on the transport component 10 is transported to the underside of the printhead assembly 20, the carriage drive component can drive the printhead mounting component 210 to move vertically towards the paper along the printhead guide component 220 until the distance between the printhead 201 and the paper reaches a predetermined distance (between 1 and 2 mm). Then, the printhead 201 sprays ink towards the paper. Within the predetermined distance, it can be ensured that the ink sprayed by the printhead 201 accurately lands on the paper, preventing ink splashing and waste due to excessive distance, and avoiding the risk of printhead 201 clogging due to excessive distance. At this time, the multiple cleaning components 301 are in an initial state staggered from the multiple printheads 201, avoiding any impact on the normal ink spraying of the printheads 201.

[0064] like Figure 3As shown, when multiple nozzles 201 on the spray truck assembly 20 need to be cleaned, ensure that the nozzle mounting component 210 is located at the end of the spray truck guide component 220 away from the transport component 10 to prevent the nozzles 201 from interfering with the cleaning component 301 below. Then, the cleaning drive component 330 drives the cleaning mounting component 310 to move from the initial state to the cleaning state along the cleaning guide component 320. The multiple cleaning components 301 and the multiple nozzles 201 are aligned in the vertical Z direction. The spray truck drive component 230 drives the nozzle mounting component 210 to move downward along the spray truck guide component 220, so that the multiple nozzles 201 come into contact with the corresponding cleaning components 301, and the cleaning components 301 begin to clean the nozzles 201.

[0065] To achieve high printing quality, printing equipment requires multiple spray gun components 20 to be set up at intervals to cooperate with each other for printing, which inevitably results in the printing equipment occupying a lot of space in the first horizontal direction X. However, the printing equipment proposed in this embodiment cleverly utilizes the multiple spray gun components 20 to set up a cleaning module at intervals in the first horizontal direction X, without increasing the space occupied by the printing equipment in other horizontal directions. Due to the reduction in the space occupied by the printing equipment, the printing equipment is more flexible and convenient in transportation and storage.

[0066] Furthermore, to facilitate the installation of printhead modules within the printing equipment, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the printing device also includes a frame 40 disposed above the transport component 10. The spray vehicle guide component 220 and spray vehicle drive component 230 of the spray vehicle assembly 20, and the cleaning guide component 320 and cleaning drive component 330 of the cleaning assembly 30 are all disposed on the frame 40.

[0067] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the frame 40 is provided with printing modules on both sides of the first horizontal direction X, and two adjacent printing modules are symmetrically arranged in the first horizontal direction X with a close spacing between them. This layout not only improves printing efficiency but also ensures the uniformity of printing accuracy. At the same time, the two printing modules share a single frame 40, reducing the space occupied by the printing equipment in the first horizontal direction X.

[0068] Of course, in another alternative embodiment, multiple frames 40 correspond one-to-one with multiple spray truck modules, and only one corresponding spray truck module is assembled on each frame 40. This embodiment does not make a unique limitation on the assembly between the frames 40 and the spray truck modules.

[0069] The specific structure and working principle of the spraying assembly 20 are explained below.

[0070] The printhead assembly 20 includes a printhead mounting component 210, a printhead guide component 220, and a printhead drive component 230. The printhead mounting component 210 has multiple printheads 201 at one end facing the transport component 10 for spraying ink or other printing media onto the paper during printing. The printhead guide component 220 extends in the vertical direction Z, providing a stable moving track for the printhead mounting component 210. The printhead drive component 230 drives the printhead mounting component 210 to move up and down in the vertical direction Z along the printhead guide component 220. This allows the printhead mounting component 210 to switch between working and non-working states and adapt to printing needs at different heights.

[0071] like Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, in one embodiment, the printing device includes a frame 40. The spray carriage guide component 220 and the spray carriage drive component 230 of the spray carriage assembly 20 are both mounted on the frame 40. Specifically, the spray carriage drive component 230 is configured as a spray carriage drive motor 231. A transmission rod 232 is provided at the output end of the spray carriage drive motor 231, and the free end of the transmission rod 232 is connected to the printhead mounting component 210 via a transmission block 233 that threadedly engages with the high-precision lead screw. Therefore, the servo motor drives the high-precision lead screw to rotate, and the transmission block 233 converts the rotational motion of the high-precision lead screw into movement along the axis of the high-precision lead screw, thereby causing the printhead mounting component 210 to move vertically in the Z direction.

[0072] Of course, the present invention does not limit the specific connection structure of the spray truck drive motor 231 and the transmission rod 232. For example, in another embodiment, the spray truck drive motor 231 is a linear motor, and the transmission rod 232 is set as a light rod that can move along the vertical direction Z. The light rod is fixedly connected to the nozzle mounting component 210. Then, the linear motor drives the light rod to move the nozzle mounting component 210 in the vertical direction.

[0073] The spray truck guide component 220 includes a plurality of spray truck guide rails 221 spaced apart along the first horizontal direction X. Each spray truck guide rail 221 extends along the vertical direction Z and is provided with a spray truck slider 222. The nozzle connecting seat 211 is fixed on the spray truck slider 222. Specifically, the spray truck guide component 220 may include two, three, four or other numbers of spray truck guide rails 221. This embodiment does not make a specific limitation. In this embodiment, the cooperation of multiple spray truck guide rails 221 and corresponding spray truck sliders 222 can improve the stability and accuracy of the spray truck mounting component moving along the vertical direction Z.

[0074] During use, the spray truck drive motor 231 drives the transmission rod and links the nozzle mounting component 210 to move along the spray truck guide rail 221 via the spray truck slider 222.

[0075] Furthermore, for some complex printing tasks, especially those requiring high-precision printing or printing on paper of different sizes, precise adjustment of the printhead 201 position is necessary. Therefore, this embodiment also discloses a printing device, such as... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the multiple nozzles 201 on the nozzle mounting component 210 are arranged in an array, including multiple columns spaced apart along the first horizontal direction X, and each column spaced apart along the second horizontal direction Y, wherein the second horizontal direction Y is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction X.

[0076] The nozzle mounting component 210 includes a nozzle connecting seat 211, a nozzle mounting plate 212, and a nozzle adjusting assembly 213 disposed between the spray truck connecting seat and the nozzle mounting plate 212. The nozzle connecting seat 211 is slidably connected to the spray truck guide component 220 and is drively connected to the spray truck drive component 230.

[0077] Specifically, in one embodiment, the printhead mounting plate 212 is typically a sturdy and flat metal or plastic plate. Multiple printheads 201 are securely mounted on the printhead mounting plate 212 using conventional fixing methods such as threaded connections or snap-fits to ensure the stability and accuracy of the printheads 201 during printing. The printhead mounting base is connected to the transmission rod 232 at the output end of the printhead drive motor 231 and is fixedly connected to the printhead slider 222.

[0078] Furthermore, multiple nozzles 201 are mounted on the nozzle mounting plate 212, and the nozzle adjustment assembly 213 can move the nozzle mounting plate 212 relative to the nozzle connecting seat 211 in the first horizontal direction X or the second horizontal direction Y, or / and rotate around the vertical direction Z. That is to say, the nozzle adjustment assembly 213 can achieve at least one of the above three adjustment methods.

[0079] In this embodiment, multiple printheads 201 on the printhead mounting component 210 are arranged in an array, allowing the printheads 201 to cover a wider printing area. During printing, according to the needs of the printing task, the printhead drive component 230 first drives the printhead mounting component 210 to move to a suitable position in the vertical direction Z along the printhead guide component 220. Then, the printhead adjustment component 213 adjusts the position of the printhead mounting plate 212 and the printheads 201 on it in the first horizontal direction X and the second horizontal direction Y, or rotates them around the vertical direction Z, to ensure that the printheads 201 can be accurately aligned with the printing area, achieving high-precision printing.

[0080] Alternatively, in one embodiment, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the nozzle adjustment assembly 213 includes a pair of first mounting blocks 214 disposed on both sides of the nozzle mounting plate 212 in the second horizontal direction Y, a pair of first connecting blocks 215 disposed at corresponding positions of the nozzle connecting seat 211 on the first mounting blocks 214, and a first adjusting screw 216 connecting the corresponding first mounting blocks 214 and the first connecting blocks 215.

[0081] Specifically, the first mounting block 214 is set on both sides of the nozzle mounting plate 212 in the second horizontal direction Y, and can be fixed to the nozzle mounting plate 212 by bolts, welding or other connection methods. The first mounting block 214 is designed with threaded holes or through holes for connection with the first adjusting screw 216.

[0082] The nozzle connector 211 is provided with a pair of first connecting blocks 215 at the corresponding position of the first mounting block 214. These blocks can be fixed to the nozzle connector 211 by bolts, welding or other connection methods. The nozzle connector 211 is also designed with threaded holes or through holes for connecting to the other end of the first adjusting screw 216.

[0083] The first adjusting screw 216 is a component connecting the corresponding first mounting block 214 and first connecting block 215. It can be a precision-machined metal rod with a threaded portion and a smooth portion. The threaded portion is used to mate with threaded holes or through holes on the first mounting block 214 and the first connecting block 215 to achieve fastening and adjustment functions. By rotating the first adjusting screw 216, the position of the nozzle mounting plate 212 (and multiple nozzles 201) in the second horizontal direction Y can be adjusted.

[0084] When it is necessary to align the nozzles 201 of a pair of printing assembly 20 in the first horizontal direction X, and further adjust the position of multiple nozzles 201 of one of the printing assembly 20 in the second horizontal direction Y, the locking nut on the first adjusting screw 216 can be loosened, and then the first adjusting screw 216 can be rotated. Since the two ends of the first adjusting screw 216 are connected to the first mounting block 214 and the first connecting block 215 respectively, rotating the first adjusting screw 216 will move the nozzle mounting plate 212 (and the nozzles 201) in the second horizontal direction Y. By precisely adjusting the rotation angle and locking position of the first adjusting screw 216, the nozzles 201 can be precisely adjusted in the second horizontal direction Y. Through the above adjustment, the nozzles 201 of the two printing assembly 20 are aligned in the first horizontal direction X and placed on the same printing line, which helps to achieve accurate color registration and high-quality printing output.

[0085] Furthermore, in one embodiment, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the nozzle adjustment assembly 213 includes a main adjustment hole 202 located in the center of the nozzle mounting plate 212 on one side of the second horizontal direction Y, and four auxiliary adjustment holes 203 located at the four corners of the nozzle mounting plate 212. Both the main adjustment hole 202 and the four auxiliary adjustment holes 203 are connected to the nozzle connecting seat 211 via pins. It should be noted that the main adjustment hole 202 can be an oblong hole extending along the second horizontal direction Y, while the auxiliary adjustment holes 203 located at the four corners can be oblong holes extending in a direction inclined relative to both the first horizontal direction X and the second horizontal direction Y. Furthermore, the width of the main adjustment hole 202 in the first horizontal direction X needs to be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the pin to allow for fine-tuning of the nozzle mounting plate 212 in the first horizontal direction X.

[0086] Furthermore, the nozzle adjustment assembly 213 also includes a pair of second mounting blocks 217 disposed on both sides of the nozzle mounting plate 212 in the second horizontal direction Y, a pair of second connecting blocks 218 on the nozzle connecting seat 211 corresponding to the pair of second mounting blocks 217, and a second adjusting screw 219 connecting the corresponding second mounting blocks 217 and the second connecting blocks 218. It should be noted that the second mounting blocks 217, the second connecting blocks 218 and the second adjusting screw 219 are similar in structure to the first mounting blocks 214, the first connecting blocks 215 and the first adjusting screw 216, only the positions are different, and will not be described in detail here.

[0087] In one adjustment method, the assembly between each pin and the adjustment hole is loosened, and the two second adjustment screws 219 are rotated, for example, one second adjustment screw 219 is tightened and the other second adjustment screw 219 is loosened, so that the printhead mounting plate 212 rotates around the pin of the main adjustment hole 202, ensuring that each row of printheads 201 on the printhead mounting plate 212 can extend along the second horizontal direction Y, perpendicular to the first horizontal direction X of the paper transport.

[0088] In another adjustment method, the assembly between each pin and the adjustment hole is loosened, and the two second adjustment screws 219 are rotated, for example, the two second adjustment screws 219 are tightened or loosened at the same time, so that the nozzle mounting plate 212 is precisely adjusted in the first horizontal direction X.

[0089] It should be noted that adjusting the position of the nozzle mounting plate 212 in the first horizontal direction X is to ensure better color matching between the two spray assembly 20s. For example... Figure 9As shown, on each printhead mounting plate 212, the distance between two adjacent rows of printheads 201 is 'a', and the distance between two adjacent printheads 201 in each row is 'b'. When two adjacent printhead assemblies 20 are printing, the distance between the landing point of the printhead 201 of the first printhead assembly 20 and the landing point of the printhead 201 of the second printhead assembly 20 should be a multiple of 'a'. This needs to be designed according to the paper transport speed and the distance between the two printhead mounting plates 212. When the paper transport speed is constant, the above design can be easily achieved by adjusting the position of the printhead mounting plate 212 in the first horizontal direction X.

[0090] Furthermore, the movement accuracy of the printhead 201 not only affects printing efficiency, but also, during the cleaning process, inaccurate movement of the printhead 201 can lead to problems such as uneven cleaning, omissions, or over-cleaning. To more precisely control the movement of the printhead 201, such as... Figure 1 As shown, in one embodiment, a first distance detection element 204 is provided on the lower surface of the printhead connector 211, opposite to the cleaning assembly 30 in the cleaning state. The first distance detection element 204 can detect the distance between the printhead 201 and the paper during printing, and the distance between the printhead 201 and the cleaning assembly 301 during cleaning. It can also prevent the printhead 201 from colliding with the cleaning assembly 30, thereby protecting the equipment from damage. The first distance detection element 204 may use principles such as laser, infrared, or ultrasonic waves to measure distance. This embodiment does not specifically limit the specific structure of the first distance detection element 204.

[0091] Regarding the specific structure of the nozzle adjustment assembly 213, it is not limited to the structure in the above embodiment. In another alternative embodiment, two first telescopic rods are spaced apart along the second horizontal direction Y on both sides of the nozzle mounting plate 212 in the first horizontal direction X, and two second telescopic rods are spaced apart along the first horizontal direction X on both sides of the second horizontal direction Y. One end of each telescopic rod is hinged to the nozzle mounting plate 212, and the other end is fixedly connected to the corresponding position of the nozzle connecting seat 211. By adjusting the extension and retraction of each telescopic rod, the nozzle mounting plate 212 can be adjusted in the first horizontal direction X, the second horizontal direction Y, and around the vertical direction Z. Those skilled in the art can design it according to actual conditions and specific needs, and this embodiment does not specifically limit it.

[0092] The specific structure and working principle of the cleaning component 30 are explained below.

[0093] The cleaning assembly 30 includes a cleaning mounting component 310 with multiple cleaning elements 301, a cleaning guide component 320, and a cleaning drive component 330. The multiple cleaning elements 301 are located at the end of the cleaning mounting component 310 away from the transport component 10 and correspond one-to-one with multiple nozzles 201. These cleaning elements 301 are used to remove impurities or residues from the surface of the nozzles 201. The cleaning guide component 320 extends along the first horizontal direction X, enabling the cleaning mounting component 310 to move horizontally. The cleaning drive component 330 drives the cleaning mounting component 310 to move along the cleaning guide component 320, realizing the switching from the initial state (the cleaning elements 301 and the nozzles 201 are misaligned) to the cleaning state (the cleaning elements 301 and the nozzles 201 are aligned in the vertical direction Z).

[0094] like Figure 1 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 11 As shown, in one embodiment, the printing device includes a frame 40. The cleaning drive component 330 and the cleaning guide component 320 of the cleaning assembly 30 are both disposed on the frame 40. Specifically, the cleaning mounting component 310 includes a cleaning mounting plate 311, the cleaning drive component 330 is configured as a cleaning drive motor 331, and the cleaning guide component 320 includes multiple cleaning guide rails 321. Each cleaning guide rail 321 extends along the first horizontal direction X and has a cleaning slider 322 disposed thereon. The number of cleaning guide rails 321 can be two, three, four, or other numbers; this embodiment does not specifically limit this number.

[0095] In this embodiment, a transmission belt 332 is provided at the output end of the cleaning drive motor 331, and the transmission belt 332 is connected to the cleaning mounting plate 311. The cleaning mounting plate 311 is fixedly connected to the cleaning slider 322. The cleaning drive motor 331 drives the transmission belt 332 and moves the cleaning mounting plate 311 along the cleaning guide rail 321. Of course, this embodiment does not limit the transmission structure between the cleaning drive motor 331 and the cleaning mounting plate 311.

[0096] In existing technologies, cleaning the spray head 201 often involves only simple wiping or rinsing, which cannot effectively remove stubborn stains from the surface of the spray head 201 or keep the spray head 201 moist. Therefore, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, this embodiment also provides a printing device. Each cleaning component 301 includes a moisturizing component 302, a scraper 303, a scraper lifting component 304, a scraper driving component 305, and a scraper guide component 306. The scraper 303 is disposed on one side of the moisturizing component 302 in the second horizontal direction Y. The scraper lifting component 304 drives the scraper 303 to move in the vertical direction Z. The scraper guide component 306 extends in the second horizontal direction Y. The scraper driving component 305 drives the scraper 303 to move along the scraper guide component 306.

[0097] The cleaning drive component 330 drives the cleaning installation component 310 to enter the cleaning state. The lower end of each nozzle 201 of the spray truck module first abuts against the corresponding moisturizing component 302 and then moves along the vertical direction Z. The scraper lifting component 304 drives the scraper 303 to move towards the nozzle 201 along the vertical direction Z, so that the upper end of the scraper 303 is aligned with the lower end of the corresponding nozzle 201, and drives the scraper 303 to move along the scraper guide component 306 along the second horizontal direction Y.

[0098] In this embodiment, when the cleaning drive component 330 drives the cleaning mounting component 310 into the cleaning state, the lower end of each nozzle 201 of the spray truck assembly 20 first abuts against the corresponding moisturizing component 302 to keep the nozzle 201 moist. Subsequently, the spray truck drive component 230 drives the nozzle mounting component 210 to move upward along the spray truck guide component 220, so that each nozzle 201 is separated from the corresponding moisturizing component 302. The scraper lifting component 304 drives the scraper 303 to move towards the nozzle 201 in the vertical direction Z until the upper end of the scraper 303 is aligned with the lower end of the corresponding nozzle 201. Finally, the scraper drive component 305 drives the scraper 303 to move in the second horizontal direction Y along the scraper guide component 306 to scrape off the stains and excess ink on the surface of the nozzle 201.

[0099] This cleaning assembly 30 is based on the synergistic effect of the moisturizing element 302 and the scraper 303. The moisturizing element 302 ensures that the printhead 201 remains moist during the cleaning process to prevent the ink from drying out. The scraper 303, through lifting and horizontal movement, thoroughly scrapes away stains and excess ink from the surface of the printhead 201, which not only improves cleaning efficiency but also ensures the stability of the printhead 201 and the printing quality.

[0100] More specifically, such as Figure 11 As shown, the humidifying component 302 includes a humidifying pad 307 and a waste ink collector 308 and a waste ink pump 309 connected to the humidifying pad 307 via tubing.

[0101] Specifically, the main function of the moisturizing pad 307 is to absorb and store a certain amount of ink to keep the printhead 201 moist. When the printhead 201 is not in printing mode, the moisturizing pad 307 can prevent ink evaporation, thereby extending the service life of the printhead 201.

[0102] The humidifying pad 307 is typically made of materials with good ink absorption properties, such as porous sponges or special fibers. These materials can quickly absorb and evenly distribute ink, ensuring that the printhead 201 can quickly obtain the required level of humidity when needed.

[0103] Waste ink collector 308 is used to collect waste ink generated during the printing process, including ink discharged when cleaning printhead 201 and ink that may drip from printhead 201 during the humidification process.

[0104] Waste ink collector 308 is generally a sealed container with sufficient capacity to store waste ink. To prevent waste ink leakage, waste ink collector 308 is usually equipped with a sealing cap and leak-proof measures. This embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0105] The main function of the waste ink pump 309 is to extract waste ink from the printhead 201 or the moisturizing pad 307 and transport it to the waste ink collector 308. The waste ink pump 309 ensures that waste ink is processed promptly and effectively. It typically operates under negative pressure or pressure difference, extracting waste ink from its source and transporting it through pipelines to the waste ink collector 308. The waste ink pump 309 can be motor-driven and has adjustable pumping speed and flow rate.

[0106] It should be noted that the waste ink collector 308 generally has a small volume and needs to be connected to a larger external waste ink tank through a pipeline to promptly discharge the waste ink in the waste ink collector 308 and regularly clean the waste ink in the waste ink tank; while the waste ink pump 309 needs to be maintained regularly to avoid malfunctions of the waste ink pump 309, which would prevent the waste ink from being effectively discharged, thereby affecting the performance and stability of the printing equipment.

[0107] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the scraper lifting member 304 is configured as a lifting cylinder, the scraper driving member 305 is configured as a scraper driving motor, and the scraper guide member 306 is configured as a scraper guide rail extending along the second horizontal direction Y. It should be noted that the travel distance of the scraper 303 driven by the scraper driving motor along the scraper guide rail is equal to or slightly greater than the width of a nozzle 201 in the second horizontal direction Y, making the structure of the cleaning assembly 30 in the second horizontal direction Y more compact.

[0108] Furthermore, in one embodiment, not only is a first distance detection element 204 provided on the lower surface of the nozzle connector 211, such as... Figure 11 As shown, the upper surface of the cleaning assembly 30 is provided with a second distance detection element 340 that is opposite to the nozzle connection seat 211 in the cleaning state. This arrangement forms a dual detection of the nozzle 201 position. When the distance data measured by the two detection elements are consistent or conform to a preset relationship, it can be confirmed that the nozzle 201 has accurately reached the predetermined position. The second distance detection element 340 can be a structure similar to the first distance detection element 204, or it can be set as a photoelectric protection device. This embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0109] It should be noted that, in addition to the specific embodiments described above, those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this utility model from the content disclosed in this specification. Although the description of this utility model is presented in conjunction with preferred embodiments, this does not mean that the features of this utility model are limited to that embodiment. On the contrary, the purpose of describing the utility model in conjunction with the embodiments is to cover other options or modifications that may be derived based on the claims of this utility model. In order to provide a deep understanding of this utility model, many specific details are included in the above description, and this utility model may also be implemented without using these details. In addition, in order to avoid confusion or obscuring the focus of this utility model, some specific details will be omitted in the description. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this utility model can be combined with each other.

[0110] It should be noted that in this specification, similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0111] In the description of this embodiment, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "inner", "bottom", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship that the utility model product is usually placed in during use. They are only for the convenience of describing the utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the utility model.

[0112] The terms “first”, “second”, etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be interpreted as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0113] In the description of this embodiment, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this embodiment based on the specific circumstances.

[0114] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described with reference to certain preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that the above description is a further detailed explanation of the present invention in conjunction with specific embodiments, and should not be construed as limiting the specific implementation of the present invention to these descriptions. Those skilled in the art can make various changes in form and detail, including some simple deductions or substitutions, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A printing apparatus comprising a transport member to transport a paper sheet in a first horizontal direction, and a plurality of carriage modules arranged at intervals in the first horizontal direction; characterized in that, Each of the spray vehicle modules comprises a spray vehicle assembly movable in a vertical direction, and a cleaning assembly located at one side of the spray vehicle assembly in a first horizontal direction, the cleaning assembly being movable relative to the spray vehicle assembly in the first horizontal direction; wherein The spray vehicle assembly comprises a spray head mounting component, a plurality of spray heads arranged at one end of the spray head mounting component facing the transport component, a spray vehicle guide component extending in the vertical direction, and a spray vehicle drive component driving the spray head mounting component to move in the vertical direction along the spray vehicle guide component; The cleaning assembly comprises a cleaning mounting component provided with a plurality of cleaning members, a cleaning guide component extending in the first horizontal direction, and a cleaning drive component driving the cleaning mounting component to move along the cleaning guide component, so that the plurality of cleaning members are switched between an initial state staggered with the plurality of spray heads and a cleaning state aligned with the plurality of spray heads in the vertical direction; The spray vehicle drive component drives the spray head mounting component to move along the spray vehicle guide component to approach the cleaning mounting component, and the cleaning drive component drives the cleaning mounting component to move along the cleaning guide component from the initial state to the cleaning state, so that the plurality of cleaning members are respectively opposite to and cleaned by the corresponding spray heads.

2. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein The plurality of spray heads on the spray head mounting component are arranged in an array, comprising a plurality of columns arranged in the first horizontal direction and each column arranged in a second horizontal direction perpendicular to the first horizontal direction; wherein The spray head mounting component comprises a spray head connecting seat, a spray head mounting plate, and a spray head adjusting assembly arranged between the spray head connecting seat and the spray head mounting plate, the spray head connecting seat being slidingly connected with the spray vehicle guide component and drivingly connected with the spray vehicle drive component; and The plurality of spray heads are arranged on the spray head mounting plate, and the spray head adjusting assembly can translate the spray head mounting plate relative to the spray head connecting seat in the first horizontal direction or the second horizontal direction, or / and rotate the spray head mounting plate about the vertical direction.

3. The printing device of claim 2, wherein, The spray head adjusting assembly comprises a pair of first mounting blocks arranged on both sides of the spray head mounting plate in the second horizontal direction, a pair of first connecting blocks arranged at corresponding positions of the first mounting blocks, and a first adjusting screw connecting the corresponding first mounting block and the first connecting block.

4. The printing device according to claim 2, wherein The spray head adjusting assembly comprises a main adjusting hole arranged at a middle portion of the spray head mounting plate on one side of the second horizontal direction, and four auxiliary adjusting holes arranged at four corner portions of the spray head mounting plate, wherein the main adjusting hole and the four auxiliary adjusting holes are connected with the spray head connecting seat through a pin column; and The spray head adjusting assembly comprises a main adjusting hole arranged at a middle portion of the spray head mounting plate on one side of the second horizontal direction, and four auxiliary adjusting holes arranged at four corner portions of the spray head mounting plate, wherein the main adjusting hole and the four auxiliary adjusting holes are connected with the spray head connecting seat through a pin column; and The spray head adjusting assembly further comprises a pair of second mounting blocks arranged on both sides of the spray head mounting plate in the second horizontal direction, a pair of second connecting blocks arranged on the spray head connecting seat at corresponding positions of the pair of second mounting blocks, and a second adjusting screw connecting the corresponding second mounting block and the second connecting block.

5. The printing device according to claim 2, wherein The spray vehicle driving component is a spray vehicle driving motor, an output end of the spray vehicle driving motor is provided with a transmission rod, and a free end of the transmission rod is in transmission connection with the spray head connecting seat. The spray vehicle guiding component comprises a plurality of spray vehicle guide rails arranged at intervals along the first horizontal direction, each of the spray vehicle guide rails extends along the vertical direction and is provided with a spray vehicle sliding block, the spray head connecting seat is fixed on the spray vehicle sliding block, and the spray vehicle driving motor drives the transmission rod to drive the spray head connecting seat to move along the spray vehicle guide rail.

6. The printing device of claim 5, wherein, A lower surface of the spray head connecting seat is provided with a first distance detection member at a position opposite to the cleaning assembly in the cleaning state; and An upper surface of the cleaning assembly is provided with a second distance detection member opposite to the spray head connecting seat in the cleaning state.

7. The printing device according to claim 2, wherein Each of the cleaning members comprises a moisturizing member and a wiper, a wiper lifting member, a wiper driving member, and a wiper guiding member, wherein the wiper is arranged on one side of the moisturizing member in the second horizontal direction, the wiper lifting member drives the wiper to move along the vertical direction, the wiper guiding member extends along the second horizontal direction, and the wiper driving member drives the wiper to move along the wiper guiding member. The cleaning driving component drives the cleaning mounting component to enter the cleaning state, each of the lower ends of the spray heads of the spray vehicle module first abuts against the corresponding moisturizing member and then moves along the vertical direction, and the wiper lifting member drives the wiper to move along the vertical direction towards the spray head and aligns the upper end of the wiper with the corresponding lower end of the spray head, and drives the wiper to move along the wiper guiding member along the second horizontal direction.

8. The printing device of claim 7, wherein, The moisturizing member comprises a moisturizing pad, a waste ink collector, and a waste ink pump connected with the moisturizing pad; and The wiper lifting member is a lifting cylinder, the wiper driving member is a wiper driving motor, and the wiper guiding member is a wiper guide rail extending along the second horizontal direction.

9. The printing device of claim 8, wherein, The cleaning mounting component comprises a cleaning mounting plate, the cleaning driving component is a cleaning driving motor, the cleaning guiding component comprises a plurality of cleaning guide rails, each of the cleaning guide rails extends along the first horizontal direction and is provided with a cleaning sliding block; wherein An output end of the cleaning driving motor is provided with a transmission belt, the cleaning mounting plate is in transmission connection with the cleaning sliding block through the transmission belt, the cleaning mounting plate is fixedly connected with the cleaning sliding block, and the cleaning driving motor drives the transmission belt to drive the cleaning mounting plate to move along the cleaning guide rail.

10. The printing device of claim 1, wherein, Each of the spray vehicle modules further comprises a frame, the spray vehicle guiding component and the spray vehicle driving component of the spray vehicle assembly, and the cleaning guiding component and the cleaning driving component of the cleaning assembly are arranged on the frame; and Two of the spray vehicle modules adjacent to each other are arranged symmetrically to each other in the first horizontal direction.

Images