Automatic circulating cleaning device for spray head and nozzle of UV ink-jet printer

Abstract

The utility model discloses an automatic circulating cleaning device for a spray head and a nozzle of a UV (ultraviolet) ink-jet printer, which comprises a material box, a sub-circulating conveying mechanism and a filtering mechanism, and an adjusting control part is arranged between the circulating conveying mechanism and the UV ink-jet printer nozzle, wherein the adjusting control part is used for controlling the cleaning agent to clean the interior of the nozzle and discharging the cleaning agent into the material box through the ink inlet in any side when being opened, and controlling the cleaning agent to clean the nozzle and discharging the cleaning agent into the material box through the nozzle when being closed. The utility model not only solves the practical problem of high production cost caused by discarding of the UV ink-jet printer nozzle which cannot be cleaned by ink dripping in the prior art, but also solves the problems of non-ideal nozzle cleaning effect, low cleaning efficiency and easy nozzle damage caused by manual cleaning. According to the utility model, the practical difficulty in the jet printing work of a printing enterprise is solved, the production cost is saved, and the production benefit is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of inkjet printing equipment, and in particular to an automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of society and the economy, and the continuous improvement of people's living standards, consumers are increasingly demanding higher product quality, safety, and traceability. Inkjet printers play a crucial role in product identification and traceability. They can provide clear, accurate, and tamper-proof markings for various commodities, enabling consumers to easily obtain relevant product information, thus becoming an important piece of equipment in modern industrial production.

[0003] Currently, the basic working principle of an inkjet printer is as follows: An ink system (ink tank, filter, and pump, etc.) provides a stable and continuous ink supply to the printhead. Under the pressure of the ink supply pump, the ink is ejected through the nozzle, forming a continuous ink stream. The control system precisely controls the printhead to eject ink in the form of tiny droplets onto the product surface, based on the preset coding content and the product's moving speed, thus forming the desired mark. Existing inkjet printers use inks categorized by type: water-based inks, oil-based inks, UV-curable inks, and solvent-based inks. Different inks have different applications and advantages. Because UV-curable inks (UV inks) have the characteristics of instant curing, fast drying speed, high resolution, and good adhesion, they are suitable for high-requirement coding applications, such as QR codes on cigarette packaging.

[0004] During the UV inkjet printing process, the nozzles on the printhead have extremely small orifices, sometimes even smaller than the diameter of a human hair. If impurities appear in the ink or the ink dries out, it can completely clog the printhead and nozzles, leading to quality problems such as white lines and ink bleeding in the printed QR codes. Figure 1 As shown, this causes the inability to print correctly. According to technical analysis, the main reasons are as follows: Figure 2 As shown:

[0005] (1) Ink drying and clogging of printhead: If the ambient temperature is too high and the machine is left idle for a long time without printhead protection measures, the ink in the printhead will dry naturally. Ink drip cleaning is ineffective and the printhead is easily scrapped.

[0006] (2) UV curing clogging of printheads: When printheads are exposed to ultraviolet light for a long time, UV ink will solidify and condense, thereby clogging printheads and nozzles.

[0007] (3) Dirt clogging of nozzles: A large amount of dust and paper fibers in the air can easily adhere to the area around the nozzle with the airflow, causing the nozzle to become clogged.

[0008] For printhead and nozzle clogging issues, ink dripping cleaning can generally resolve the problem. However, if cleaning is ineffective, the printhead needs to be returned to the manufacturer for cleaning. Manufacturer cleaning is expensive and time-consuming, impacting machine production. Historically, the performance of cleaned printheads has been unsatisfactory, and some printheads cannot be cleaned and must be replaced, thus increasing production costs for companies. Currently, the patented technologies for cleaning inkjet printer printheads and nozzles are as follows:

[0009] CN202823958U discloses an automatic inkjet printer nozzle cleaning device, including a nozzle cleaning cover (1) for accommodating the inkjet printer nozzle, an air supply device (3) connected to the nozzle cleaning cover (1) via an air pipe (8), a liquid delivery device (2) connected to the nozzle cleaning cover (1) via a disinfectant inlet pipe (61), a cleaning agent storage device (7) connected to the liquid delivery device (2) via a disinfectant outlet pipe (62), and a control device (4) for controlling the operation of the air supply device (3) and the liquid delivery device (2). The nozzle cleaning cover (1) is provided with a liquid nozzle (12) for rinsing the inkjet printer nozzle and a gas nozzle (11) for drying the inkjet printer nozzle. The gas nozzle (11) is connected to the air pipe (8), and the liquid nozzle (12) is connected to the disinfectant inlet pipe (61).

[0010] CN213472562U discloses a coding machine that facilitates cleaning of the printhead and nozzle, including a telescopic sleeve. A telescopic rod is movably mounted on the upper end of the telescopic sleeve. A fixing ring is fixedly mounted at the upper end of the telescopic sleeve at the connection between the telescopic sleeve and the telescopic rod. An adjusting seat is fixedly mounted on the upper end of the adjusting seat. A first fixing knob is fixedly mounted on the upper end of the adjusting seat. An mounting plate is movably mounted on the front end of the adjusting seat. A coding machine body is fixedly mounted on the upper end of the mounting plate. A second fixing knob is fixedly mounted on the lower end of the mounting plate. The coding machine body and the mounting plate are fixedly connected through the second fixing knob. A coding head is fixedly mounted on the front end of the coding machine body. A feed pipe is fixedly connected to the rear end of the coding machine body.

[0011] As can be seen from the aforementioned patented technologies, although existing technologies have achieved automated cleaning of inkjet printer printheads and nozzles, solving the problems of printhead damage and low cleaning efficiency compared to manual cleaning, some shortcomings still exist. First, current automatic cleaning devices for inkjet printer printheads and nozzles can only be used to clean relatively simple ordinary inkjet printer printheads. Because the external and internal structures of UV inkjet printer printheads differ significantly from those of ordinary inkjet printer printheads, such as… Figure 3As shown, existing automatic cleaning devices cannot clean UV inkjet printer printheads; secondly, since the UV inkjet printer printhead contains circuit boards and phase detection electrodes for accurately detecting the charging status of ink droplet breakpoints, the printhead must be disassembled for cleaning to avoid damage to these electronic components during cleaning; thirdly, in the existing technology, for UV inkjet printer printheads that cannot be cleaned by dripping ink, manual cleaning can only be used, that is, using a syringe to inject cleaning aids such as UV printhead moisturizing liquid, UV cleaning liquid, and CG nano UV repair liquid into the ink inlet and outlet ports on both sides of the printhead in sequence, and repeating this operation multiple times. Obviously, due to the limited pressure of the syringe and the amount of aids used, a good cleaning effect cannot be achieved. It is not only time-consuming and laborious, but also has low cleaning effect and efficiency, and the printhead is easily damaged during the operation.

[0012] Therefore, how to automatically and continuously clean the inside of a clogged printhead and its nozzles without disassembling the printhead, thereby fundamentally eliminating the clogging problem, reducing production costs, and improving printing quality, has become a pressing issue for engineers in the field of inkjet printing equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0013] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, the technical problem to be solved by this utility model is to provide an automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles that is simple in structure, low in cost, does not require disassembly of the printhead, and can realize automatic circulating cleaning of the inside of the clogged printhead and nozzles, thereby fundamentally eliminating the clogging problem.

[0014] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows: an automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles, including a material box with an inner cavity for storing cleaning agent, a worktable for fixing the UV inkjet printer printhead on the material box, a circulating conveying mechanism for cleaning the inside of the printhead and nozzles, which is connected to the ink inlets on both sides of the UV inkjet printer printhead and the material box respectively, and a filtering mechanism for pre-removing impurities from the cleaning agent that returns to the material box after being continuously sprayed out of the printhead or nozzle during the cleaning process and is then conveyed back to the inside of the printhead, and a regulating control component is provided between the circulating conveying mechanism and the UV inkjet printer printhead, which controls the cleaning agent to clean the inside of the printhead and discharge the cleaning agent into the material box through the ink inlet on both sides when the device is turned on, and controls the cleaning agent to clean the nozzle and discharge the cleaning agent into the material box through the nozzle when the device is turned off.

[0015] The aforementioned automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles includes a suction pipe connected to a material box and a power pump connected to the suction pipe for driving the cleaning agent in the material box to be conveyed into the UV inkjet printer printhead. An inlet pipe is connected to the output end of the power pump and is connected to one of the ink inlets on either side of the UV inkjet printer printhead. The filter mechanism is located on the inlet pipe or the suction pipe.

[0016] The aforementioned automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles includes a filtration mechanism comprising a primary filter and a secondary filter connected in series. The inlet end of the primary filter is connected to the output end of the power pump via an inlet pipe, and the outlet end of the secondary filter is connected to the ink inlet on either side of the UV inkjet printer printhead via an inlet pipe.

[0017] The aforementioned automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles includes a filtration mechanism comprising a primary filter and a secondary filter connected in series. The inlet end of the primary filter is connected to a suction pipe, and the outlet end of the secondary filter is connected to a power pump via a suction pipe. The output end of the power pump is connected to the ink inlet on either side of the UV inkjet printer printhead via an inlet pipe.

[0018] The aforementioned automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles includes an adjustment control component comprising an adjustment pipe with one end connected to another ink inlet on the side of the liquid inlet pipe of the UV inkjet printer printhead and the other end connected to the inner cavity of the material box, and a circulation pipe for connecting the two ink inlets on the other side of the UV inkjet printer printhead to achieve repeated internal cleaning. A rotary valve for opening and closing the adjustment pipe is provided on the adjustment pipe.

[0019] The aforementioned automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles includes a drain port on the worktable that extends downward into the inner cavity. When the rotary valve is opened, the cleaning agent after cleaning is controlled to flow from the UV inkjet printer printhead into the material box. The other end of the regulating pipeline is connected to the drain port, and the rotary valve is located on the drain port.

[0020] The aforementioned automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles includes a material box comprising a box body, an opening at the top of the box body for adding and replacing cleaning agent and observing the degree of contamination of the cleaning agent, and a cover plate covering the opening to form the workbench. A slot for fixing the UV inkjet printer printhead is provided on the cover plate, and the nozzle of the UV inkjet printer printhead extends downward along the slot into the inner cavity of the material box.

[0021] The aforementioned automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles includes a fixed cover plate connected to the material box by screws, and a movable cover plate connected to the material box for easy addition and replacement of cleaning agent and observation of the degree of contamination of cleaning agent impurities. The slot is provided on the fixed cover plate.

[0022] In the aforementioned automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles, the side wall of the material box near the UV inkjet printer printhead is configured as an inclined plate with its bottom sloping towards the inner cavity of the material box. This inclined plate and the side wall on the opposite side form an inner cavity with a funnel-shaped longitudinal section. A fixed tube is provided on the side wall on the opposite side, extending from the outside of the material box to the bottom of the inner cavity and fixed to the side wall. The liquid suction tube is connected to the fixed tube.

[0023] The aforementioned automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles includes a control box on one side of the material box for accommodating the circulating conveying mechanism and the filtering mechanism. Inside the control box is a power module electrically connected to the circulating conveying mechanism, and a plug extending out of the control box for providing power, connected to the power module. The control box includes a box body with an opening on one side and a cover adapted to the opening. A heat dissipation groove is provided on the upper part of the cover, and a radiator for automatically controlling the temperature of the circulating conveying mechanism is provided on the lower part. The radiator is connected to the power module via a temperature sensor.

[0024] The advantages of this utility model of an automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles are:

[0025] 1. By setting up a material box, workbench, and power pump, the nozzles to be cleaned are fixed on the workbench. At the same time, the cleaning agent in the material box is circulated and cleaned repeatedly, which solves the problems of nozzle damage, low cleaning efficiency, and poor cleaning effect caused by traditional handheld cleaning nozzles.

[0026] 2. By setting up primary and secondary filters, the cleaning agent that returns to the cartridge after being continuously sprayed out of the printhead or nozzle during the cleaning process is pre-filtered to remove impurities before being delivered back into the printhead. This avoids the problem of impurities, dust, and dried waste ink particles in the cleaning agent clogging the printhead again, and further improves the cleaning effect.

[0027] 3. By utilizing suction pipes, inlet pipes, regulating pipes, and circulation pipes to control the reciprocating circulation of cleaning agent between the "material box - power pump - primary filter - secondary filter - UV inkjet printer printhead," continuous and automatic cleaning is achieved, greatly improving cleaning efficiency. Through the setting of regulating control components, the opening and closing of the rotary valve is coordinated with the drain interface. By flexibly switching the circulation path and discharge position of the cleaning agent, independent and efficient cleaning of the inside of the UV inkjet printer printhead and nozzles is achieved.

[0028] 4. This invention achieves cyclic cleaning of the printhead, solving the problem of ineffective ink dripping cleaning and printhead damage in inkjet printers. It employs a dual filtration system to effectively clean clogged parts of the printhead, and the cyclic cleaning system effectively saves cleaning agent. The flow rate and pressure are controlled by an electronic control system, which can improve the cleaning effect for severely clogged printheads. This invention has a simple structure, low cost, broad application prospects, and is suitable for industrial-scale promotion and application. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a defective QR code printed after the printhead and nozzles become clogged in actual production.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the problem of nozzle and spray head clogging in actual production.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the printhead structure of a UV inkjet printer in the prior art;

[0032] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of this utility model;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a magnified cross-sectional view of the material box.

[0034] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of the control box;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the control box.

[0036] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention after the UV inkjet printer printhead is installed;

[0037] Figure 9 This is an enlarged view of the structure of the UV inkjet printer printhead connected to this utility model via an inlet pipe, a regulating pipe, and a circulation pipe.

[0038] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the UV inkjet printer printhead and this utility model via an inlet pipe, a regulating pipe, and a circulation pipe.

[0039] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the working process inside the cleaning nozzle of this utility model;

[0040] Figure 12 A schematic diagram illustrating the working process of the cleaning nozzle of this utility model;

[0041] Figure 13 This utility model provides a pipeline connection diagram for cleaning a UV inkjet printer printhead with a set of ink inlet holes.

[0042] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the pipeline connection structure for cleaning multiple UV inkjet printer printheads simultaneously according to this utility model.

[0043] Figure 15 Comparison of UV inkjet printer printhead test results before and after cleaning;

[0044] Figure 16 The images show a comparison of the QR code printing effects before and after cleaning of the UV inkjet printer printhead. Detailed Implementation

[0045] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0046] In this utility model, unless otherwise stated, directional terms such as "upper" and "lower" generally refer to the upper and lower positions of the device in its actual use or working state, specifically the directions shown in the accompanying drawings; while "inner" and "outer" refer to the outline of the device. Furthermore, in the description of this application, the term "comprising" means "including but not limited to". The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used merely as illustrative purposes and do not impose numerical requirements or establish an order. The term "multiple" means "two or more".

[0047] Example 1:

[0048] like Figure 4 As shown, an automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles includes a material box 3 with an inner cavity 2 for storing cleaning agent 1, and a worktable 5 for fixing the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 on the material box 3. The material box 3 includes a box body 6, an opening 7 at the top of the box body 6 for adding and replacing cleaning agent and observing the degree of contamination of the cleaning agent, and a cover plate 8 covering the opening 7 to form the worktable 5. A slot 9 is provided on the cover plate 8 for fixing the UV inkjet printer printhead 4, and the nozzle 25 of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 extends downward along the slot 9 into the inner cavity 2 of the material box 3.

[0049] The cover plate 8 includes a fixed cover plate 10 screwed to the material box 3 and a movable cover plate 11 movably connected to the material box 3. A slot 9 is formed on the fixed cover plate 10. Designing the cover plate 8 with a fixed cover plate 10 and a movable cover plate 11 allows the movable cover plate 11 to be manually placed over the opening 7 of the material box 3 when the device is not in use, preventing dust from entering the material box 3. It can be easily removed during use, making retrieval and placement more convenient. Simultaneously, the flexible design of the movable cover plate 11 facilitates the addition and replacement of cleaning agent and the observation of the degree of impurity contamination in the cleaning agent.

[0050] like Figure 5As shown, during cleaning, the cleaning agent sprayed downwards from the UV inkjet printer nozzle 4 into the material box 3 is under high pressure and continuously discharged. Therefore, to prevent the high-pressure sprayed cleaning agent from splashing upon contact with the cleaning agent surface upon entering the material box 3, the side wall 12 of the material box 3 near the UV inkjet printer nozzle 4 is designed as an inclined plate with its bottom sloping towards the inner cavity 2 of the material box 3. This inclined plate and the opposite side wall 13 form an inner cavity 2 with a funnel-shaped longitudinal section. A fixing tube 14 is provided on the opposite side wall 13, extending from the material box 3 towards the bottom of the inner cavity 2 and fixed to the side wall 13. Because the bottom space of the inclined material box 3 of this invention is small, it can greatly reduce the amount of cleaning agent added while meeting the requirements for the cleaning agent level and achieving circulation cleaning at the lowest possible level, thereby reducing costs.

[0051] like Figure 6-7 As shown, a control box 17 for accommodating the circulating conveying mechanism 15 and the filtering mechanism 16 is provided on one side of the material box 3. Inside the control box 17 is a power module 18 electrically connected to the circulating conveying mechanism 15, and a plug 19 extending out of the control box 17 for providing power, connected to the power module 18. The control box 17 includes a box body 20 with an opening on one side, and a cover 21 adapted to the opening. A heat dissipation groove 22 is provided on the upper part of the cover 21, and a radiator 23 for controlling the temperature of the power pump 27 inside the box body 20 is provided on the lower part. The radiator 23 is fixed to the inner surface of the cover 21 with screws. To achieve automatic temperature control of the power pump 27 and ensure its normal operation, the radiator 23 is signal-connected to the power module via a temperature sensor. When the temperature of the power pump 27 exceeds the set temperature (usually set to 40℃), the temperature sensor automatically sends a signal to control the radiator 23 to turn on, blowing air to cool the power pump 27.

[0052] like Figure 8-10 As shown, this embodiment of the invention takes a UV inkjet printer printhead with a two-set ink inlet structure as an example. The ink inlets include a first ink inlet 24-1 on the left, a second ink inlet 24-2, a third ink inlet 24-3 on the right, and a fourth ink inlet 24-4. It includes a circulating conveying mechanism 15 connected to the ink inlets on both sides of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 and the ink cartridge 3, for conveying the cleaning agent 1 in the ink cartridge 3 through the ink inlet on either side to the printhead for cleaning the inside of the printhead and the nozzle 25. The circulating conveying mechanism 15 includes a suction pipe 26 connected to the ink cartridge 3, one end of which is connected to a fixed pipe 14, and a power pump 27 connected to the other end of the suction pipe 26 for driving the cleaning agent 1 in the ink cartridge 3 to be conveyed into the UV inkjet printer printhead 4. An inlet pipe 28 is connected to the output end of the power pump 27, and the inlet pipe 28 is connected to the first ink inlet 24-1 on the left side of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4.

[0053] To prevent impurities, dust, and dried waste ink particles from re-entering the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 during the cyclic cleaning process and causing secondary blockage, this invention also includes a filter mechanism 16 for pre-filtering the cleaning agent 1 before it is re-delivered to the printhead 4 after being continuously sprayed from the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 or nozzle 25 and returned to the material box 3. In this embodiment, the filter mechanism 16 is located on the liquid inlet pipe 28. Figure 7 As shown, the filtration mechanism 16 includes a primary filter 29 and a secondary filter 30 connected in series. The inlet end of the primary filter 29 is connected to the output end of the power pump 27 through an inlet pipe 28, and the outlet end of the secondary filter 30 is connected to the first ink inlet 24-1 on the left side of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 through an inlet pipe 28.

[0054] like Figure 4 , 8 As shown in Figures 9 and 10, an adjustment control component 31 is provided between the circulating conveying mechanism 15 and the UV inkjet printer printhead 4. When the device is turned on, the cleaning agent 1 is used to clean the inside of the printhead and discharge the cleaning agent 1 into the material box 3 through the ink inlet on either side. When the device is turned off, the cleaning agent 1 is used to clean the nozzle 25 and discharge the cleaning agent 1 into the material box 3 through the nozzle 25. The regulating control component 31 includes a regulating pipe 32, one end of which is connected to the second ink inlet 24-2 on the left side of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4, and the other end of which is connected to the inner cavity 2 of the material box 3. It also includes a circulation pipe 33 for connecting the third ink inlet 24-3 and the fourth ink inlet 24-4 on the right side of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4, thus connecting the first ink inlet 24-1, the second ink inlet 24-2, the third ink inlet 24-3, the fourth ink inlet 24-4 on the right side, and the UV inkjet printer printhead 4, allowing the cleaning agent to circulate repeatedly within the pipe. A rotary valve 34 is provided on the regulating pipe 32 for opening and closing it. A drain port 35, extending downwards into the inner cavity 2, is provided on the worktable 5. When the rotary valve 34 is opened, it controls the cleaning agent to flow from the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 into the material box 3 after cleaning. The other end of the regulating pipe 32 is connected to this drain port 35, and the rotary valve 34 is located on the drain port 35.

[0055] The specific structure, model, and requirements of the main components in this automatic circulating cleaning device are as follows:

[0056] 1. Regarding power pump 27 and its pipelines:

[0057] Gear pumps are chosen for their simple and compact structure, small size, low price, strong self-priming force, wide speed range, ability to withstand impact loads, convenient maintenance, and reliable operation. Therefore, this utility model's power pump 27 is a miniature gear pump, with the specific specifications and model as follows:

[0058] Pump type Motor type Voltage flow Miniature gear pump DC motor 6V 2.3A

[0059] The power pump 27 is mounted on the inner wall of the housing 20 via a customized rubber mounting bracket, which serves to fix the pump in place and absorb vibrations. Components such as the suction pipe 26, inlet pipe 28, regulating pipe 32, and circulation pipe 33 are made of 3mm*5mm silicone tubing, ensuring stable liquid transfer while being cost-effective, resistant to aging, and easy to assemble and connect due to their flexible structure. Since nozzle clogging varies, this invention can incorporate a control system to regulate the flow rate and pressure of the micro gear pump for severely clogged nozzles. By increasing the flow rate per unit time, the infusion pressure is increased, enhancing the cleaning of severely clogged nozzles and spray nozzles.

[0060] 2. Regarding primary filter 29 and secondary filter 30:

[0061] Disc filters, due to their larger filtration area, smaller fiber gaps in the filter media, and higher transport efficiency, achieve highly efficient and thorough filtration. They also possess strong corrosion resistance and durability, are inexpensive, and reduce energy consumption and maintenance costs. Column filters offer good corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and pressure resistance, high flow rate per unit area, excellent filtration performance, and are also inexpensive. Furthermore, both disc and column filters are disposable consumables, making replacement convenient. Therefore, this utility model selects a disc filter for the primary filter 29 and a column filter for the secondary filter 30, connected sequentially via silicone tubing. Specific parameter standards are as follows:

[0062] Filter type Filtration accuracy (μm) Suitable pipe diameter (mm) Disc filter 10 3*5，4*6，6*8 Column filter 5 3*5，4*6，6*8

[0063] 3. Regarding power module 18, temperature sensor, heat sink 23, and material box 3:

[0064] Because switching power supply modules adjust the output voltage through switching actions, they have high efficiency, typically 60-70%. Since there is no transformer or heatsink in the middle of the switching power supply structure, its size is very small. The internal components of a switching power supply are all electronic components, resulting in high efficiency and low heat generation. Compared with linear power supply modules, it has significant advantages such as high efficiency, low cost, small size, and low heat generation. Therefore, the power supply module 18 of this utility model selects a switching power supply module (AC-DC power supply module).

[0065] Regarding the selection of the temperature sensor, the temperature control switch is chosen because it is reliable, simple in structure, and easy to install. Its controller, which uses a bimetallic strip as the temperature sensing element, has a sensitive response and a long service life. It is small in size, has an insulated casing, and is widely used for overheat and overcurrent protection in motors, transformers, and general electrical equipment. Therefore, it is the temperature sensor for this invention.

[0066] Because the internal DC motor of the micro gear pump generates heat during operation, continuous overheating can lead to pump failure. Therefore, to extend the service life of the micro gear pump and prevent overheating from causing the device to shut down and become unmanageable, a radiator 23 is used to cool the micro gear pump. Cooling fans are inexpensive, easy to install, small in size, safe, reliable, and maintenance-free. Therefore, based on the basic characteristics of the entire device, such as voltage, current, rated power, and speed, a DC cooling fan with a voltage <36V and a current of 0.20-0.75A is selected as the radiator 23 for this invention.

[0067] Material box 3 needs to store cleaning agents, and the cleaning agents contain impurities and waste ink after cleaning. Stainless steel has high strength, good wear resistance and corrosion resistance, and is easy to process and economical. Therefore, in order to extend the service life of material box 3 and avoid rust and corrosion problems, material box 3 is made of stainless steel.

[0068] The working process of this utility model is as follows;

[0069] 1. Clean the UV inkjet printer printhead (internal):

[0070] like Figure 11 As shown, the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 is installed on the workbench 5, and the liquid inlet pipe 28 is connected to the first ink inlet 24-1 on the left side of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4. Figure 11 Due to the angle, the first ink inlet 24-1 (not shown) is connected to the second ink inlet 24-2 on the left side of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4, and the other end is connected to the drain port 35. Finally, the circulation pipe 33 is used to drain the third ink inlet 24-3 on the right side of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4. Figure 11 Due to the angle, the third ink inlet 24-3 (not shown) and the fourth ink inlet 24-4 are connected, and the rotary valve 34 is opened. At this time, the power pump 27 is started, and the cleaning agent 1 in the material box 3 is connected to the inlet pipe 28 via the suction pipe 26 → power pump 27 → primary filter 29 → secondary filter 30. It then enters the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 through the first ink inlet 24-1 (each ink inlet is interconnected with the inside of the printhead). Since the diameter of the nozzles 25 at the bottom of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 is very small, the cleaning agent 1 needs a large pressure to be sprayed out of the nozzles 25. With the rotary valve 34 open, the cleaning agent 1 will be discharged first from the second ink inlet 24-2 on the left side of the UV inkjet printer printhead 4. It is then discharged into the material box 3 through the regulating pipe 32 and the drain interface 35. With the continuous operation of the power pump 27, the cleaning agent 1 is circulated and rinsed for a certain period of time through the above conveying process, thus cleaning the inside of the UV inkjet printer printhead.

[0071] 2. Clean the UV inkjet printer nozzles:

[0072] like Figure 12 As shown, the connection process of each part is the same as the process of cleaning the UV inkjet printer printhead (internal), so it will not be described again. After the connection is completed, close the rotary valve 34. At this time, start the power pump 27. The cleaning agent 1 in the material box 3 goes through the suction pipe 26 → power pump 27 → primary filter 29 → secondary filter 30 to the inlet pipe 28, and enters the UV inkjet printer printhead 4 through the first ink inlet 24-1. Since the rotary valve 34 is closed, the cleaning agent 1 cannot be discharged into the material box 3 through the second ink inlet 24-2 → regulating pipe 32 → drain interface 35. It can only be sprayed out from the nozzle 25. During the continuous high-pressure spraying process, the UV inkjet printer nozzle is cleaned.

[0073] Example 2:

[0074] The parts identical to those in Embodiment 1 will not be repeated here. The difference lies in that, in this embodiment, the filtration mechanism is located before the power pump. Specifically, the filtration mechanism includes a primary filter and a secondary filter connected in series. The inlet end of the primary filter is connected to a suction pipe, and the outlet end of the secondary filter is connected to the power pump via a suction pipe. The output end of the power pump is connected to the ink inlet on either side of the UV inkjet printer printhead via an inlet pipe. This configuration reduces or even eliminates the entry of various impurities washed off with the cleaning agent into the power pump 27, effectively reducing damage to the power pump 27 and extending the service life of the entire device.

[0075] Example 3:

[0076] Currently, UV inkjet printer printheads of different brands and models may differ in design and construction. For example, the UV inkjet printer printhead described in Example 1 has two sets of ink inlet holes, meaning there are two ink inlet holes on each side of the printhead. Figure 3As shown, its main purpose is to achieve higher printing efficiency and better printing results. By using two sets of ink inlets, the printhead can simultaneously spray ink from two directions, thereby significantly improving printing speed and efficiency. This design allows the printhead to complete more printing tasks in a shorter time, which is particularly effective in handling large amounts of data or high-speed production lines, thus improving printing efficiency. For example, the QR code on a high-requirement cigarette packaging box as described in the background art of this utility model. At the same time, the design of two sets of ink inlets ensures uniform ink supply and reduces the risk of ink clogging. When one set of ink inlets malfunctions, the other set can still work normally, thus ensuring the continuity and stability of the printing process, thereby improving printing quality. Furthermore, the design of two sets of ink inlets also makes maintenance and cleaning more convenient. When one set of ink inlets needs maintenance, the other set can continue to work, reducing downtime and improving production efficiency. By adjusting the flow rate and pressure of the two sets of ink inlets, the printing effect can be better controlled. For example, for applications requiring high-precision printing, a finer printing effect can be achieved by precisely controlling the flow rate of the two sets of ink inlets.

[0077] Of course, there are many types and models of UV inkjet printer printheads for different applications and product requirements. For example, when printing speed and efficiency are not critical, most inkjet printers use a single ink inlet design, meaning there is only one ink inlet on each side of the printhead. Figure 13 As shown.

[0078] When cleaning the printhead 4 of this model of UV inkjet printer, the liquid inlet pipe 28 can be connected to one ink inlet on either side, and one end of the adjusting pipe 32 can be connected to one ink inlet on the other side. Other structures, connection methods, and the cleaning process are the same as in Example 1. This allows for the cleaning of the printhead of this model of UV inkjet printer, thus expanding the application range of this device.

[0079] Example 4:

[0080] like Figure 14 As shown, in actual production, a printing workshop may have multiple printing machines, each with multiple printheads (including spare printheads). Often, different printing machines experience simultaneous clogging. When multiple UV inkjet printer printheads 4 are clogged and require cleaning, this invention can connect multiple printheads in series for simultaneous cleaning to improve cleaning efficiency. To meet the need for simultaneous cleaning of multiple printheads, components such as the ink box and worktable can be widened according to the printhead size specifications, allowing multiple UV inkjet printer printheads 4 to be installed on the worktable for simultaneous cleaning. Of course, the set of UV inkjet printer printheads with ink inlet types shown in Example 3 can also be cleaned in series simultaneously.

[0081] Tests and print quality comparisons before and after UV inkjet printer printhead cleaning:

[0082] like Figure 15 As shown in the image, a test was conducted on the UV inkjet printer printhead before cleaning. Numerous ink breaks were clearly visible in the test image. After cleaning, the printhead sprayed ink normally, and the ink breaks disappeared. Figure 16 As shown in the comparison of QR codes printed before and after UV inkjet printer head cleaning, it is clear that the quality problems such as white lines and ink bleeding in the QR codes printed by the cleaned UV inkjet printer head have all disappeared, and the QR code printing quality meets the standard requirements!

[0083] The total cost of this automatic circulating cleaning device is as follows:

[0084]

[0085] Regarding the actual economic benefits generated by this utility model:

[0086] In 2024, the automatic circulating cleaning device of this utility model cleaned three Spandex JY920R printheads that the manufacturer could not clean and that were deemed unusable. All of these printheads are now installed on the machines and are in normal use. Furthermore, this device can generate continuous revenue throughout the entire lifespan of the UV inkjet printer printheads. Details are as follows:

[0087] Investment during the event (in RMB) 1520 yuan Costs saved during the event (in yuan) 3 nozzles * 34452 yuan = 103356 yuan Total revenue (RMB) 103356 - 1520 = 101836 yuan

[0088] In summary, this invention solves both the practical problem of high production costs caused by the need to discard UV inkjet printer printheads that cannot be cleaned by dripping ink, and the problem of unsatisfactory cleaning results, low cleaning efficiency, and easy damage to the printhead caused by manual cleaning. This invention addresses the practical difficulties faced by printing companies in their inkjet printing operations, saves production costs, and improves production efficiency.

[0089] Of course, the above description is not intended to limit the present utility model, nor is the present utility model limited to the examples given above. Any changes, modifications, additions or substitutions made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present utility model should be protected by the present utility model.

Claims

1. An automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles, characterized in that: The device includes a cartridge with an inner cavity for storing cleaning agent, a worktable for fixing the printhead of a UV inkjet printer on the cartridge, a circulation conveying mechanism for cleaning the inside of the printhead and nozzles, connected to the ink inlets on both sides of the UV inkjet printer printhead and the cartridge, and a filtering mechanism for pre-removing impurities from the cleaning agent that returns to the cartridge after being continuously sprayed from the printhead or nozzles during the cleaning process and is then conveyed back into the printhead. An adjustment control component is provided between the circulation conveying mechanism and the UV inkjet printer printhead, which controls the cleaning agent to clean the inside of the printhead and discharge it into the cartridge through the ink inlet on either side when the device is open, and controls the cleaning agent to clean the nozzles and discharge it into the cartridge when the device is closed.

2. The automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles according to claim 1, characterized in that: The circulating conveying mechanism includes a suction pipe connected to the material box, and a power pump connected to the suction pipe for driving the cleaning agent in the material box to be conveyed into the printhead of the UV inkjet printer. An inlet pipe is connected to the output end of the power pump. The inlet pipe is connected to one of the ink inlets on either side of the printhead of the UV inkjet printer. The filtering mechanism is provided on the inlet pipe or the suction pipe.

3. The automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles according to claim 2, characterized in that: The filtration mechanism includes a primary filter and a secondary filter connected in series. The inlet end of the primary filter is connected to the output end of the power pump through an inlet pipe, and the outlet end of the secondary filter is connected to the ink inlet on either side of the printhead of the UV inkjet printer through an inlet pipe.

4. The automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles according to claim 2, characterized in that: The filtration mechanism includes a primary filter and a secondary filter connected in series. The inlet end of the primary filter is connected to a suction pipe, and the outlet end of the secondary filter is connected to a power pump through a suction pipe. The output end of the power pump is connected to the ink inlet on either side of the printhead of the UV inkjet printer through an inlet pipe.

5. The automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustment and control component includes an adjustment pipeline with one end connected to another ink inlet on the side of the liquid inlet pipe of the UV inkjet printer printhead and the other end connected to the inner cavity of the material box, as well as a circulation pipe for connecting the two ink inlets on the other side of the UV inkjet printer printhead to achieve repeated internal cleaning. A rotary valve for opening and closing the adjustment pipeline is provided on the adjustment pipeline.

6. The automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles according to claim 5, characterized in that: The workbench is provided with a drain port that extends downward into the inner cavity. When the rotary valve is opened, the cleaning agent after cleaning is controlled to flow from the UV inkjet printer nozzle into the material box. The other end of the regulating pipeline is connected to the drain port, and the rotary valve is located on the drain port.

7. The automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles according to claim 1, characterized in that: The material box includes a box body, an opening at the top of the box body for adding and replacing cleaning agent and observing the degree of contamination of the cleaning agent, and a cover plate covering the opening to form the workbench. A slot for fixing the UV inkjet printer nozzle is provided on the cover plate, and the nozzle of the UV inkjet printer nozzle extends downward along the slot into the inner cavity of the material box.

8. The automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles according to claim 7, characterized in that: The cover plate includes a fixed cover plate that is screwed to the material box, and a movable cover plate that is movably connected to the material box for adding or replacing cleaning agent and observing the degree of contamination of the cleaning agent. The slot is formed on the fixed cover plate.

9. The automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles according to claim 2, characterized in that: The side wall of the material box near the UV inkjet printer nozzle is configured as an inclined plate with the bottom sloping towards the inner cavity of the material box. The inclined plate and the side wall on the opposite side form an inner cavity with a funnel-shaped longitudinal section. A fixed tube is provided on the side wall on the opposite side, extending from the outside of the material box to the bottom of the inner cavity and fixed to the side wall. The liquid suction tube is connected to the fixed tube.

10. The automatic circulating cleaning device for UV inkjet printer printheads and nozzles according to claim 1, characterized in that: A control box for accommodating the circulating conveying mechanism and the filtering mechanism is provided on one side of the material box. A power module electrically connected to the circulating conveying mechanism is provided inside the control box, as well as a plug for providing power that extends out of the control box and is connected to the power module. The control box includes a box body with an opening on one side and a cover adapted to the opening on the side. A heat dissipation groove is provided on the upper part of the cover, and a heat sink for automatically controlling the temperature of the circulating conveying mechanism is provided on the lower part. The heat sink is connected to the power module via a temperature sensor.

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