Printer and printer control method

Abstract

To provide: a printer which can improve maintainability without increasing a size thereof; and a printer control method.SOLUTION: A printer comprises: an attachment part which can attach / detach a medium support part having a support face for supporting a medium; a head which can eject a liquid onto the medium supported by the support face; a first movement part which moves the head in a first direction parallel to the support face; a second movement part which moves the head in a second direction parallel to the support face and crossing the first direction; a control part which controls the first movement part and the second movement part; an input part to which instructions can be inputted by a user; and a notification part which notifies of information. The head can move to an opposite area opposite to the support face. When a movement instruction is inputted to the input part, the notification part performs notification that prompts the user to detach the medium support part from the attachment part, and the control part causes the head to move from a standby position which is not included in the opposite area to a cleaning position a part or the whole of which is included in the opposite area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing device and a method for controlling a printing device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a printing device that prints on a medium by moving a head along a first direction. The head is movable along the first direction between a printing area and a non-printing area. A maintenance area is allocated to the non-printing area. In such a printing device, a mirror is provided to allow the nozzle surface of the head to be viewed from outside when the head is placed in the maintenance area. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-162174 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in such a printing device, it is necessary to provide a separate area for arranging the mirror. This may lead to an increase in the size of the printing device. Therefore, it is desirable to improve the ease of maintenance without increasing the size of the printing device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A printing device that solves the above problem comprises an attachment unit to which a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium can be attached and detached, a head capable of ejecting liquid onto a medium supported on the support surface, a first movement unit that moves the head in a first direction parallel to the support surface, a second movement unit that moves the head in a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects the first direction, a control unit that controls the first movement unit and the second movement unit, an input unit to which a user can input instructions, and an alarm unit that notifies information, wherein the head is movable to an opposing area that faces the support surface, and when a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the alarm unit issues a notification urging the user to remove the medium support unit from the attachment unit, and the control unit moves the head from a standby position that is not included in the opposing area to a cleaning position that is partly or entirely included in the opposing area.

[0006] A printing device that solves the above problem comprises a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium, a position adjustment unit that adjusts the position of the medium support unit vertically, a head capable of ejecting liquid onto a medium supported on the support surface, a first movement unit that moves the head in a first direction parallel to the support surface, a second movement unit that moves the head in a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects the first direction, a control unit that controls the first movement unit and the second movement unit, and an input unit into which a user can input instructions, wherein the head is movable to an opposing area that faces the support surface, and when a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit moves the head from a standby position that is not included in the opposing area to a cleaning position that is partly or entirely included in the opposing area, with the medium support unit lowered below its highest position.

[0007] A control method of a printing device that solves the above problem includes, when a user inputs a movement instruction, an alarm unit of the printing device issues an alarm urging the user to remove a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium, and a control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of ejecting liquid onto the medium supported by the medium support unit in a first direction parallel to the support surface and a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects with the first direction, thereby moving the head from a waiting position that is not included in an opposing area facing the support surface to a cleaning position that is partly or entirely included in the opposing area.

[0008] A control method of a printing device that solves the above-mentioned problem involves, when a movement command is input by a user, a control unit of the printing device lowering a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium below a highest position, and moving a head capable of ejecting liquid onto the medium in a first direction parallel to the support surface and a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects with the first direction, thereby moving the head from a waiting position that is not included in an opposing area facing the support surface to a cleaning position that is partly or entirely included in the opposing area. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a printing device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the printing device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the movement area of ​​the head. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view showing the printing device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a front view showing the printing device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a printing device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the printing apparatus. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the cleaning control process. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the cleaning control process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] [First embodiment] An embodiment of a printing device and a control method for a printing device will be described below. In the following description, a direction intersecting with the vertical direction Z is referred to as a width direction X, and a direction intersecting with the vertical direction Z and the width direction X is referred to as a front-rear direction Y. One of the width directions X is referred to as a first width direction X1, and the other of the width directions X is referred to as a second width direction X2. One of the front-rear directions Y is referred to as a front Y1, and the other of the front-rear directions Y is referred to as a rear Y2. The upper side of the vertical direction Z is referred to as an upper side Z1, and the lower side of the vertical direction Z is referred to as a lower side Z2. The width direction X corresponds to an example of a first direction. The first width direction X1 corresponds to one direction in the first direction. The front-rear direction Y corresponds to an example of a second direction.

[0011] <Printing device 10> 1, the printing device 10 is configured to print on a medium. The printing device 10 may be configured to print on the medium by ejecting a liquid. The printing device 10 may be configured to print on a flexible medium, such as a T-shirt. The printing device 10 may be configured so that a user places the medium therein.

[0012] <Case 11> The printing device 10 has a housing 11. The housing 11 may be rectangular. The housing 11 has a front surface 12 facing forward Y1. The housing 11 has a back surface 13 facing rearward Y2. The housing 11 has a left side surface 14 facing in the second width direction X2. The housing 11 has a right side surface 15 facing in the first width direction X1. The housing 11 has a top surface 16 facing upward Z1. The housing 11 has a bottom surface 17 facing downward Z2. The front surface 12 corresponds to an example of a side surface.

[0013] The housing 11 is configured to house various members included in the printing device 10. In particular, the housing 11 houses a medium support unit 28, a liquid supply unit 31, a printing unit 32, and a maintenance unit 40, which will be described later.

[0014] The housing 11 includes a housing frame 18. The housing frame 18 constitutes the exterior of the housing 11. The housing frame 18 includes an opening 19. That is, the housing 11 includes an opening 19. The opening 19 is configured to expose various members housed in the housing 11. In particular, the opening 19 is configured to expose a support surface 29 of a medium support portion 28, which will be described later.

[0015] The opening 19 includes a first opening 20 and a second opening 21. The first opening 20 is provided in the top surface 16. The second opening 21 is provided in the front surface 12. The opening 19 opens a part of the top surface 16 and a part of the front surface 12. The first opening 20 and the second opening 21 are provided so as to be continuous with each other. In other words, the opening 19 is provided across the top surface 16 and the front surface 12.

[0016] The housing 11 includes an opening / closing cover 22. The opening / closing cover 22 is capable of opening and closing the opening 19. The opening / closing cover 22 may be made of sheet metal to ensure rigidity. The opening / closing cover 22 includes a first opening / closing cover 23. The first opening / closing cover 23 is in the shape of a flat plate. The first opening / closing cover 23 is capable of opening and closing the first opening 20.

[0017] The opening / closing cover 22 includes a second opening / closing cover 24. The second opening / closing cover 24 is flat. The second opening / closing cover 24 is capable of opening and closing the second opening 21. The second opening / closing cover 24 includes a grip portion 25. The grip portion 25 can be gripped by a user.

[0018] The printing device 10 includes a display unit 26 and an operation unit 27. The display unit 26 is configured to display information. The display unit 26 is an example of an alarm unit. The alarm unit functions to transmit information and encourage the user to take action. The operation unit 27 is configured to be operable by the user. The operation unit 27 corresponds to an example of an input unit into which the user can input instructions. The display unit 26 and the operation unit 27 may be configured as one unit, such as a touch panel, or may be configured separately. The display unit 26 and the operation unit 27 are provided on the top surface 16, but are not limited to this.

[0019] <Media support part 28> The printing apparatus 10 includes a medium support section 28. The medium support section 28 is configured to support a medium. The medium support section 28 includes a support surface 29. The support surface 29 is a surface facing upward Z1. The support surface 29 is configured to support a medium. In particular, the support surface 29 is a surface that supports at least the printing area of ​​the medium.

[0020] The medium support unit 28 is supported by a position adjustment unit 59, which will be described later. The medium support unit 28 is configured not to move in a horizontal direction parallel to the support surface 29 while supported by the position adjustment unit 59. In other words, the support surface 29 is configured not to move in the horizontal direction. The medium support unit 28 is capable of adjusting the position of the support surface 29 with respect to the vertical direction Z by the position adjustment unit 59.

[0021] The printing device 10 includes a medium storage unit 30. The medium storage unit 30 is housed in the housing 11. The medium storage unit 30 is provided at least in the width direction X of the support surface 29, and may also be provided in the front-rear direction Y. When a partial area of ​​the medium is supported on the support surface 29, the medium storage unit 30 is capable of storing a partial area of ​​the medium that is not supported by the support surface 29.

[0022] <Liquid supply section 31> The printing device 10 includes a liquid supply unit 31. The liquid supply unit 31 is provided further in the second width direction X2 than the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30. The liquid supply unit 31 may be provided along an inner wall surface facing the left side surface 14. The liquid supply unit 31 is configured to store liquid and supply the stored liquid to a head 33, which will be described later. The liquid supply unit 31 may be of a detachable cartridge type, or of a tank type that is refillable with liquid. The liquid supply unit 31 may have a flat top surface.

[0023] <Print section 32> The printing device 10 includes a printing unit 32. The printing unit 32 is configured to print on a medium. In particular, the printing unit 32 is configured to print on a medium supported on the support surface 29.

[0024] The printing unit 32 includes a head 33. That is, the printing device 10 includes the head 33. The head 33 is capable of ejecting liquid onto a medium supported on the support surface 29. The head 33 includes a plurality of nozzles (not shown) capable of ejecting liquid. The head 33 includes a nozzle surface (not shown) in which the plurality of nozzles open. The nozzle surface is a surface facing downward Z2.

[0025] The printing unit 32 includes a carriage 34. The carriage 34 is configured to support the head 33. The head 33 is configured as a serial type. In the serial type, the head 33 moves in the width direction X while printing.

[0026] The printing unit 32 includes a moving unit 35. The moving unit 35 is configured to move the carriage 34. That is, the moving unit 35 is configured to move the head 33. The moving unit 35 is configured to move the head 33 in the horizontal direction. More specifically, the moving unit 35 is configured to move the head 33 in the width direction X and the front-rear direction Y.

[0027] The moving unit 35 includes a first moving unit 36. That is, the printing device 10 includes the first moving unit 36. The first moving unit 36 ​​is configured to move the carriage 34 in the width direction X. That is, the first moving unit 36 ​​is configured to move the head 33 in the width direction X parallel to the support surface 29.

[0028] The first moving portion 36 includes a first guide portion 37. The first guide portion 37 is configured to extend in the width direction X across the support surface 29. The first guide portion 37 guides the carriage 34 so as to be movable along the width direction X.

[0029] The moving unit 35 includes a second moving unit 38. The printing device 10 includes the second moving unit 38. The second moving unit 38 is configured to support the first moving unit 36. The second moving unit 38 is configured to move the first moving unit 36 ​​in the front-rear direction Y. In other words, the second moving unit 38 is configured to move the head 33 in the front-rear direction Y parallel to the support surface 29.

[0030] The second moving section 38 includes a pair of second guide sections 39. The pair of second guide sections 39 are provided in the first width direction X1 and the second width direction X2 of the medium support section 28, sandwiching the medium support section 28 therebetween. Each of the pair of second guide sections 39 is configured to extend in the front-rear direction Y.

[0031] In this way, the moving unit 35 has the head 33 mounted thereon, and is capable of moving in the horizontal direction across the medium support unit 28. The moving unit 35 is configured in a gate shape so as to straddle the medium support unit 28 when viewed from the front.

[0032] <Maintenance Department 40> The printing device 10 includes a maintenance unit 40. The maintenance unit 40 is located further in the first width direction X1 than the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30. The maintenance unit 40 is configured to extend in the front-rear direction Y. The maintenance unit 40 is disposed in a position that does not overlap with the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30 in the vertical direction Z. The maintenance unit 40 is disposed in a position that can face the head 33 facing upward Z1. The maintenance unit 40 is configured to perform maintenance on the head 33.

[0033] The maintenance unit 40 includes a flushing unit 41. The flushing unit 41 is configured to receive the liquid discharged from the head 33. The flushing unit 41 is configured to be movable in the front-rear direction Y together with the head 33, but may be configured to extend along the front-rear direction Y. For convenience, the flushing unit 41 is shown in FIG. 1 not facing the head 33, but may be linked to the movement of the head 33 in the front-rear direction Y so as to face the head 33. The flushing unit 41 may be moved in the front-rear direction Y by the same power source as the second moving unit 38, or may be moved in the front-rear direction Y by a power source different from that of the second moving unit 38. The flushing unit 41 is disposed at a position not overlapping the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30 in the vertical direction Z.

[0034] The maintenance unit 40 includes a wiping unit 42. The wiping unit 42 is capable of wiping the nozzle surface. The wiping unit 42 is disposed at a position that does not overlap with the medium support unit 28 and the medium accommodation unit 30 in the vertical direction Z.

[0035] The maintenance unit 40 includes a suction unit 43. The suction unit 43 is configured to suck liquid from the head 33. The suction unit 43 may include a suction pump that sucks liquid from the head 33. The suction unit 43 is disposed at a position that does not overlap with the medium support unit 28 and the medium accommodation unit 30 in the vertical direction Z.

[0036] The maintenance unit 40 may also include a waste liquid tank (not shown). The waste liquid tank is configured to store liquid received by the flushing unit 41. The waste liquid tank is configured to store liquid sucked by the suction unit 43. The waste liquid tank is disposed at a position that does not overlap with the medium support unit 28 and the medium storage unit 30 in the vertical direction Z.

[0037] <Maintenance cover 44> 2, the printing device 10 includes a maintenance cover 44. The maintenance cover 44 is a cover that can cover the upper Z1 side of the maintenance unit 40.

[0038] The printing device 10 includes a cover accommodating section 45. The cover accommodating section 45 is provided between the medium support section 28 and the medium accommodating section 30 and the maintenance section 40 in the width direction X. The cover accommodating section 45 is capable of accommodating the maintenance cover 44.

[0039] In this way, the maintenance cover 44 is movable between the open position shown in Fig. 1 and the closed position shown in Fig. 2. The open position is a position where the maintenance cover 44 opens the maintenance unit 40. More specifically, the open position is a position where the maintenance cover 44 does not cover the upper Z1 side of the maintenance unit 40, and the maintenance cover 44 is accommodated in the cover accommodating portion 45. The closed position is a position where the maintenance cover 44 closes the maintenance unit 40. More specifically, the closed position is a position where the maintenance cover 44 covers the upper Z1 side of the maintenance unit 40.

[0040] <Control unit 50> The printing device 10 includes a control unit 50. The control unit 50 controls the printing device 10. In particular, the control unit 50 controls at least the first moving unit 36 ​​and the second moving unit 38. The control unit 50 controls various operations performed by the printing device 10. The control unit 50 may be configured as a circuit including: α: one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program; β: one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute at least a part of the various processes; or γ: a combination thereof. The hardware circuit is, for example, an application specific integrated circuit. The processor includes a CPU and a memory such as a RAM and a ROM, and the memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute a process. The memory, i.e., the computer-readable medium, includes any readable medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0041] 3, the printing device 10 includes an interference detection unit 58. The interference detection unit 58 detects the presence or absence of an interfering object that may interfere with the head 33, at a position Z2 slightly below the nozzle surface of the head 33. In other words, the interference detection unit 58 is configured to detect interference with the head 33. The interference detection unit 58 may include a light projecting unit 58A and a light receiving unit 58B.

[0042] The interference detection unit 58 is supported by the second moving unit 38. As a result, the interference detection unit 58 moves in conjunction with the second moving unit 38. In other words, the interference detection unit 58 moves in conjunction with the movement of the head 33 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0043] The interference detection unit 58 is located forward Y1 from the head 33. Therefore, the interference detection unit 58 moves forward Y1 together with the head 33 by the second moving unit 38, and can detect interference with the head 33 before an interfering object actually interferes with the head 33.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 4, the printing device 10 includes a position adjustment unit 59. The position adjustment unit 59 supports the medium support unit 28. The position adjustment unit 59 is configured to adjust the position of the medium support unit 28 with respect to the vertical direction Z. That is, the position adjustment unit 59 can adjust the position of the support surface 29 with respect to the vertical direction Z. As a result, the position adjustment unit 59 is configured to adjust the distance between the head 33 and the support surface 29 in the vertical direction Z. In addition, the medium support unit 28 is detachable from the position adjustment unit 59. That is, the medium support unit 28 is detachable from the housing 11. The position adjustment unit 59 corresponds to an example of an attachment unit.

[0045] <Movement area 70 of head 33> Here, the movement area 70 of the head 33 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3, the head 33 is capable of moving in a predetermined movement area 70. The movement area 70 includes a facing area 71. That is, the head 33 is capable of moving to the facing area 71. The facing area 71 is an area where the nozzle surface of the head 33 faces the support surface 29. The facing area 71 includes a printing area where printing is performed on a medium.

[0046] The movement region 70 includes a standby position 72. The standby position 72 is a position where the head 33 is positioned when printing is not being performed. The standby position 72 is an area where the nozzle surface of the head 33 does not face the support surface 29. In other words, the standby position 72 is not included in the facing area 71. The standby position 72 may be located on the first width direction X1 side, rear Y2 side, of the movement region 70. The standby position 72 is provided further in the first width direction X1 than the medium support section 28.

[0047] The movement area 70 includes a maintenance area 73. The maintenance area 73 is located above Z1 the maintenance unit 40. The maintenance area 73 is an area where the nozzle surface of the head 33 does not face the support surface 29. In other words, the maintenance area 73 is not included in the facing area 71. The maintenance area 73 is an area where the nozzle surface of the head 33 faces the maintenance unit 40. Note that, for convenience, the flushing unit 41 is not shown in FIG. 3.

[0048] The movement area 70 includes a foremost position 74. The foremost position 74 is included in the maintenance area 73. In other words, the foremost position 74 is not included in the facing area 71. The foremost position 74 is located on the first width direction X1 side, and on the forward Y1 side, of the movement area 70. The foremost position 74 is located forward Y1 from the standby position 72.

[0049] The movement area 70 includes a cleaning position 75. A portion of the head 33 disposed at the cleaning position 75 is included in the facing area 71 when viewed from above Z1. In other words, a portion of the cleaning position 75 is included in the facing area 71 when viewed from above Z1. When viewed from above Z1, the cleaning position 75 is located at the front Y1 of the facing area 71. When viewed from above Z1, the cleaning position 75 is located at the rear Y2 of the second opening 21.

[0050] The cleaning position 75 is a position to which the head 33 moves when controlled in the cleaning mode. The cleaning mode is a mode for cleaning the head 33. In the cleaning mode, the head 33 may be cleaned, for example, by a user wiping it with a cloth.

[0051] When a movement command is input to the operation unit 27 to control the head 33 to the cleaning mode, the head 33 moves from the standby position 72 to the forward direction Y1. As a result, the head 33 moves from the standby position 72 to the forward most position 74 via the maintenance area 73 along the front-rear direction Y. In this case, when the head 33 moves from the standby position 72 to the forward most position 74, the interference detection unit 58 can detect interference with the head 33. After reaching the forward most position 74, the head 33 moves from the forward most position 74 to the cleaning position 75 along the width direction X. The forward most position 74 can also be said to be an intermediate position between the standby position 72 and the cleaning position 75.

[0052] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the cleaning mode is a mode in which the position adjustment unit 59 is displaced from the highest position shown in Figure 4 to the lowest position shown in Figure 5 before the head 33 is moved from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75. The highest position is the position at which the medium support unit 28 attached to the position adjustment unit 59 is at its highest. The highest position is the position when a medium is placed on the medium support unit 28. The lowest position is the position at which the medium support unit 28 attached to the position adjustment unit 59 is at its lowest. The cleaning mode is also a mode in which it is recommended to remove the medium support unit 28 from the position adjustment unit 59.

[0053] 5 and 6, when the head 33 is disposed in the cleaning position 75, there is a space 76 below the head 33 Z2. Because the position adjustment unit 59 is moved to the lowest position and the medium support unit 28 is removed, the space 76 becomes even larger. The space 76 also communicates with the second opening 21. For this reason, it is easy to clean the head 33 from outside the housing 11 of the printing device 10.

[0054] <Electrical configuration of the printing device 10> Next, the electrical configuration of the printing device 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 7, the printing device 10 includes a first drive unit 51. The first drive unit 51 is a drive source that moves the carriage 34 along the width direction X. The first drive unit 51 may be provided in the first movement unit 36.

[0055] The printing apparatus 10 includes a second drive unit 52. The second drive unit 52 is a drive source that moves the first moving unit 36 ​​along the front-rear direction Y. The second drive unit 52 may be provided in the second moving unit 38.

[0056] The printing device 10 includes a standby position detection unit 53. The standby position detection unit 53 is capable of detecting that the head 33 is disposed at the standby position 72. The standby position detection unit 53 may be provided in the first movement unit .

[0057] The printing device 10 includes a first movement position detection unit 54. The first movement position detection unit 54 is capable of detecting a position in the width direction X at which the head 33 moving in the width direction X is disposed. The first movement position detection unit 54 may be provided in the first movement unit 36.

[0058] The printing device 10 includes a front position detection unit 55. The front position detection unit 55 is capable of detecting that the head 33 is located at the frontmost position 74. The front position detection unit 55 may be provided in the second movement unit .

[0059] The printing device 10 includes a rear position detection unit 56. The rear position detection unit 56 is capable of detecting that the head 33 is disposed at the rearmost position. The rear position detection unit 56 may be provided in the second movement unit .

[0060] The printing device 10 includes a second movement position detection unit 57. The second movement position detection unit 57 is capable of detecting the position in the front-rear direction Y where the head 33 is disposed. The second movement position detection unit 57 may be provided in the second movement unit 38. In other words, the second movement position detection unit 57 detects the position of the head 33 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0061] The printing device 10 includes an adjustment position detection unit 60. The adjustment position detection unit 60 is capable of detecting the position of the support surface 29 in the vertical direction Z. In other words, the adjustment position detection unit 60 is configured to detect the distance between the support surface 29 and the nozzle surface. The adjustment position detection unit 60 may be included in the position adjustment unit 59.

[0062] The printing device 10 includes a cover drive unit 61. The cover drive unit 61 is a drive source that opens and closes the maintenance cover 44. In this manner, the cover drive unit 61 displaces the maintenance cover 44 between the open position and the closed position. In other words, the cover drive unit 61 moves the maintenance cover 44.

[0063] The control unit 50 is connected to the display unit 26, the head 33, the first drive unit 51, the second drive unit 52, the position adjustment unit 59, the cover drive unit 61, the liquid supply unit 31, and the maintenance unit 40. The control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display various images. The control unit 50 controls the head 33, the first drive unit 51, the second drive unit 52, the position adjustment unit 59, the cover drive unit 61, the liquid supply unit 31, and the maintenance unit 40 by supplying drive signals. In particular, the control unit 50 controls the first movement unit 36 ​​by controlling the first drive unit 51. The control unit 50 controls the second movement unit 38 by controlling the second drive unit 52. The control unit 50 controls the maintenance cover 44 by controlling the cover drive unit 61.

[0064] The control unit 50 is connected to the operation unit 27, the standby position detection unit 53, the first movement position detection unit 54, the front position detection unit 55, the rear position detection unit 56, the second movement position detection unit 57, the interference detection unit 58, and the adjustment position detection unit 60. The control unit 50 can receive an operation signal from the operation unit 27. The control unit 50 can receive detection signals from the standby position detection unit 53, the first movement position detection unit 54, the front position detection unit 55, the rear position detection unit 56, the second movement position detection unit 57, the interference detection unit 58, and the adjustment position detection unit 60.

[0065] The control unit 50 performs various controls based on the operation signal and the detection signal. As a specific example, when a print command is input, the control unit 50 controls the head 33, the first moving unit 36, and the second moving unit 38 to print on a medium based on image data included in the print command.

[0066] <Cleaning mode control process> Next, the cleaning mode control process will be described with reference to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. The cleaning mode control process is a process executed by the control unit 50 at predetermined intervals. Here, the order of each process can be arbitrarily changed within the scope of the purpose of each process.

[0067] As shown in Fig. 8, in step S10, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a movement instruction has been input based on an operation signal from the operation unit 27. The movement instruction is an instruction from the user for controlling to the cleaning mode. If the control unit 50 determines that a movement instruction has not been input, the control unit 50 shifts the process to step S21 in Fig. 9. If the control unit 50 determines that a movement instruction has been input, the control unit 50 shifts the process to step S11.

[0068] In step S11, the control unit 50 executes a removal notification process. In the removal notification process, the control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image that prompts the user to remove the medium support unit 28 from the position adjustment unit 59.

[0069] In step S12, the control unit 50 determines whether or not an consent instruction has been input based on an operation signal from the operation unit 27. The consent instruction is an instruction indicating consent to moving the head 33 to the cleaning position 75. The consent instruction is input after the user removes the medium support unit 28 from the position adjustment unit 59. If the control unit 50 determines that an consent instruction has not been input, it transitions to step S11 again. If the control unit 50 determines that an consent instruction has been input, it transitions to step S13.

[0070] In step S13, the control unit 50 executes a lowering adjustment process. In the lowering adjustment process, the control unit 50 controls the position adjustment unit 59 to lower to the lowest position. As a result, when the head 33 moves to the cleaning position 75, the space 76 below the head 33 Z2 becomes even wider.

[0071] In step S14, the control unit 50 executes a cover opening control process. In the cover opening drive process, the control unit 50 controls the cover drive unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 from the closed position to the open position. In this way, when a movement command is input, the control unit 50 controls the cover drive unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 to the open position.

[0072] In step S15, the control unit 50 executes a forward movement control process. In the forward movement control process, the control unit 50 controls the second drive unit 52 to move the head 33 forward Y1.

[0073] In step S16, the control unit 50 determines whether or not interference with the head 33 has been detected based on the detection signal from the interference detection unit 58. In this way, when a movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 determines interference with the head 33 based on the detection result by the interference detection unit 58. When the control unit 50 determines that interference with the head 33 has been detected, it determines that an error based on interference detection has occurred, and transitions the process to step S24 in Fig. 9. On the other hand, when the control unit 50 determines that interference with the head 33 has not been detected, it transitions the process to step S17.

[0074] In step S17, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the head 33 has reached the foremost position 74 based on the detection signal from the front position detection unit 55. That is, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the interference detection process for the head 33 has been completed by moving the interference detection unit 58 forward Y1 together with the head 33 until the head 33 reaches the foremost position 74 from the standby position 72. If the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has not reached the foremost position 74, it shifts the process to step S15 again. On the other hand, if the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has reached the foremost position 74, it shifts the process to step S18.

[0075] In step S18, the control unit 50 executes a center movement control process. In the center movement control process, the control unit 50 controls the first drive unit 51 to move the head 33 in the second width direction X2 by the first movement unit .

[0076] In step S19, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the head 33 has reached the cleaning position 75 based on the detection signal from the first movement position detection unit 54. If the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has not reached the cleaning position 75, it transitions the process to step S18 again. If the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has reached the cleaning position 75, it transitions the process to step S20. In this way, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 in the second width direction X2 until the head 33 reaches the cleaning position 75.

[0077] In step S20, the control unit 50 executes a cleaning notification process. In the cleaning notification process, the control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image indicating that the head 33 has moved to the cleaning position 75. The control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image prompting the user to clean the head 33.

[0078] In this way, when a movement instruction is input, the display unit 26 displays a message urging the user to remove the medium support unit 28 from the position adjustment unit 59, and the control unit 50 moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75. Also, when a movement instruction is input, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75 with the medium support unit 28 lowered to the lowest position. In particular, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 so as to face the maintenance unit 40 while moving the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 9, in step S21, the control unit 50 determines whether or not an end instruction has been input based on an operation signal from the operation unit 27. The end instruction is an instruction from a user to end the cleaning mode. If the control unit 50 determines that an end instruction has not been input, it ends the cleaning control process. If the control unit 50 determines that an end instruction has been input, it proceeds to step S22.

[0080] In step S22, the control unit 50 executes a return control process. In the return control process, the control unit 50 controls the first drive unit 51 to cause the first movement unit 36 ​​to move the head 33 in the first width direction X1.

[0081] In step S23, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the head 33 has reached the foremost position 74 based on the detection signal from the first movement position detection unit 54. If the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has not reached the foremost position 74, it transitions the process to step S22 again. If the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has reached the foremost position 74, it transitions the process to step S24. In this manner, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 in the first width direction X1 until the head 33 reaches the foremost position 74.

[0082] In step S24, the control unit 50 executes a rearward movement control process. In the rearward movement control process, the control unit 50 controls the second driving unit 52 to move the head 33 rearward Y2.

[0083] In step S25, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the head 33 has reached the standby position 72 based on the detection signal from the rear position detection unit 56. If the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has not reached the standby position 72, the control unit 50 again shifts the process to step S24. On the other hand, if the control unit 50 determines that the head 33 has reached the standby position 72, the control unit 50 shifts the process to step S26.

[0084] In step S26, the control unit 50 executes a cover close control process. In the cover close drive process, the control unit 50 controls the cover drive unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 from the open position to the closed position. In this way, when an end command is input, the control unit 50 controls the cover drive unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 to the closed position.

[0085] In step S27, the control unit 50 executes an upward adjustment process. In the upward adjustment process, the control unit 50 controls the position adjustment unit 59 to be raised to the highest position. This makes it easier to place the medium on the medium support unit 28 when the medium support unit 28 is attached to the position adjustment unit 59.

[0086] In step S28, the control unit 50 executes an attachment notification process. In the attachment notification process, the control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image that prompts the position adjustment unit 59 to attach the medium support unit 28.

[0087] In step S29, the control unit 50 judges whether an error based on the interference detection has occurred. If the control unit 50 judges that an error has not occurred, the cleaning control process ends. If the control unit 50 judges that an error has occurred, the process proceeds to step S30.

[0088] In step S30, the control unit 50 executes an error notification process. In the error notification process, the control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image indicating that an error based on interference detection has occurred. The control unit 50 causes the display unit 26 to display an image encouraging the user to remove an object interfering with the head 33.

[0089] <Operation of the First Embodiment> The operation of the first embodiment will be described. When a movement instruction is input by the user operating operation unit 27, display unit 26 displays an image prompting the user to remove medium support unit 28. After the user removes medium support unit 28 from position adjustment unit 59, when the user inputs an acceptance instruction by operating operation unit 27, position adjustment unit 59 descends to the lowest position and maintenance cover 44 moves to the open state. Then, head 33 starts moving from standby position 72 to forward most position 74. Head 33 passes through maintenance area 73 on the way from standby position 72 to forward most position 74.

[0090] If interference with the head 33 is detected based on the detection results by the interference detection unit 58 while the head 33 is moving from the standby position 72 to the forwardmost position 74, the head 33 returns to the standby position 72, and an image indicating that an error has occurred based on the interference detection is displayed.

[0091] When head 33 reaches forward-most position 74 without an error based on interference detection occurring, head 33 moves from forward-most position 74 to cleaning position 75. When head 33 is disposed at cleaning position 75, display unit 26 displays an image prompting cleaning of head 33. As a result, head 33 moves from standby position 72 not included in facing region 71 to cleaning position 75 included in facing region 71.

[0092] When the head 33 is placed in the cleaning position 75, a space 76 expands below the head 33 in the Z2 direction. In particular, when the head 33 is placed in the cleaning position 75, the medium support unit 28 is not placed below the head 33 in the Z2 direction, and the position adjustment unit 59 is placed in the lowest position. Therefore, the space 76 below the head 33 in the Z2 direction is wider than when printing on a medium. A space for maintaining the head can be secured without providing a dedicated maintenance area. In addition, the cleaning position 75 is located behind the second opening 21 in the Y2 direction. Therefore, the user can easily clean the head 33 from outside the housing 11.

[0093] When a user operates operation unit 27 to input an end command, head 33 moves from cleaning position 75 to forwardmost position 74. When head 33 reaches forwardmost position 74, head 33 moves from forwardmost position 74 to standby position 72. Then, position adjustment unit 59 rises to the highest position, and maintenance cover 44 moves to the closed state. In addition, display unit 26 displays an image prompting the user to attach medium support unit 28 to position adjustment unit 59. Then, the user attaches medium support unit 28 to position adjustment unit 59.

[0094] <Advantages of the First Embodiment> The effects of the first embodiment will be described. (1) When a movement command is input, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 that is not included in the facing region 71 to the cleaning position 75 that is included in the facing region 71. With this configuration, even if a cleaning position is not provided in an area that is not included in the facing region 71, the head 33 can be cleaned by moving the head 33 to the cleaning position 75 that is included in the facing region 71. In addition, the user is prompted to remove the medium support unit 28 from the position adjustment unit 59, and when the medium support unit 28 is removed from the position adjustment unit 59, the space 76 for cleaning the head 33 can be expanded between the head 33 and the position adjustment unit 59. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device 10.

[0095] (2) When a movement command is input, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75 while the medium support unit 28 is lowered to the lowest position. With this configuration, even if the cleaning position 75 is not provided in an area not included in the facing area 71, the head 33 can be cleaned by moving the head 33 to the cleaning position 75 included in the facing area 71. In addition, by lowering the medium support unit 28 below the highest position Z2, a space 76 for cleaning the head 33 can be secured between the head 33 and the medium support unit 28. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device 10.

[0096] (3) The opening 19 opens a portion of the top surface 16 and a portion of the front surface 12. The cleaning position 75 is located on the forward Y1 side of the facing region 71. With this configuration, by moving the head 33 to the cleaning position 75 included in the facing region 71, it becomes easy to clean the head 33 from outside the housing 11 through the opening 19. Therefore, it is possible to improve maintainability without increasing the size of the printing device 10.

[0097] (4) When a movement command is input, the control unit 50 moves the head 33 so as to face the maintenance unit 40 while moving the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75. With this configuration, even if liquid drips from the head 33, it is possible to prevent the liquid from scattering inside the housing 11, compared to when the head 33 moves so as not to face the maintenance unit 40. Therefore, it is possible to improve maintainability.

[0098] (5) The maintenance cover 44 is movable between an open position where the maintenance unit 40 is opened and a closed position where the maintenance unit 40 is closed. When a movement command is input, the control unit 50 controls the cover drive unit 61 to move the maintenance cover 44 to the open position. With this configuration, the maintenance cover 44 is moved to the closed position, thereby preventing the maintenance unit 40 from drying out. When a movement command is input, the maintenance cover 44 is moved to the open position, thereby enabling the maintenance unit 40 to face the head 33. As a result, even if liquid drips from the head 33 when the head 33 moves through the maintenance area 73, the liquid from the head 33 can be prevented from scattering inside the printing device 10. Therefore, the ease of maintenance can be improved.

[0099] (6) The interference detection unit 58 operates in conjunction with the movement of the head 33 in the front-rear direction Y, and detects interference with the head 33. When a movement command is input, the control unit 50 determines interference with the head 33 based on the detection result by the interference detection unit 58. With this configuration, the head 33 can be moved while taking into consideration interference with the head 33. Therefore, maintainability can be improved.

[0100] [Example of change] This embodiment can be modified as follows: This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that there is no technical contradiction.

[0101] When a movement command is input, the control unit 50 does not have to lower the medium support unit 28 to the lowest position. When a movement command is input, the control unit 50 does not have to control the maintenance cover 44 to the open position.

[0102] The medium support unit 28 may be fixed to the position adjustment unit 59. In other words, the medium support unit 28 may not be detachable from the position adjustment unit 59. In this case, it is preferable that the control unit 50 moves the head 33 from the standby position 72 to the cleaning position 75 with the medium support unit 28 lowered.

[0103] The control unit 50 may execute the lowering adjustment process after the cover opening control process is completed. The control unit 50 may execute the lowering adjustment process and the cover opening control process in the same period. The control unit 50 may execute the cover closing control process after the rise adjustment process is completed. The control unit 50 may execute the rise adjustment process and the cover closing control process in the same period.

[0104] The standby position 72 and the foremost position 74 may be located further in the second width direction X2 than the facing region 71. Although the foremost position 74 is set as the relay position, this is not limiting, and for example, a position Y2 behind the foremost position 74 may be set as the relay position. In other words, the relay position does not have to be the foremost position 74.

[0105] The entire cleaning position 75 may be included in the facing area 71. That is, a part or all of the cleaning position 75 may be included in the facing area 71. Using a medium support unit 28 of the largest size among the medium support units 28 detachable from the position adjustment unit 59 of the printing device 10 as a reference, a part or all of the cleaning position 75 may be included in the facing area 71. That is, using a medium support unit 28 of a size other than the largest size among the medium support units 28 detachable from the position adjustment unit 59 of the printing device 10 as a reference, a part or all of the cleaning position 75 may not be included in the facing area 71.

[0106] Various instructions may be input by the user in response to operations of a terminal device capable of communicating with the printing device 10. In this case, a communication unit capable of communicating with the printing device 10 corresponds to an example of an input unit.

[0107] Before a movement command is input, the medium support unit 28 may be located at a position lower than the highest position. In the cleaning mode, the position adjustment unit 59 may be displaced so that the medium support unit 28 is lowered to a position higher than the lowest position.

[0108] If the medium support unit 28 is detachable, the position adjustment unit 59 does not need to adjust the position of the medium support unit 28 in the vertical direction Z. In other words, the position adjustment unit 59 may be any attachment unit to which the medium support unit 28 is detachable.

[0109] The maintenance unit 40 may be located in the movement area 70, in the second width direction X2 of the medium support unit 28. The standby position 72 may be located in the movement area 70, in the second width direction X2 of the medium support unit 28. The standby position 72 may be located in the movement area 70, at the front Y1.

[0110] The first opening 20 and the second opening 21 do not have to be continuous with each other, and may be provided separately. The opening 19 does not have to be provided across the top surface 16 and the front surface 12. The opening 19 may be provided across the top surface 16, the front surface 12, and other surfaces. That is, the opening 19 may be provided across at least the top surface 16 and the front surface 12. Also, the opening 19 may be provided in the top surface 16, and does not have to be provided in the front surface 12. That is, it is sufficient that the opening 19 is provided in at least the top surface 16.

[0111] The second opening 21 may be provided on any one of the rear surface 13, the left side surface 14, and the right side surface 15. In other words, any one of the rear surface 13, the left side surface 14, and the right side surface 15 may correspond to an example of a side surface. In this case, the cleaning position 75 may be assigned to the position where the second opening 21 is provided.

[0112] The support surface 29 is configured so as not to move horizontally, but may be finely adjustable horizontally only when, for example, printing is not taking place, or may be configured so as not to move horizontally at least when printing is taking place.

[0113] The first opening 20 may be longer than the support surface 29 in the front-rear direction Y when viewed from above Z1. The printing unit 32 may perform printing when the head 33 moves in either the first width direction X1 or the second width direction X2, or may perform printing both when the head 33 moves in the first width direction X1 and when the head 33 moves in the second width direction X2.

[0114] The head 33 may have a nozzle surface that is parallel to a horizontal plane, or may have a nozzle surface that is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane. The maintenance unit 40 does not have to include at least any one of the flushing unit 41, the wiping unit 42, the suction unit 43, and the waste liquid tank.

[0115] When transmitting information and encouraging an action to the user, the control unit 50 may notify the user by other methods, such as sound, instead of displaying an image on the display unit 26. In other words, the notification unit may notify the user by using a combination of multiple methods, such as images and sound.

[0116] The relationship between the width direction X and the front-rear direction Y in this embodiment may be reversed. That is, the width direction X in this embodiment may be the front-rear direction Y, and the front-rear direction Y in this embodiment may be the width direction X.

[0117] The medium is not limited to a T-shirt or a polo shirt, but may be a sweatshirt, a hoodie, or any other clothing. In addition, a flexible medium is used, but the medium is not limited to this, and an inflexible medium such as a smartphone case printed with UV ink may be used.

[0118] The printing device 10 may be configured to eject ink as an example of a liquid, but may also be configured to eject a liquid other than ink. In other words, the liquid may be selected arbitrarily as long as it is capable of printing on a medium by adhering to the medium.

[0119] The term "at least any" as used herein means one or more of the desired options. As an example, the term "at least any" as used herein means only one option or both options if the number of options is two. As another example, the term "at least any" as used herein means only one option or any combination of two or more options if the number of options is three or more.

[0120] [Note] The technical ideas and effects obtained from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described below.

[0121] (A) A printing device includes an attachment unit to which a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium can be attached and detached, a head capable of ejecting liquid onto a medium supported on the support surface, a first movement unit that moves the head in a first direction parallel to the support surface, a second movement unit that moves the head in a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects the first direction, a control unit that controls the first movement unit and the second movement unit, an input unit to which a user can input instructions, and an alarm unit that notifies information, wherein the head is movable to an opposing area that faces the support surface, and when a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the alarm unit issues a notification urging the user to remove the medium support unit from the attachment unit, and the control unit moves the head from a standby position not included in the opposing area to a cleaning position that is partly or entirely included in the opposing area.

[0122] According to this configuration, even if a cleaning position is not provided in an area not included in the facing area, the head can be cleaned by moving the head to a cleaning position included in the facing area. Also, by encouraging the user to remove the medium support part from the position adjustment part, the space for cleaning the head can be expanded between the head and the mounting part when the medium support part is removed from the mounting part. Therefore, the maintainability can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device.

[0123] (B) A printing device includes a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium, a position adjustment unit that adjusts the position of the medium support unit vertically, a head capable of ejecting liquid onto a medium supported on the support surface, a first movement unit that moves the head in a first direction parallel to the support surface, a second movement unit that moves the head in a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects the first direction, a control unit that controls the first movement unit and the second movement unit, and an input unit that can input instructions from a user, wherein the head is movable to an opposing area that faces the support surface, and when a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit moves the head from a standby position that is not included in the opposing area to a cleaning position that is partly or entirely included in the opposing area, with the medium support unit lowered below its highest position.

[0124] According to this configuration, even if a cleaning position is not provided in an area not included in the facing area, the head can be cleaned by moving the head to a cleaning position included in the facing area. Also, by lowering the medium support part below the highest position, a space for cleaning the head can be secured between the head and the medium support part. Therefore, the maintenance property can be improved without increasing the size of the printing device.

[0125] (C) The printing device includes a housing that houses at least the medium support unit, the head, the first moving unit, and the second moving unit, the housing having a top surface, a side surface, and an opening, the opening opening opening a portion of the top surface and a portion of the side surface, and the cleaning position may be located on the side surface side of the opening in the opposing area.

[0126] According to this configuration, by moving the head to a cleaning position included in the facing region, it becomes easy to clean the head from outside the housing through the opening, which improves maintainability without increasing the size of the printing device.

[0127] (D) The above printing device includes a maintenance unit that maintains the head, the maintenance unit is located to one side in the first direction from the medium support unit, and the standby position is located to one side in the first direction from the medium support unit, and when a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit may move the head so that it faces the maintenance unit while moving the head from the standby position to the cleaning position.

[0128] According to this configuration, even if liquid drips from the head when the head moves so as to face the maintenance unit, the liquid from the head can be prevented from scattering inside the printing device, thereby improving maintainability.

[0129] (E) The above printing device includes a maintenance cover and a cover drive unit, the maintenance cover being movable between an open position that opens the maintenance unit and a closed position that closes the maintenance unit, the cover drive unit moves the maintenance cover, and when a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit may control the cover drive unit to move the maintenance cover to the open position.

[0130] According to this configuration, by moving the maintenance cover to the closed position, it is possible to prevent the maintenance unit from drying out. Then, when a movement command is input, by moving the maintenance cover to the open position, it becomes possible for the maintenance unit to face the head. This makes it possible to prevent the liquid from the head from scattering inside the printing device, even if liquid drips from the head when the head moves through the maintenance area. Therefore, it is possible to improve maintainability.

[0131] (F) The printing device may include an interference detection unit that detects interference with the head, the interference detection unit being linked to movement of the head in the second direction, and when a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit may determine interference with the head based on a detection result by the interference detection unit.

[0132] According to this configuration, when a movement command is input, interference with the head can be determined in conjunction with moving the head in the second direction. This allows the head to be moved while taking into consideration interference with the head. Therefore, maintainability can be improved.

[0133] (G) A control method of a printing device, when a movement instruction is input by a user, a notification unit of the printing device issues a notification urging the user to remove a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium, and a control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of ejecting liquid onto the medium supported by the medium support unit in a first direction parallel to the support surface and a second direction parallel to the support surface and intersecting the first direction, thereby moving the head from a standby position not included in an opposing area facing the support surface to a cleaning position partly or entirely included in the opposing area. This configuration produces the same effect as the above-mentioned (A).

[0134] (H) A control method of a printing device, when a movement command is input by a user, a control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of ejecting liquid onto a medium in a first direction parallel to the support surface and in a second direction parallel to the support surface and intersecting with the first direction, while a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium is lowered below a highest position, thereby moving the head from a standby position not included in an opposing area facing the support surface to a cleaning position partly or entirely included in the opposing area. This configuration produces the same effect as (B) above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] X...width direction, X1...first width direction, X2...second width direction, Y...front-rear direction, Y1...front, Y2...rear, Z...vertical direction, Z1...upper, Z2...lower, 10...printing device, 11...casing, 12...front, 13...rear, 14...left side, 15...right side, 16...top, 17...bottom, 18...casing frame, 19...opening, 20...first opening, 21...second opening, 22...opening cover, 23...first opening cover, 24...second opening cover, 25...handling section, 26...display section, 27...operation section, 28...medium support section, 29...support surface, 30...medium storage section, 31...liquid supply section, 32...printing section, 33...head, 34...carriage, 35...moving section, 36...first moving section, 37...first gas guide portion, 38...second moving portion, 39...second guide portion, 40...maintenance portion, 41...flushing portion, 42...wiping portion, 43...suction portion, 44...maintenance cover, 45...cover accommodating portion, 50...control portion, 51...first driving portion, 52...second driving portion, 53...standby position detection portion, 54...first moving position detection portion, 55...front position detection portion, 56...rear position detection portion, 57...second moving position detection portion, 58...interference detection portion, 58A...light projecting portion, 58B...light receiving portion, 59...position adjustment portion, 60...adjustment position detection portion, 61...cover driving portion, 70...movement area, 71...opposing area, 72...standby position, 73...maintenance area, 74...forwardmost position, 75...cleaning position, 76...space.

Claims

1. an attachment section to which a medium support section having a support surface for supporting a medium can be detachably attached; a head capable of ejecting liquid onto a medium supported on the support surface; a first moving unit that moves the head in a first direction parallel to the support surface; a second moving unit that moves the head in a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects with the first direction; A control unit that controls the first movement unit and the second movement unit; an input unit into which a user can input instructions; A notification unit that notifies information; Equipped with The head is movable to an opposing area facing the support surface, When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the notification unit issues a notification to prompt a user to remove the medium support unit from the attachment unit, and the control unit moves the head from a standby position not included in the facing area to a cleaning position part or all of which is included in the facing area. A printing device comprising:

2. a medium support portion having a support surface for supporting a medium; a position adjustment unit that adjusts the position of the medium support unit in a vertical direction; a head capable of ejecting liquid onto a medium supported on the support surface; a first moving unit that moves the head in a first direction parallel to the support surface; a second moving unit that moves the head in a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects with the first direction; A control unit that controls the first movement unit and the second movement unit; an input unit into which a user can input instructions; Equipped with The head is movable to an opposing area facing the support surface, When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit moves the head from a standby position that is not included in the facing area to a cleaning position that is partly or entirely included in the facing area, with the medium support unit being lowered below a highest position. A printing device comprising:

3. 3. The printing device according to claim 1, a housing that accommodates at least the medium support unit, the head, the first moving unit, and the second moving unit; The housing has a top surface, a side surface, and an opening, The opening portion opens a part of the top surface and a part of the side surface, The cleaning position is located on the side surface side of the opening in the facing region. A printing device comprising:

4. 3. The printing device according to claim 1, a maintenance unit for performing maintenance on the head, the maintenance unit is located in one direction relative to the medium support unit in the first direction, the standby position is located in one direction relative to the medium support unit in the first direction, When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit moves the head so as to face the maintenance unit during the movement of the head from the standby position to the cleaning position. A printing device comprising:

5. 5. The printing device according to claim 4, A maintenance cover and a cover drive unit are provided. the maintenance cover is movable between an open position at which the maintenance unit is opened and a closed position at which the maintenance unit is closed, The cover driving unit moves the maintenance cover, When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit controls the cover driving unit to move the maintenance cover to an open position. A printing device comprising:

6. 3. The printing device according to claim 1, an interference detection unit that detects interference with the head; the interference detection unit is linked to the movement of the head in the second direction, When a movement instruction is input to the input unit, the control unit determines interference with the head based on a detection result by the interference detection unit. A printing device comprising:

7. When a movement instruction is input by a user, a notification unit of the printing device issues a notification urging the user to remove a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium, and a control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of ejecting liquid onto the medium supported by the medium support unit in a first direction parallel to the support surface and a second direction that is parallel to the support surface and intersects with the first direction, thereby moving the head from a standby position that is not included in an opposing area facing the support surface to a cleaning position that is partly or entirely included in the opposing area. A method for controlling a printing device.

8. When a movement instruction is input by a user, a control unit of the printing device moves a head capable of ejecting liquid onto a medium in a first direction parallel to the support surface and in a second direction parallel to the support surface and intersecting with the first direction, while lowering a medium support unit having a support surface that supports a medium below a highest position, thereby moving the head from a standby position that is not included in an opposing area facing the support surface to a cleaning position that is partly or entirely included in the opposing area. A method for controlling a printing device.

Images