A nozzle cleaning module and an inkjet printer

Abstract

The application provides a nozzle cleaning module and an inkjet printer, and relates to the technical field of printing. The nozzle cleaning module has a nozzle cleaning station, and the nozzle cleaning module comprises a negative pressure suction assembly. The negative pressure suction assembly has at least one negative pressure suction port. The negative pressure suction port is in a negative pressure state and forms a negative pressure area. The negative pressure area covers the nozzle cleaning station. The application can improve cleaning stability, is convenient to maintain, reduces the influence on printing efficiency, and reduces the possibility of nozzle blockage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of printing technology, and in particular to a printhead cleaning module and an inkjet printer. Background Technology

[0002] During prolonged use, ink residue, dust, or dried ink sludge can easily accumulate on the printhead surface of inkjet printers, affecting print quality. Currently, the most common cleaning method involves scraping the printhead surface with a scraper, mechanically removing ink residue. However, this cleaning method has the following technical problems: During long-term cleaning of the printhead, the wiper blade is prone to damage or deformation due to friction, leading to a decrease in cleaning effectiveness. Users need to frequently stop the machine for maintenance and replacement of the wiper blade, affecting printing efficiency and increasing maintenance costs. During the ink scraping process, ink residue will gradually form ink sludge on the wiper blade and mounting structure. This sludge may be pushed into the nozzle during subsequent cleaning, causing nozzle blockage. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a printhead cleaning module and inkjet printer that can improve cleaning stability, facilitate maintenance, reduce the impact on printing efficiency, and reduce the possibility of nozzle clogging.

[0004] This application provides the following technical solution: In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a nozzle cleaning module, the nozzle cleaning module having a nozzle cleaning station, the nozzle cleaning module comprising: A negative pressure suction assembly has at least one negative pressure suction port, which is in a negative pressure state and forms a negative pressure area that covers the nozzle cleaning station.

[0005] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the negative pressure suction assembly includes: The ink-absorbing component has a negative pressure suction port formed on the side facing the printhead, and the ink-absorbing component has an ink-absorbing chamber and an ink-collecting chamber. The ink-absorbing chamber and the ink-collecting chamber are connected. The ink-collecting chamber can contain the liquid in the ink-absorbing chamber. The negative pressure suction port is connected to the ink-absorbing chamber. A negative pressure extraction component is connected to the ink absorption component, and the negative pressure extraction component can draw negative pressure on the ink absorption chamber.

[0006] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the ink-absorbing component includes an ink-absorbing container having a negative pressure exhaust port connected to the negative pressure component; wherein the top of the ink-absorbing container is connected to the negative pressure exhaust port, the negative pressure exhaust port is disposed in the middle of the ink-absorbing container, such that the top of the ink-absorbing container forms the ink-absorbing cavity, and the bottom of the ink-absorbing container forms the ink-collecting cavity.

[0007] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the negative pressure suction port extends along the arrangement direction of the nozzles; Alternatively, there may be multiple negative pressure suction ports, which are spaced apart in the arrangement direction of the nozzles, and each negative pressure suction port can correspond to at least one nozzle.

[0008] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the ink-absorbing component further includes an ink-absorbing base, which is detachably disposed on the ink-absorbing container, the negative pressure suction port is disposed on the ink-absorbing base, and a buffer protective layer is provided on the side of the ink-absorbing base near the printhead.

[0009] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the ink-absorbing component further includes an ink-absorbing partition disposed within the ink-absorbing container for dividing the ink-absorbing chamber into multiple suction channels, all of which are connected to the negative pressure exhaust port. According to the distance between the negative pressure suction port and the negative pressure exhaust port, all the negative pressure suction ports are divided into multiple groups to form multiple suction groups, and each suction group is individually connected to a suction channel; in any adjacent suction group, the suction channel connected to the suction group farther away from the negative pressure exhaust port has a larger cross-section.

[0010] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the ink-absorbing container has a first extending direction and a second extending direction, all the suction groups are arranged sequentially in the first extending direction, the suction channels extend along the first extending direction, and the outlets of all the suction channels are arranged sequentially along the second extending direction, and the negative pressure exhaust port extends along the second extending direction. The suction channel has an inlet section and an outlet section, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet section is larger than that of the outlet section.

[0011] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the ink-absorbing element further includes: The suction tube is a telescopic tube or a flexible tube. One end of the suction tube is connected to the air inlet of the negative pressure suction component, and the other end of the suction tube is connected to the negative pressure suction outlet. The negative pressure suction assembly also includes a position adjustment component, which is connected to the ink suction component and is used to adjust the distance between the ink suction component and the printhead.

[0012] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the nozzle cleaning module further includes: An ink storage assembly includes an ink storage container having an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber, the bottoms of the inlet chamber and the outlet chamber being connected, the top of the inlet chamber being connected to a negative pressure extraction port, and the top of the outlet chamber being connected to an air inlet of a negative pressure extraction component.

[0013] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide an inkjet printer, which includes a printhead cleaning module as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0014] The embodiments of this application have the following advantages: This application provides a printhead cleaning module. A negative pressure suction component generates a negative pressure area through at least one negative pressure suction port, covering the printhead cleaning station. When the printhead moves to the cleaning station, the negative pressure area acts directly on the printhead surface, adsorbing attached ink residue, dust, or ink sludge to the suction port via airflow, avoiding physical contact. Unlike traditional wipers, this module removes contaminants through negative pressure adsorption, eliminating the need for mechanical friction and thus the risk of wiper wear or deformation. The design of the negative pressure area ensures that all parts of the printhead surface (including the area around the nozzles) are effectively covered, and contaminants are directly extracted during the adsorption process, preventing secondary accumulation or nozzle clogging.

[0015] Therefore, non-contact cleaning avoids wiper blade wear, significantly reducing maintenance frequency and replacement costs, and extending the lifespan of the cleaning module. Negative pressure adsorption thoroughly removes ink sludge around the nozzles, preventing contaminants from being pushed into the nozzles, reducing the risk of clogging at the source, and ensuring print quality. It eliminates mechanical wear on the wiper blade and its mounting structure, reducing downtime for maintenance and improving the continuous operation efficiency of printing equipment. It does not rely on consumables (such as wiper blades), reducing waste generation; and it is compatible with various printhead types, making it more versatile.

[0016] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, preferred embodiments are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a nozzle cleaning module provided in an embodiment of this application from one perspective. Figure 2 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a nozzle cleaning module provided in an embodiment of this application from another perspective; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of an ink-absorbing component provided in an embodiment of this application is shown from one perspective; Figure 4 This illustration shows a structural schematic diagram from another perspective of an ink-absorbing component provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 The diagram shows a structural schematic of an ink storage container provided by an embodiment of this application from one perspective.

[0019] Explanation of key component symbols: 100-Ink suction component; 110-Ink suction base; 111-Negative pressure suction port; 120-Ink suction container; 130-Suction tube; 140-Ink suction baffle; 150-Suction flow channel; 160-Negative pressure suction port; 200-Ink storage container; 210-Inlet cavity; 220-Outlet cavity; 300-Negative pressure suction component; 400-Adjusting component. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0021] It should be noted that when an element is said to be "fixed" to another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is said to be "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly" on another element, there is no intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.

[0022] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0023] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein in the template description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0025] In related technologies, inkjet printers tend to accumulate ink residue, dust, or dried ink sludge on the printhead surface during prolonged use, affecting print quality. Currently, the common cleaning method involves using a scraper to remove ink residue from the printhead. However, this method has the following technical problems: the scraper is prone to damage or deformation due to friction during long-term scraping, leading to decreased cleaning effectiveness. Users need to frequently stop the printer for maintenance and scraper replacement, affecting printing efficiency and increasing maintenance costs. During the scraping process, ink residue gradually forms ink sludge on the scraper and mounting structure, which may be pushed into the nozzles during subsequent cleaning, causing nozzle blockage.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1, Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application provides a nozzle cleaning module. The nozzle cleaning module has a nozzle cleaning station and includes a negative pressure suction component. The negative pressure suction component has at least one negative pressure suction port 111. The negative pressure suction port 111 is in a negative pressure state and forms a negative pressure area, which covers the nozzle cleaning station.

[0027] In these embodiments, this embodiment provides a printhead cleaning module. This printhead cleaning module is used to clean the printhead of an inkjet printer. Its core principle is to use negative pressure suction to replace the traditional mechanical scraper, thereby solving the problems of scraper wear, secondary contamination, and nozzle clogging.

[0028] The printhead cleaning module has a preset printhead cleaning station. When the inkjet printer executes the cleaning program, the printing mechanism moves the printhead to this printhead cleaning station, ready for the cleaning operation.

[0029] The nozzle cleaning module includes a negative pressure suction assembly. This negative pressure suction assembly is the core component for achieving non-contact cleaning. Specifically, the negative pressure suction assembly includes one or more negative pressure suction ports 111. In this embodiment, one negative pressure suction port 111 is provided, which is elongated and extends along the arrangement direction of the nozzle. Of course, in other embodiments, multiple negative pressure suction ports 111 can be used to ensure the uniformity of suction force. The negative pressure suction port 111 is connected to a negative pressure source (such as a vacuum pump, exhaust fan, etc.) through a pipe. When the negative pressure source is activated, a negative pressure state is formed inside the negative pressure suction port 111.

[0030] Crucially, the negative pressure suction port 111 creates a negative pressure zone at the printhead cleaning station. When the printhead moves to the cleaning station and docks with the cleaning module, its surface (particularly the nozzle array area) is located within this negative pressure zone. The coverage area of ​​this negative pressure zone is designed to completely cover the effective surface area of ​​the printhead at the cleaning station, ensuring that ink residue, dust, or dried ink sludge on the printhead surface is under negative pressure.

[0031] During operation, the negative pressure source continuously operates, maintaining a negative pressure state at the negative pressure suction port 111. Ink residues (such as droplets and dried ink) on the printhead surface are directly peeled off by the appropriately sized suction force generated in the negative pressure area and sucked into the waste liquid collection device at the rear end through the negative pressure suction port 111. The entire cleaning process requires no physical parts to contact the printhead surface, achieving non-contact cleaning.

[0032] It should be noted that the suction power can be adjusted using the negative pressure source. Furthermore, the suction power can be adjusted by changing the distance between the negative pressure suction port and the printhead, ensuring that waste ink is drawn down without affecting the ink inside the printhead nozzles, thus guaranteeing print quality and results.

[0033] Clearly, by setting up a negative pressure suction component and the negative pressure area it forms covering the printhead cleaning station, ink residue and dust on the printhead surface can be effectively suctioned and removed. By eliminating the traditional mechanical scraper, the wear, breakage, or deformation caused by friction is fundamentally avoided, significantly reducing maintenance frequency and replacement costs for users, and improving the operating efficiency of the printing equipment. More importantly, the cleaning process is contactless, eliminating the risk of ink sludge accumulated on the scraper being pushed into the nozzles and causing blockages, effectively protecting the printhead and improving print quality and equipment reliability.

[0034] For example, this embodiment refines the structure of the negative pressure suction port 111. The opening end face of the negative pressure suction port 111 is designed as an inclined surface or an arc-shaped surface, the purpose of which is to guide the airflow and ink droplets to enter the suction channel more smoothly, reduce flow resistance, and improve suction efficiency. In addition, a filter screen can be installed inside the negative pressure suction port 111 or in the rear pipe to intercept larger ink lumps or impurities, preventing them from entering the negative pressure source and causing damage, while also facilitating centralized cleaning.

[0035] In other words, the negative pressure suction assembly generates a negative pressure zone through at least one negative pressure suction port 111, covering the printhead cleaning station. When the printhead moves to the cleaning station, the negative pressure zone acts directly on the printhead surface, adsorbing attached ink residue, dust, or ink sludge to the suction port via airflow, avoiding physical contact. Unlike traditional wipers, this module removes contaminants through negative pressure adsorption, eliminating the need for mechanical friction and thus the risk of wiper wear or deformation. The design of the negative pressure zone ensures that all parts of the printhead surface (including the area around the nozzles) are effectively covered, and contaminants are directly extracted during the adsorption process, avoiding secondary accumulation or nozzle clogging.

[0036] Therefore, non-contact cleaning avoids wiper blade wear, significantly reducing maintenance frequency and replacement costs, and extending the lifespan of the cleaning module. Negative pressure adsorption thoroughly removes ink sludge around the nozzles, preventing contaminants from being pushed into the nozzles, reducing the risk of clogging at the source, and ensuring print quality. It eliminates mechanical wear on the wiper blade and its mounting structure, reducing downtime for maintenance and improving the continuous operation efficiency of printing equipment. It does not rely on consumables (such as wiper blades), reducing waste generation; and it is compatible with various printhead types, making it more versatile.

[0037] In some embodiments, the negative pressure suction assembly includes an ink-absorbing component 100 and a negative pressure suction component 300. The ink-absorbing component 100 has a negative pressure suction port 111 formed on the side facing the printhead, and the ink-absorbing component 100 has an ink-absorbing chamber and an ink-collecting chamber, which are connected. The ink-collecting chamber can contain the liquid in the ink-absorbing chamber, and the negative pressure suction port 111 is connected to the ink-absorbing chamber. The negative pressure suction component 300 is connected to the ink-absorbing component 100 and can apply negative pressure to the ink-absorbing chamber.

[0038] In these embodiments, the ink-absorbing component 100 is a part that directly faces the printhead. A negative pressure suction port 111 is formed on the surface of the ink-absorbing component 100 facing the printhead. In this embodiment, the ink-absorbing component 100 has an ink-absorbing chamber and an ink-collecting chamber inside. The ink-absorbing chamber is located at the upper part of the ink-absorbing component 100, and its top communicates with the negative pressure suction port 111, for receiving ink residue sucked down from the printhead surface. The ink-collecting chamber is located at the lower part or side of the ink-absorbing component 100, for containing liquid ink flowing in from the ink-absorbing chamber. The ink-absorbing chamber and the ink-collecting chamber are interconnected through an internal channel, allowing liquid sucked into the ink-absorbing chamber to flow smoothly into the ink-collecting chamber for temporary storage.

[0039] The negative pressure extraction component 300 is connected to the ink absorption component 100. In this embodiment, the negative pressure extraction component 300 is a miniature vacuum pump, and its air inlet is connected to the ink absorption chamber through a pipe. When cleaning is required, the negative pressure extraction component 300 is activated, continuously extracting air from the ink absorption chamber to lower the internal air pressure than atmospheric pressure, thereby creating a stable negative pressure environment within the ink absorption chamber. Since the negative pressure suction port 111 is connected to the ink absorption chamber, this negative pressure state is transmitted to the external space through the negative pressure suction port 111.

[0040] Crucially, when the printhead moves to the printhead cleaning station and aligns with the negative pressure suction port 111 of the ink suction unit 100, the surface of the printhead is located within the negative pressure area formed by the negative pressure suction port 111. This negative pressure area is designed to completely cover the effective surface area of ​​the printhead at the cleaning station. Under the strong suction generated by the negative pressure area, ink residue on the printhead surface is directly peeled off, passes through the negative pressure suction port 111, first enters the ink suction chamber, and then flows into the ink collection chamber for collection under gravity or airflow guidance. Finally, the waste ink in the ink collection chamber can be periodically discharged through a dedicated ink discharge channel (not shown in the figure) or cleaned by maintenance personnel.

[0041] Clearly, the ink suction chamber and ink collection chamber inside the ink suction unit 100 achieve efficient collection and temporary storage of waste ink, preventing waste ink from overflowing and contaminating the inside of the equipment. The negative pressure unit 300 (such as a vacuum pump) provides a stable and reliable negative pressure source, ensuring the stability of the cleaning effect.

[0042] In addition, a filter or baffle (not shown in the figure) can be installed at the connection channel between the ink suction chamber and the ink collection chamber or inside the ink collection chamber to intercept larger ink clumps or impurities, preventing them from clogging the subsequent ink discharge channel, and facilitating centralized cleaning. The negative pressure component 300 can also take other forms, such as using a Venturi tube device driven by the printer's electronic control system to generate negative pressure through high-speed airflow, thereby reducing costs and energy consumption.

[0043] In some embodiments, the ink-absorbing component 100 includes an ink-absorbing container 120, which has a negative pressure exhaust port 160 and is connected to a negative pressure suction component 300. The top of the ink-absorbing container 120 is connected to the negative pressure exhaust port 111, and the negative pressure exhaust port 160 is located in the middle of the ink-absorbing container 120, so that the top of the ink-absorbing container 120 forms an ink-absorbing cavity and the bottom of the ink-absorbing container 120 forms an ink-collecting cavity.

[0044] In these embodiments, the ink-absorbing component 100 is specifically an ink-absorbing container 120. The ink-absorbing container 120 has a hollow cavity structure. A negative pressure suction port 111 is formed in the central top region of the ink-absorbing container 120, and this negative pressure suction port 111 communicates with the internal space of the ink-absorbing container 120. Crucially, the top space of the ink-absorbing container 120 constitutes the aforementioned ink-absorbing cavity. When ink residue on the printhead surface is drawn in under negative pressure, it first enters this top-positioned ink-absorbing cavity.

[0045] A negative pressure exhaust port 160 is provided in the middle (preferably the upper or lower middle part of the side wall) of the ink absorption container 120. This negative pressure exhaust port 160 is connected to a negative pressure extraction device 300 (in this embodiment, a miniature vacuum pump) via a pipe. When the negative pressure extraction device 300 is working, it continuously extracts air from inside the ink absorption container 120 through the negative pressure exhaust port 160, thereby creating a negative pressure environment inside the ink absorption container 120. Since the negative pressure suction port 111 is connected to the inside of the ink absorption container 120, this negative pressure state is transmitted to the negative pressure suction port 111, forming a negative pressure area covering the printhead cleaning station.

[0046] The bottom space of the ink-absorbing container 120 constitutes the ink-collecting chamber. The volume of the ink-collecting chamber is significantly larger than that of the top ink-absorbing chamber. The ink-absorbing chamber and the ink-collecting chamber are not completely separated by a physical partition, but are naturally connected through a continuous space inside the ink-absorbing container 120. Liquid ink drawn into the top ink-absorbing chamber will naturally flow downwards under the influence of gravity and collect in the ink-collecting chamber at the bottom for storage. This "top-suction, bottom-collection" structural design utilizes gravity to ensure effective separation and centralized storage of waste ink, preventing waste ink from flowing back to the suction area. The bottom of the ink-collecting chamber may be provided with an ink drain port (not shown in the figure) for periodically draining accumulated waste ink.

[0047] During operation, the printhead moves to the printhead cleaning station, with its surface facing the negative pressure suction port 111. The negative pressure extraction device 300 is activated, drawing air from the ink absorption container 120 through the negative pressure exhaust port 160, creating negative pressure inside the container (especially in the top ink absorption chamber). Ink residue (droplets, ink sludge) on the printhead surface is drawn into the negative pressure suction port 111 by the suction force of the negative pressure area, entering the top ink absorption chamber, and then flowing into the bottom ink collection chamber for temporary storage under gravity.

[0048] In some embodiments, the negative pressure suction port 111 extends along the arrangement direction of the nozzles. Alternatively, there may be multiple negative pressure suction ports 111, which are spaced apart in the arrangement direction of the nozzles, and each negative pressure suction port 111 can correspond to at least one nozzle.

[0049] Regarding the arrangement of the negative pressure suction port 111 in these embodiments, the following two preferred schemes are provided in this embodiment to adapt to the cleaning needs of different nozzle structures: Option 1 (Linear Extension): The negative pressure suction port 111 extends along the nozzle arrangement direction of the printhead (usually perpendicular to the printing / scanning direction). This negative pressure suction port 111 is a long, narrow slit or orifice. This design is particularly suitable for single wide printheads with nozzles arranged in a linear array, or for combined printheads formed by closely arranged multiple printheads. The long, narrow negative pressure suction port 111 can cover the entire width of the nozzle array at once, forming a continuous negative pressure area, ensuring that residues across the entire width of the printhead are uniformly and efficiently suctioned away.

[0050] Option 2 (Multi-port Interval): In another optional implementation, there are multiple negative pressure suction ports 111. These ports are spaced apart along the nozzle arrangement direction of the printhead. Each negative pressure suction port 111 can be circular, square, or other polygonal. This arrangement is suitable for printheads with wide nozzle arrangements or those composed of multiple independent printhead modules. By rationally designing the position and spacing of the multiple negative pressure suction ports 111, it can be ensured that each negative pressure suction port 111 corresponds to at least one printhead (or one printhead module), thereby achieving precise and efficient cleaning of each printhead area. The design of multiple suction ports also increases system redundancy; even if one suction port is partially blocked, the other suction ports can still operate.

[0051] During operation, the printhead moves to the printhead cleaning station, with its surface facing the negative pressure suction port 111 (whether it's a long, narrow slit or multiple interspersed holes). The negative pressure extraction unit 300 is activated, drawing air from the ink absorption container 120 through the negative pressure exhaust port 160, creating negative pressure inside the container (especially in the top ink absorption chamber). Ink residue on the printhead surface is drawn into the negative pressure suction port 111 by the suction force of the negative pressure area, entering the top ink absorption chamber, and then flowing into the bottom ink collection chamber for temporary storage under gravity.

[0052] In some embodiments, the ink-absorbing component 100 further includes an ink-absorbing base 110, which is detachably disposed on the ink-absorbing container 120. A negative pressure suction port 111 is disposed on the ink-absorbing base 110, and a buffer protective layer is provided on the side of the ink-absorbing base 110 near the printhead.

[0053] In these embodiments, the ink-absorbing base 110 is a component directly facing the printhead and is detachably mounted on top of the ink-absorbing container 120 via a snap-fit ​​connection (e.g., snap-fit, screw, or magnetic connection). This detachable design is a key feature of this embodiment. A negative pressure suction port 111 is located on the ink-absorbing base 110. The central opening of the ink-absorbing base 110 is the negative pressure suction port 111, which communicates with the ink-absorbing chamber of the ink-absorbing container 120 below. The detachable ink-absorbing base 110 design allows users or maintenance personnel to easily remove it from the ink-absorbing container 120 for individual cleaning, maintenance, or replacement after prolonged use if scratches, dirt, or aging appear on the surface of the ink-absorbing base 110 due to accidental impact or long-term exposure. This eliminates the need to replace the entire ink-absorbing container 120 or the entire cleaning module, significantly reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

[0054] A buffer protective layer is provided on the surface of the ink-absorbing base 110 near the printhead. This buffer protective layer covers the entire front surface of the ink-absorbing base 110, including the edge area of ​​the negative pressure suction port 111. The buffer protective layer is made of a soft, elastic material, such as silicone, rubber, or soft polyurethane. Its main function is: When the printhead descends to the cleaning station, even if there is slight, unintended physical contact with the ink-absorbing base 110 (such as positioning error), the buffer protective layer can absorb the impact force, preventing the hard ink-absorbing base 110 or its edges from directly hitting the fragile printhead surface or nozzles, effectively protecting the printhead from physical damage. It also prevents minor scratches that may be caused to the printhead surface by hard materials.

[0055] In some embodiments, the ink-absorbing component 100 further includes an ink-absorbing partition 140 disposed within the ink-absorbing container 120, used to divide the ink-absorbing chamber into multiple suction channels 150, all of which are connected to a negative pressure exhaust port 160. Specifically, based on the distance between the negative pressure suction port 111 and the negative pressure exhaust port 160, all negative pressure suction ports 111 are divided into multiple groups, forming multiple suction groups, each suction group being individually connected to a suction channel 150; in any adjacent suction group, the suction group furthest from the negative pressure exhaust port 160 has a larger cross-section of the suction channel 150 it connects to.

[0056] In these embodiments, the ink-absorbing baffle 140 is a key optimized component. The ink-absorbing baffle 140 is disposed inside the ink-absorbing container 120, located in the ink-absorbing chamber area. Its main function is to divide the ink-absorbing chamber into multiple independent suction channels 150. In this embodiment, the ink-absorbing baffle 140 is one or more plate-like structures, fixed inside the ink-absorbing container 120 by welding, bonding, or integral molding. All suction channels 150 are connected to the negative pressure exhaust port 160 located in the middle of the ink-absorbing container 120. The design of the ink-absorbing baffle 140 divides the originally existing single, large ink-absorbing chamber into several parallel, oriented suction channels 150.

[0057] Based on the distance between the negative pressure suction ports 111 and the negative pressure exhaust ports 160, all the negative pressure suction ports 111 are divided into multiple groups, forming multiple suction groups. For example, in the "multi-port interval" scheme, several negative pressure suction ports 111 (such as 2, 3, 4, or 5) closer to the negative pressure exhaust ports 160 constitute the first suction group, and several (such as 2, 3, 4, or 5) farther away from the negative pressure exhaust ports 160 constitute the second suction group. Each suction group is connected to the negative pressure exhaust port 160 through its corresponding suction flow channel 150.

[0058] More importantly, to balance the suction force of each suction group and ensure a uniform cleaning effect throughout the cleaning area, this embodiment employs a design with a gradually changing cross-section of the flow channel: in any adjacent suction group, the suction channel 150 connected to the suction group farther from the negative pressure exhaust port 160 has a larger cross-section. Assuming suction group A is closer to the negative pressure exhaust port 160 and suction group B is farther away, the cross-sectional area (e.g., width or height) of the suction channel 150 connecting to suction group B is designed to be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the suction channel 150 connecting to suction group A. The principle behind this design is that the farther the suction group is from the negative pressure source, the greater the airflow resistance of its flow channel. By increasing the cross-section of the distal suction channel 150, the flow resistance of the channel can be effectively reduced, thereby compensating for the pressure loss caused by the increased distance. This allows the distal and proximal suction groups to obtain relatively balanced negative pressure during operation, ultimately achieving a consistent cleaning intensity across different areas of the nozzle surface (whether near or far from the negative pressure exhaust port 160), thus avoiding the problem of over-cleaning at the proximal end and insufficient cleaning at the distal end.

[0059] Clearly, by setting an ink-absorbing baffle 140 inside the ink-absorbing container 120, the ink-absorbing chamber is divided into multiple independent suction channels 150. The gradient design of "the suction channel 150 further away from the negative pressure exhaust port 160 has a larger cross-section" cleverly balances the negative pressure at different suction points, ensuring that all areas of the printhead surface (especially the far-end area) can obtain sufficient and uniform cleaning suction. This completely solves the problem of uneven cleaning effect caused by the difference in channel resistance, and significantly improves the consistency and reliability of the overall cleaning effect.

[0060] In some embodiments, the ink-absorbing container 120 has a first extending direction and a second extending direction. All the suction assemblies are arranged sequentially in the first extending direction. The suction channels 150 extend along the first extending direction, and the outlets of all the suction channels 150 are arranged sequentially along the second extending direction. The negative pressure exhaust port 160 extends along the second extending direction. The suction channels 150 have an inlet section and an outlet section, with the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet section being larger than that of the outlet section.

[0061] In these embodiments, regarding the spatial layout of the ink-absorbing container 120 and the design of the suction channel 150, two mutually perpendicular extending directions are defined: First extending direction: This direction is consistent with the nozzle arrangement direction of the printhead. Second extending direction: This direction is perpendicular to the first extending direction.

[0062] All suction groups (i.e., groups consisting of negative pressure suction ports 111) are arranged sequentially in the first extending direction. For example, in the "multi-port interleaved" scheme, multiple negative pressure suction ports 111 are arranged in rows along the first extending direction to form multiple suction groups.

[0063] The suction channel 150 extends along the first extension direction. The length direction of each suction channel 150 is parallel to the first extension direction, and one end (inlet end) is connected to one or a group of negative pressure suction ports 111 (i.e., a suction group) on the ink absorption base 110, while the other end (outlet end) faces the negative pressure exhaust port 160.

[0064] The outlets of all the suction channels 150 are arranged sequentially along the second extension direction. This means that the outlets of all the suction channels 150 do not converge at a single point, but are arranged in an orderly manner along the Y direction, which is perpendicular to the nozzle arrangement direction.

[0065] The negative pressure exhaust port 160 extends along the second extension direction. The negative pressure exhaust port 160 itself is an elongated opening or pipe interface extending along the second extension direction. It is connected to the outlet ends of all suction channels 150 arranged along the second extension direction, so that the airflow of all suction channels 150 can converge and be uniformly extracted at a linear interface along the second extension direction, resulting in a compact structure and smooth flow.

[0066] The suction channel 150 has an inlet section and an outlet section. The cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet section is larger than that of the outlet section. This "larger at the front and smaller at the back" channel cross-section design has the following advantages: A larger inlet section cross-sectional area can reduce the initial flow resistance when the airflow enters the suction channel 150 from the negative pressure suction port 111, so that the negative pressure can be transferred to the nozzle surface more quickly and effectively, thereby improving the initial suction efficiency.

[0067] According to fluid mechanics principles, at a constant flow rate, a smaller channel cross-sectional area leads to an increase in flow velocity. A smaller outlet section helps accelerate the airflow, creating a stronger "ejection" effect. This helps to more effectively push the liquid ink droplets entering the channel towards the ink collection chamber, preventing liquid from accumulating in the channel and causing blockage.

[0068] Combined with the previously described overall design of "the suction channel 150, which is farther away from the negative pressure exhaust port 160, has a larger cross-section", this local "large inlet and small outlet" design can further refine the pressure gradient within the channel, which helps to maintain a more stable suction force.

[0069] In some embodiments, the ink-absorbing component 100 further includes a suction tube 130, which is a telescopic tube or a flexible tube. One end of the suction tube 130 is connected to the air inlet of the negative pressure component 300, and the other end of the suction tube 130 is connected to the negative pressure exhaust port 160. The negative pressure suction assembly also includes a position adjustment component 400, which is connected to the ink suction component 100. The position adjustment component 400 is used to adjust the distance between the ink suction component 100 and the printhead.

[0070] In these embodiments, the ink-absorbing component 100 further includes a suction tube 130, which is a telescopic tube or a flexible tube. For example, the suction tube 130 is a corrugated tube. Alternatively, it can be a rubber flexible tube with an excess length.

[0071] One end of the suction tube 130 is connected to the air inlet of the negative pressure component 300, and the other end is connected to the negative pressure exhaust port 160 of the ink absorption container 120. Using a telescopic tube or flexible hose as the suction tube 130 has significant advantages: During actual installation, there may be slight positional deviations between the ink suction component 100 (fixed to the printer frame) and the vacuum suction component 300 (which may be installed in other locations on the chassis) or vibrations caused by equipment operation. Telescopic tubes or hoses have good flexibility, which can absorb these deviations and vibrations, avoiding stress concentration, damage to connectors, or air leaks caused by rigid connections.

[0072] The flexible connection makes the installation and disassembly of the ink-absorbing component 100 and the negative pressure component 300 easier, improving production efficiency and maintenance convenience.

[0073] The negative pressure suction assembly also includes a position adjustment component 400, which is connected to the ink suction component 100. For example, the position adjustment component 400 can take the form of an adjustment screw, an eccentric wheel, a slider guide rail with a fine-tuning bolt, etc. The main function of the position adjustment component 400 is to adjust the distance between the ink suction component 100 and the printhead. By operating the position adjustment component 400, the gap between the ink suction component 100 (especially its front buffer protective layer) and the printhead surface can be precisely set, ensuring that while performing non-contact cleaning, the negative pressure suction port 111 can form a sufficiently strong and uniform negative pressure area to achieve the best cleaning effect. At the same time, precise gap control also avoids the risk of accidental contact due to an excessively small gap.

[0074] Furthermore, during the cleaning process, the ink suction component 100 gradually approaches the printhead to gradually increase the suction power, eliminating the need for high-power operation, thus improving cleaning efficiency and reducing energy consumption.

[0075] For example, the adjusting member 400 is an electric actuator, the piston rod of which is connected to the ink-absorbing member 100 to push the ink-absorbing member 100 up and down to move closer to or away from the printhead. Of course, in other embodiments, the adjusting member 400 may also be a pneumatic cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder, etc.

[0076] In some embodiments, the printhead cleaning module further includes an ink storage assembly, which includes an ink storage container 200 having an inlet cavity 210 and an outlet cavity 220. The bottoms of the inlet cavity 210 and the outlet cavity 220 are connected, the top of the inlet cavity 210 is connected to the negative pressure exhaust port 160, and the top of the outlet cavity 220 is connected to the air inlet of the negative pressure extraction component 300.

[0077] In these embodiments, the printhead cleaning module further includes an ink storage assembly, which includes an ink storage container 200. The ink storage container 200 is a secondary container for temporarily storing waste ink discharged from the ink absorption container 120. Its capacity is typically larger than that of the ink collection chamber, serving as a buffer and extending the maintenance cycle.

[0078] The ink storage container 200 has an inlet cavity 210 and an outlet cavity 220, and the bottom of the inlet cavity 210 and the outlet cavity 220 are connected. This means that at the bottom of the ink storage container 200, the inlet cavity 210 and the outlet cavity 220 are connected, forming a U-shaped or communicating vessel structure.

[0079] The top of the inlet chamber 210 is connected to the negative pressure exhaust port 160 of the ink absorption container 120. This is typically achieved via a pipe or a direct interface. When the negative pressure extraction device 300 is operating, it first extracts the air from the top of the inlet chamber 210, thus creating a negative pressure within the inlet chamber 210. This negative pressure is transmitted to the outlet chamber 220 through the bottom connection port, and finally to the negative pressure extraction device 300 through the suction tube 130 connected to the top of the outlet chamber 220. The top of the outlet chamber 220 is connected to the air inlet of the negative pressure extraction device 300 (via the suction tube 130).

[0080] When waste ink in the ink intake container 120 flows into the ink collection chamber due to gravity and is sucked into the inlet chamber 210 of the ink storage container 200 through the negative pressure extraction port 160, the liquid waste ink will first accumulate at the bottom of the inlet chamber 210. Since the bottoms of the inlet chamber 210 and the outlet chamber 220 are connected, the liquid level will tend to be equal in both chambers (the principle of communicating vessels). As long as the liquid level of the waste ink does not exceed the height of the bottom connection port of the two chambers, the top space of the outlet chamber 220 will always remain a gas space. The negative pressure extraction component 300 extracts the gas at the top of the outlet chamber 220. Therefore, even if there is liquid in the inlet chamber 210, as long as the liquid level does not overflow the bottom connection port, the negative pressure extraction component 300 will not directly contact the liquid, thus effectively preventing liquid from entering the negative pressure extraction component 300 (such as a vacuum pump) and causing damage or performance degradation.

[0081] Furthermore, the waste ink in the gas subsequently settles into the ink storage container 200 under gravity, and can be cleaned periodically. For example, the waste ink in the ink storage container 200 can be periodically sucked away and discharged by using a negative pressure ink pump and waste ink tube. Also, large particles can be periodically opened and cleaned from the ink storage container 200.

[0082] In some embodiments, this application also provides an inkjet printer, which includes any of the printhead cleaning modules described in the above embodiments.

[0083] Since the printhead cleaning module has the aforementioned technical effects, inkjet printers that include this printhead cleaning module should have the same technical effects, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0084] In all examples shown and described herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations; therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0085] It should be noted that similar labels 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.

[0086] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A nozzle cleaning module, characterized in that, The nozzle cleaning module has a nozzle cleaning station, and the nozzle cleaning module includes: A negative pressure suction assembly has at least one negative pressure suction port, which is in a negative pressure state and forms a negative pressure area that covers the nozzle cleaning station.

2. The nozzle cleaning module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The negative pressure suction assembly includes: The ink-absorbing component has a negative pressure suction port formed on the side facing the printhead, and the ink-absorbing component has an ink-absorbing chamber and an ink-collecting chamber. The ink-absorbing chamber and the ink-collecting chamber are connected. The ink-collecting chamber can contain the liquid in the ink-absorbing chamber. The negative pressure suction port is connected to the ink-absorbing chamber. A negative pressure extraction component is connected to the ink absorption component, and the negative pressure extraction component can draw negative pressure on the ink absorption chamber.

3. The nozzle cleaning module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ink-absorbing component includes an ink-absorbing container, which has a negative pressure exhaust port connected to the negative pressure component; wherein, the top of the ink-absorbing container is connected to the negative pressure exhaust port, and the negative pressure exhaust port is located in the middle of the ink-absorbing container, such that the top of the ink-absorbing container forms the ink-absorbing cavity, and the bottom of the ink-absorbing container forms the ink-collecting cavity.

4. The nozzle cleaning module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The negative pressure suction port extends along the arrangement direction of the nozzles; Alternatively, there may be multiple negative pressure suction ports, which are spaced apart in the arrangement direction of the nozzles, and each negative pressure suction port can correspond to at least one nozzle.

5. The nozzle cleaning module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The ink-absorbing component also includes an ink-absorbing base, which is detachably disposed on the ink-absorbing container. The negative pressure suction port is disposed on the ink-absorbing base, and a buffer protective layer is provided on the side of the ink-absorbing base near the printhead.

6. The nozzle cleaning module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The ink-absorbing component also includes an ink-absorbing partition, which is disposed inside the ink-absorbing container to divide the ink-absorbing chamber into multiple suction channels, and all of the suction channels are connected to the negative pressure exhaust port. According to the distance between the negative pressure suction port and the negative pressure exhaust port, all the negative pressure suction ports are divided into multiple groups to form multiple suction groups, and each suction group is individually connected to a suction channel; in any adjacent suction group, the suction channel connected to the suction group farther away from the negative pressure exhaust port has a larger cross-section.

7. The nozzle cleaning module according to claim 6, characterized in that, The ink-absorbing container has a first extending direction and a second extending direction. All the suction groups are arranged sequentially in the first extending direction. The suction channels extend along the first extending direction, and the outlets of all the suction channels are arranged sequentially along the second extending direction. The negative pressure exhaust port extends along the second extending direction. The suction channel has an inlet section and an outlet section, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet section is larger than that of the outlet section.

8. The nozzle cleaning module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The ink-absorbing component also includes: The suction tube is a telescopic tube or a flexible tube. One end of the suction tube is connected to the air inlet of the negative pressure suction component, and the other end of the suction tube is connected to the negative pressure suction outlet. The negative pressure suction assembly also includes a position adjustment component, which is connected to the ink suction component and is used to adjust the distance between the ink suction component and the printhead.

9. The nozzle cleaning module according to claim 7, characterized in that, The nozzle cleaning module also includes: An ink storage assembly includes an ink storage container having an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber, the bottoms of the inlet chamber and the outlet chamber being connected, the top of the inlet chamber being connected to a negative pressure extraction port, and the top of the outlet chamber being connected to an air inlet of a negative pressure extraction component.

10. An inkjet printer, characterized in that, The inkjet printer includes a printhead cleaning module as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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