Recording device and recording method

Abstract

To control a temperature of hot air while taking a heat-resistant temperature of a fan into consideration.SOLUTION: A recording device comprises drying means. The drying means has: an air intake duct; a heating part that heats outdoor air taken in through the air intake duct; a blowing part that performs a blowing-operation of blowing heated outdoor air that is the outdoor air heated by the heating part, in a constant direction; a guiding duct through which the heated outdoor air blown out by the blowing part is guided toward recording paper; a returning duct through which portion of the heated outdoor air guided through the guiding duct is returned toward the blowing part; and a temperature sensing part which is provided inside the drying means, and senses a temperature in the drying means. When the blowing part performs the blowing operation, the portion of the heated outdoor air returned through the returning duct and the outdoor air guided through the air intake duct flow into the part. When the temperature sensed by the temperature sensing part reaches an upper limit of the heat-resistant temperature of the blowing part, the control means controls the blowing operation so that quantity of outdoor air flowing into the blowing part is increased.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a recording device and a recording method. [Background technology]

[0002] Among recording devices, for example, an inkjet recording device having a recording head is known. The inkjet recording device ejects ink from the ejection openings of the recording head. The inkjet recording device ejects ink onto a recording medium such as roll paper or cut paper. Among such inkjet recording devices, one having a unit for drying the ink ejected onto the recording medium has been disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This unit has a heater for heating air, a fan for circulating the air heated by the heater as hot air, a motor attached to the shaft of the fan, and a control board for rotating and driving the motor. Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for drying the recording medium by raising the temperature of the heater and putting the inside of the unit into a high-temperature environment. Also, in the technology of Patent Document 1, if the rotation speed of the fan is increased and more hot air is applied to the recording medium, the drying efficiency of the ink is further improved. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-224932 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The bearings that support the shaft of the fan, the electronic components on the control board, and other components are not designed for use in an environment that exceeds their heat resistance. However, the technology in Patent Document 1 does not control the hot air temperature while taking into account the heat resistance temperature of the fan.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to control the hot air temperature while taking into consideration the heat resistance temperature of the fan. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A recording device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording sheet, a drying unit that is provided downstream of the image forming unit and dries the recording sheet on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit, and a control unit that controls the operation of the drying unit. The drying unit includes an intake duct that takes in outside air, a heating unit that heats the outside air taken in by the intake duct, a blower unit that performs a blowing operation to blow out the heated outside air, which is the outside air heated by the heating unit, in a fixed direction, and an induction duct that guides the heated outside air blown out by the blower unit toward the recording sheet. The drying means has a duct that guides a portion of the heated outside air guided from the induction duct toward the blowing section, and a temperature detection unit that is provided inside the drying means and detects the temperature inside the drying means, wherein when the blowing operation is performed, the blowing section receives a portion of the heated outside air guided from the return duct and the outside air guided from the intake duct, and the control means controls the blowing operation so as to increase the amount of the outside air flowing into the blowing section when the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit reaches an upper limit of the heat resistance temperature of the blowing section. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to perform control so as to increase the hot air temperature to or above the heat-resistant temperature of the fan, while taking into consideration the heat-resistant temperature of the fan. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a recording apparatus. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a control unit; [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a drying module. [Figure 4]FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a cooling module. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a drying module. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart illustrating a temperature rise suppression process. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a drying module. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart illustrating a temperature rise suppression process. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a drying module. [Figure 10] 4 is a flowchart illustrating a temperature rise suppression process. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a drying module. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a drying module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the present disclosure, and not all combinations of features described in the following embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the present disclosure. Note that the same reference numbers are used for the same components.

[0010] <<First embodiment>> FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a recording device 1. In this embodiment, the upper side of the paper in FIG. 1 is the upper side, the lower side of the paper in FIG. 1 is the lower side, the direction from the right to the left of the paper in FIG. 1 is the recording paper transport direction, and the direction from the front of the paper to the depth perpendicular to the recording paper transport direction is the recording paper width direction, as appropriate. The recording device 1 is, for example, a high-speed line printer. The recording device 1 uses, for example, continuous recording paper S as the recording paper. The continuous recording paper S is a long piece of paper wound into a roll (hereinafter, also referred to as a roll sheet as appropriate). The recording device 1 is suitable for the printing field, for example, for mass printing in print laboratories and the like.

[0011] This embodiment is widely applicable to printing devices in general, such as printers, multifunction printers, copiers, facsimile machines, and manufacturing devices for various devices. The printing process may be of any type, such as inkjet, electrophotographic, thermal transfer, dot impact, or liquid development. This embodiment is also applicable not only to printing devices, but also to sheet transport devices that perform various processes (recording, processing, coating, irradiating, reading, inspection, etc.) while transporting a roll sheet. This embodiment is also applicable to machines that have a drying process in manufacturing devices for various devices.

[0012] <Configuration of Recording Device 1> The recording device 1 in FIG. 1 includes a recording paper supply unit 102 and a recording paper recovery unit 110. The recording paper supply unit 102 and the recording paper recovery unit 110 are units that realize various functions of the recording device 1. Details of each unit will be described later. The recording device 1 includes a tension adjustment unit 100, a first conveying roller pair 103, a meandering correction unit 104, a tension detection unit 105, a recording unit 106, a drying unit 108, a cooling unit 111, and a second conveying roller pair 109. Between the first conveying roller pair 103 and the second conveying roller pair 109, the meandering correction unit 104, the tension detection unit 105, the recording unit 106, the drying unit 108, and the cooling unit 111 are arranged in this order along the recording paper conveying path P. The tension adjustment unit 100, the first conveying roller pair 103, the meandering correction unit 104, the tension detection unit 105, the recording unit 106, the drying unit 108, the cooling unit 111, and the second conveying roller pair 109 are units that realize various functions of the recording device 1. Details of each unit will be described later. The recording device 1 includes a control unit 101 unit. The control unit 101 is a unit that realizes the function of being the main control unit of the recording device 1. The continuous recording paper S is conveyed along the recording paper conveying path P, and each unit performs processing related to various functions. The recording paper conveying path P is indicated by a solid line in FIG. 1. Note that FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which the recording paper supply unit 102 and the recording paper recovery unit 110 are provided inside the recording device 1. However, this is not limited to this example. The recording paper supply unit 102 and the recording paper recovery unit 110 may be provided outside the recording device 1. In this case, the recording paper supply unit 102 may be provided on the front side of the recording device 1. On the other hand, the recording paper recovery unit 110 may be provided at a rear stage of the recording device 1. Also, in Fig. 1, illustration of each of a plurality of transport rollers provided at regular intervals along the recording paper transport path P is omitted.

[0013] <Recording Paper Supply Unit 102> The recording paper supply unit 102 in FIG. 1 holds the continuous recording paper S wound in a roll. The recording paper supply unit 102 is a unit that supplies the held continuous recording paper S to the rear stage. The recording paper supply unit 102 stores, for example, a roll 112 as the continuous recording paper S. The recording paper supply unit 102 pulls out the stored roll 112 and supplies it to the rear stage. Note that FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which the recording paper supply unit 102 can store one roll. However, this is not the only example. The recording paper supply unit 102 can store two or three or more rolls. In this case, the recording paper supply unit 102 may selectively supply one roll from among the multiple rolls stored to the rear stage as the continuous recording paper S. In addition, the continuous recording paper S is not limited to a roll. For example, the continuous recording paper S may be perforated at each unit length. In this case, the continuous recording paper S may be stored in the recording paper supply unit 102 in a stacked state by folding back at each perforation. An example of the continuous recording paper S having perforations in this manner is a slip.

[0014] <First conveyor roller pair 103> The first conveying roller pair 103 in FIG. 1 is provided between the recording paper supply unit 102 and the meandering correction unit 104. The first conveying roller pair 103 is a unit that applies tension to the continuous recording paper passing through the meandering correction unit 104, the tension detection unit 105, the recording unit 106, the drying unit 108, and the cooling unit 111 in cooperation with the second conveying roller pair 109. The first conveying roller pair 103 has two rollers, and the two rollers are arranged opposite each other. When the second conveying roller pair 109 is driven, the two rollers of the first conveying roller pair 103 rotate with a nip formed between them. The continuous recording paper S is fed into the recording paper conveying path P through this nip. As a result, the continuous recording paper S is conveyed along the recording paper conveying path P with a certain tension applied to it. Hereinafter, conveying the continuous recording paper S with a certain tension applied to it is appropriately referred to as tension conveying of the continuous recording paper S.

[0015] <Meandering correction unit 104> The meandering correction unit 104 in FIG. 1 is provided between the first conveying roller pair 103 and the tension detection unit 105. The meandering correction unit 104 is a unit that corrects meandering in the width direction of the continuous recording paper S when the continuous recording paper S is conveyed under tension. The meandering correction unit 104 has a plurality of meandering correction rollers 104a and a plurality of meandering detection sensors (not shown). Each meandering detection sensor detects meandering of the continuous recording paper. Each meandering correction roller 104a is provided with a motor (not shown) that can change the amount of tilt with respect to the continuous recording paper S. This motor (not shown) can change the amount of tilt of each meandering correction roller 104a with respect to the conveying direction of the continuous recording paper S. In other words, each meandering correction roller 104a can change the amount of tilt with respect to the conveying direction of the continuous recording paper S. Each of these meandering correction rollers 104a functions as a steering roller. With this configuration, the meandering correction unit 104 corrects meandering of the continuous recording paper S based on the measurement results of each meandering detection sensor. At this time, the meandering correction function can be improved by winding the continuous recording paper S around each meandering correction roller 104a.

[0016] <Tension detection unit 105; Recording unit 106> The tension detection unit 105 in FIG. 1 is provided between the meandering correction unit 104 and the recording unit 106. The tension detection unit 105 is a unit that detects tension when the continuous recording paper S is conveyed under tension between the first conveying roller pair 103 and the second conveying roller pair 109. The recording unit 106 is provided between the tension detection unit 105 and the drying unit 108. The recording unit 106 has a plurality of recording heads 113, a plurality of guide rollers 114, and one head holder 115. The recording unit 106 is a unit that performs recording processing on the continuous recording paper S conveyed by each guide roller 114 from above the continuous recording paper S using each recording head 113.

[0017] Specifically, the guide rollers 114 are arranged at regular intervals along an upwardly convex arc shape. The arrangement of the guide rollers 114 forms a transport path for the continuous recording paper S in the recording unit 106 as part of the recording paper transport path P. In addition, each guide roller 114 applies a certain tension to the continuous recording paper S. This certain tension ensures a clearance between each recording head 113 and the continuous recording paper S. The recording heads 113 are arranged at regular intervals in an arc shape above each guide roller 114 along the transport path formed by each guide roller 114. Each of the recording heads 113 is integrally held by a head holder 115. In the example of FIG. 1, the four recording heads 113 correspond to four colors, Bk (black), Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan). In addition, the four recording heads 113 form four line-type recording heads 107 along the width direction of the continuous recording paper S. The number of colors and the number of recording heads 113 are not limited to four. As described above, the multiple recording heads 113 are integrally held by the head holder 115. Therefore, the head holder 115 is configured to be adjustable in the vertical direction with respect to the continuous recording paper S so that the clearance between the continuous recording paper S and the recording heads 113 can be changed. The inkjet method of the recording unit 106 can be a method using a heating element, a method using a piezoelectric element, a method using an electrostatic element, a method using a MEMS element, or the like. The inks of each color may be supplied to the recording heads 113 from ink tanks (not shown) via ink tubes.

[0018] <Drying section 108> The drying unit 108 in FIG. 1 is provided between the recording unit 106 and the cooling unit 111. The drying unit 108 is a unit that dries the ink applied on the continuous recording paper S by the recording unit 106. Specifically, the drying unit 108 reduces the liquid component contained in the ink applied on the continuous recording paper S by heating the continuous recording paper S. This operation can improve the fixation of the ink on the continuous recording paper S. The drying unit 108 applies hot air to at least one side, for example, the upper side, of the continuous recording paper S passing through the inside of the drying unit 108. This operation makes it possible to dry the surface to which the ink has been applied. In addition to the hot air drying method that applies hot air, the drying method may be configured by further combining at least one of an electromagnetic wave irradiation method that irradiates the surface of the continuous recording paper S with electromagnetic waves such as ultraviolet rays or infrared rays, and a conductive heat transfer method by contact with a heating element. With such a combination, drying by another method is performed in addition to the hot air drying method, so that the drying ability can be further improved. FIG. 1 shows an example in which the drying unit 108 includes a drying module A 120, a drying module B 130, a drying module C 140, and a drying module D 150, but the detailed internal configuration of the drying unit 108 will be described later.

[0019] <Cooling section 111> The cooling section 111 in FIG. 1 is provided between the drying section 108 and the second conveying roller pair 109. The cooling section 111 is a unit that cools the continuous recording paper S heated by the drying section 108. The cooling section 111 cools the continuous recording paper S by blowing the taken-in outside air onto the continuous recording paper S. The continuous recording paper cooled by the cooling section 111 is collected in the recording paper recovery section 110 arranged downstream of the recording paper conveying path P. This suppresses the following in the recording paper recovery section 110. First, heat accumulation in the continuous recording paper S wound in a roll is suppressed. Second, ink is suppressed from adhering to the surface of the conveying roller (not shown) that contacts the ink on the continuous recording paper S. The cooling section 111 may also have a heat exchanger. With this configuration, the taken-in outside air exchanges heat in the heat exchanger to become air at a temperature lower than the outside air temperature of the recording device 1. This makes it possible to blow this low-temperature air onto the continuous recording paper S. In addition, FIG. 1 shows an example in which the cooling section 111 has a cooling module A 160 and a cooling module B 170, but the detailed internal configuration of the cooling section 111 will be described later in detail.

[0020] <Second conveying roller pair 109> The second conveying roller pair 109 in FIG. 1 is provided between the cooling section 111 and the recording paper recovery section 110. The second conveying roller pair 109, together with the first conveying roller pair 103, is a unit that applies tension to the continuous recording paper S. The second conveying roller pair 109 is also a unit that conveys the continuous recording paper S to which the tension has been applied. The second conveying roller pair 109 has two rollers. The two rollers of the second conveying roller pair 109 are arranged opposite each other. A motor (not shown) is attached to one of the two rollers. When the motor (not shown) is driven, the two rollers of the second conveying roller pair 109 rotate with a nip formed between the two rollers of the second conveying roller pair 109. Here, the tension applied to the continuous recording paper S is adjusted, for example, as follows. First, the tension detection section 105 detects the tension of the continuous recording paper S. Next, the tension detection section 105 outputs the detected tension to the tension adjustment section 100 as a tension value. Next, tension adjustment unit 100 adjusts the tension of the continuous recording paper S according to the tension value output by tension detection unit 105. Specifically, the tension applied to the continuous recording paper S is adjusted according to the tension value by a clutch (not shown) capable of controlling the torque applied to the rotation shaft of the rollers of the second transport roller pair 109 that is drivingly connected to a motor (not shown). Alternatively, the tension applied to the continuous recording paper S may be adjusted by the rotation speed of the rollers of the second transport roller pair 109. In this way, the tension applied to the continuous recording paper S can be adjusted by at least one of the torque control and the rotation speed of the rollers of the second transport roller pair 109.

[0021] <Recording paper collection section 110> The recording paper recovery unit 110 in FIG. 1 is provided on the rear side of the second conveying roller pair 109. The recording paper recovery unit 110 is a unit that winds the continuous recording paper S that has been recorded on around a core. The recording paper recovery unit 110 winds the continuous recording paper S that has been conveyed from the second conveying roller pair 109 around a core, and recovers the continuous recording paper S in a rolled state as a roll. The number of rolls that the recording paper recovery unit 110 can recover is not limited to one. The recording paper recovery unit 110 may have, for example, two or three or more cores. If it is assumed that the recording paper recovery unit 110 has multiple cores, the recording paper recovery unit 110 may be configured to selectively switch the core to be used among the multiple cores and recover the continuous recording paper S. The recording paper recovery unit 110 may not be configured to wind the continuous recording paper S around a core depending on the processing content after recording. The recording paper recovery unit 110 may have, for example, a cutter. In this case, the recording paper recovery unit 110 may be configured to use a cutter to cut the continuous recording paper S. With this configuration, the recording paper recovery unit 110 can also be configured to stack the cut continuous recording paper S.

[0022] <Control unit 101> The control unit 101 in FIG. 1 is a unit that controls each part of the entire recording device 1. The control unit 101 has an operation unit 118. The operation unit 118 accepts an operation by a user. For example, the control unit 101 may control the recording device 1 based on the content of the operation accepted from the operation unit 118. The control unit 101 may accept an instruction from a host PC 119. For example, the control unit 101 may control the recording device 1 based on an instruction from the host PC 119. The host PC 119 is specifically a host computer, but the device that controls the recording device 1 from the outside is not limited to this. For example, the recording device 1 may be controlled from another external terminal such as a smartphone. The internal functional configuration of the control unit 101 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 2.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control unit 101. The control unit 101 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 220, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 221, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 222, and an image memory 223. The CPU 220, the RAM 221, the ROM 222, and the image memory 223 are electrically connected to each other via a system bus 225. The image memory 223 is, for example, composed of a non-volatile semiconductor memory. The image memory 223 may be used as a memory for the recording device 1 to process images. The ROM 222 may store a program for implementing a control module for various controls of the recording device 1. The program stored in the ROM 222 is, for example, converted into an object module at the time of execution. When the object module is expanded on the RAM 221 as a working area of ​​the CPU 220, it is converted into a load module in which various libraries and the object module are linked. The load module is one of the tasks of the OS (Operating System). For example, when the OS executes a task in a preemptive manner, the task may be assigned to a CPU that performs time-sharing control by switching between various tasks including the above task within a certain period of time. Also, when the OS executes a task in a non-preemptive manner, an application that executes a program may voluntarily release the CPU from the task at regular intervals, so that a task of another application may be assigned to the CPU. Also, at least one of the data for various controls of the recording device 1 and the program for realizing a control module for various controls of the recording device 1 may be obtained from outside the recording device 1.

[0024] The control unit 101 has a RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing unit 203, a print data generation unit 204, and a nozzle data generation unit 205. The RIP processing unit 203, the print data generation unit 204, and the nozzle data generation unit 205 are electrically connected via a system bus 225. This connection configuration allows the RIP processing unit 203, the print data generation unit 204, and the nozzle data generation unit 205 to receive various control commands from the CPU 220.

[0025] The control unit 101 has a non-discharge nozzle information storage unit 206, a non-discharge complement processing unit 207, a head tilt information storage unit 208, and a head tilt correction unit 209. The non-discharge nozzle information storage unit 206, the non-discharge complement processing unit 207, the head tilt information storage unit 208, and the head tilt correction unit 209 are electrically connected via a system bus 225. This connection configuration enables the non-discharge nozzle information storage unit 206, the non-discharge complement processing unit 207, the head tilt information storage unit 208, and the head tilt correction unit 209 to receive various control commands from the CPU 220.

[0026] The control unit 101 has a nozzle data thinning unit 210 and an ejection data transfer unit 211. The control unit 101 has a host I / F unit 224. The nozzle data thinning unit 210, the ejection data transfer unit 211, and the host I / F unit 224 are electrically connected via a system bus 225. With such a connection configuration, the nozzle data thinning unit 210, the ejection data transfer unit 211, and the host I / F unit 224 can receive various control commands from the CPU 220. The host I / F unit 224 functions as an interface between the recording device 1 and the host PC 119. The host PC 119 may input print data to the control unit 101 via the host I / F unit 224. The print data input from the host PC 119 may be rendered by the RIP processing unit 203. The rendered print data is raster data, for example, multi-value bitmap data.

[0027] Here, the print data input from the host PC 119 to the control unit 101 is composed of, for example, PDL (Page Description Language). Furthermore, multi-value bitmap data generated by rendering the print data by the RIP processing unit 203 may be transferred to the print data generation unit 204. The print data generation unit 204 can perform ink color conversion and quantization processing on the multi-value bitmap data. For example, the print data generation unit 204 can generate halftone data of ink colors based on the multi-value bitmap data. The halftone data may be transferred to the nozzle data generation unit 205. The nozzle data generation unit 205 can assign the halftone data to each nozzle for each color. As a result, the halftone data becomes nozzle data (binary data) for the number of nozzles for each line. The nozzle data may be transferred to the non-discharge complement processing unit 207. The non-discharge complement processing unit 207 can perform non-discharge complement processing on the nozzle data. The non-discharge complement processing is a process of reassigning ejection data assigned to a non-discharge nozzle to a nozzle that is not a non-discharge nozzle. When performing the discharge failure complement process, the discharge failure complement processing unit 207 may refer to the discharge failure nozzle information stored in the discharge failure nozzle information storage unit 206. That is, the discharge failure complement processing unit 207 can perform the discharge failure complement process on the nozzle data based on the discharge failure nozzle information. The nozzle data on which the discharge failure complement process has been performed may be transferred to the head tilt correction unit 209. The head tilt correction unit 209 performs head tilt correction on the nozzle data on which the discharge failure complement process has been performed. The head tilt correction is a correction process that moves the nozzle data in the transport direction in accordance with the amount of head tilt. When performing the head tilt correction, the head tilt correction unit 209 may refer to the head tilt information stored in the head tilt information storage unit 208. That is, the head tilt correction unit 209 can perform head tilt correction on the nozzle data on which the discharge failure complement process has been performed based on the head tilt information. The nozzle data on which the head tilt correction has been performed is stored in the image memory 223.

[0028] The CPU 220 may transfer the nozzle data stored in the image memory 223 to the nozzle data thinning unit 210. The nozzle data thinning unit 210 performs a thinning process on the transferred nozzle data after tilt correction. The nozzle data thinning unit 210 transfers the nozzle data after thinning process to the ejection data transfer unit 211. The ejection data transfer unit 211 transfers the nozzle data transferred from the nozzle data thinning unit 210 to the recording head 113. Through this operation, the recording unit 106 performs a recording process on the continuous recording paper S by each recording head 113 based on the nozzle data in which the tilt of the recording head 113 has been corrected.

[0029] The control unit 101 has a drying control unit 226. The drying unit 108 has, for example, a drying module A120, a drying module B130, a drying module C140, and a drying module D150. The drying control unit 226 controls the temperature of the drying unit 108. Specifically, the drying control unit 226 controls the temperature of each of the drying modules A120, B130, C140, and D150. The drying control unit 226 may also poll the drying unit 108 (periodic inquiry about temperature). Alternatively, it may determine whether or not a normal temperature has been returned from the drying unit 108 to the drying control unit 226. Through these operations, the drying control unit 226 can determine whether or not each of the drying modules A120, B130, C140, and D150 is normal. The control unit 101 also has a cooling control unit 227. The cooling section 111 has, for example, a cooling module A160 and a cooling module B170. The configuration of the cooling module A160 will be described later with reference to FIG. 4. The drying control section 226 and the cooling control section 227 are electrically connected via a system bus 225. With this connection configuration, the drying control section 226 and the cooling control section 227 can receive control commands from the CPU 220 via the system bus 225.

[0030] <Drying module A120 configuration> <Outline configuration> FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the drying module A120. FIG. 3(a) is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the drying module A120. The drying module A120 has a heater module 302, a temperature sensor 303, and a fan 304. The heater module 302 has a function as a heating unit that heats the outside air taken into the inside of the drying module A120. The temperature sensor 303 has a function as a temperature detection unit that detects the temperature inside the drying module A120. The temperature sensor 303 is composed of, for example, a thermistor. The fan 304 has a function as a blower that performs a blowing operation to blow out heated outside air in a certain direction. The fan 304 is composed of, for example, an axial fan. In this embodiment, the description will be given assuming that the fan 304 is composed of an axial fan. The drying control unit 226 may receive information on the target temperature inside the drying module A120 as a control command from the CPU 220 in FIG. 2. Alternatively, the drying control unit 226 may previously store information on the target temperature inside the drying module A120. Alternatively, the drying control unit 226 may receive information on the target temperature inside the drying module A120 from the host PC 119 in Fig. 2. Alternatively, the drying control unit 226 may acquire information on the target temperature inside the drying module A120 from various data expanded on the RAM 221 in Fig. 2.

[0031] The drying control unit 226 sets the heater module 302 to either ON or OFF based on the hot air temperature to be measured by the temperature sensor 303. However, the drying control unit 226 may set the heater module 302 to alternate between ON and OFF depending on the duty ratio, instead of ON or OFF. For example, when the target temperature is 70° C. and the hot air temperature to be measured obtained from the temperature sensor 303 is 60° C., the drying control unit 226 controls the duty ratio of the heater module 302 to, for example, 100% so as to increase the hot air temperature. Alternatively, when the hot air temperature to be measured exceeds 70° C., the drying control unit 226 controls the duty ratio of the heater module 302 to, for example, 10% so as to decrease the hot air temperature. These values ​​are merely examples and are variable. Details of the object to be measured by the temperature sensor 303 will be described later with reference to FIG. 3(b).

[0032] <Drying module A120 configuration> <Configuration for taking in outside air> FIG. 3(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the drying module A120 along the recording paper width direction, as viewed from the upstream side of the paper transport direction. In FIG. 3(b), the direction from the front surface of the paper to the back surface of the paper is the transport direction of the continuous recording paper S. The drying module A120 is composed of a frame body 310. The material of the frame body 310 is, for example, metal. The frame body 310 may be formed, for example, by cutting, or may be assembled by welding parts formed partially by pressing, or may be molded by a 3D printer. The material of the frame body 310 is not limited to metal. The material of the frame body 310 may be any material that does not deform even when heated by the heater module 302.

[0033] The frame body 310 integrally configures the intake duct 305a, the heating duct 305b, the induction duct 305c, and the return duct 305d. The intake duct 305a, the heating duct 305b, the induction duct 305c, and the return duct 305d each have a hollow structure. The cross-sectional shape of each of the intake duct 305a and the heating duct 305b is an L-shape. The cross-sectional shape of each of the induction duct 305c and the return duct 305d is a rectangular shape.

[0034] An air intake port 307 is provided on an end face of a member along the longitudinal direction of the L-shape of the air intake duct 305a. The air intake port 307 is configured as a hole for taking in outside air. An air vent 311a is provided on an end face of a member along the longitudinal direction of the L-shape of the heating duct 305b. A fan 304 is attached to the air vent 311a. A portion of the member along the short side of the L-shape of the air intake duct 305a that faces the fan 304 is opened. Therefore, the upstream side of the fan 304 is connected to the downstream side of the air intake duct 305a. As shown in FIG. 3(b), an air passage through which outside air passes is configured. The air passage passes outside air in the order of the air intake port 307, the member along the longitudinal direction of the air intake duct 305a, the member along the short side of the air intake duct 305a, and the air vent 311a. Furthermore, in the airflow path, outside air passes through the ventilation port 311a, the member aligned along the longitudinal direction of the heating duct 305b, and the member aligned along the lateral direction of the heating duct 305b in this order. According to the configuration of this airflow path, when the fan 304 rotates so that air flows from the intake port 307 to the ventilation port 311a, the outside air taken in from the intake port 307 flows into the heating duct 305b via the intake duct 305a. Here, in order to allow air to flow from the intake port 307 to the ventilation port 311a, in a configuration in which the fan 304 is disposed upstream of the heater module 302, the fan 304 may be disposed so that the positive pressure side of the fan 304 faces the heater module 302.

[0035] A heater module 302 is disposed in the middle of the airflow path of the heating duct 305b. FIG. 3(b) shows an example in which the heater module 302 is disposed downstream of the fan 304. Thus, the outside air flowing into the heating duct 305b by the rotation of the fan 304 is heated by the heater module 302 to become heated outside air. An induction port 311b is provided on the lower left side of the induction duct 305c. A portion of the member along the short side of the L-shaped heating duct 305b that faces the induction port 311b is opened. Thus, as shown in FIG. 3(b), an airflow path is formed through which the outside air passes in the order of the vent 311a, the member along the longitudinal direction of the heating duct 305b, the member along the short side of the heating duct 305b, the induction port 311b, and the induction duct 305c. According to this configuration of the air passage, the heated outside air, which is the outside air heated by the heater module 302, is blown out by the fan 304 in the downstream direction of the fan 304, and so flows into the induction duct 305c via the induction port 311b.

[0036] A nozzle section 306 is provided on the lower surface of the induction duct 305c. The nozzle section 306 has a plurality of nozzle openings 306a. Each of the plurality of nozzle openings 306a is a through hole provided at a regular interval. The continuous recording paper S conveyed by the backup roller 309 passes below the plurality of nozzle openings 306a. An inlet 311c is provided on the lower left side of the return duct 305d. The position of the inlet 311c is lower than the plurality of nozzle openings 306a and higher than the backup roller 309. A return opening 311d is provided on the upper surface of the return duct 305d. An exhaust opening 308 is provided on the lower surface of the return duct 305d. Therefore, the downstream side of the return duct 305d is connected to the downstream side of the intake duct 305a. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3B, the heated outside air passes through the induction duct 305c, the nozzle openings 306a, and the surface of the continuous recording paper S, and an airflow path is formed in which a portion of the heated outside air returns to the inlet 311c, the return opening 311d, and the ventilation opening 311a. An airflow path is also formed in which a portion of the heated outside air that flows into the inlet 311c is exhausted to the outside of the frame body 310 through the exhaust opening 308. According to this airflow path configuration, the heated outside air is guided toward the continuous recording paper S. A portion of the heated outside air that has passed through the continuous recording paper S flows into the return duct 305d through the inlet 311c. A portion of the heated outside air that flows into the return duct 305d is exhausted from the exhaust opening 308 located below, and the remainder is guided toward the fan 304 through the return opening 311d located above.

[0037] <Measurement target and installation location of temperature sensor 303> The temperature sensor 303 is provided in the induction duct 305c that constitutes a part of the frame body 310. According to such an arrangement, the measurement target of the temperature sensor 303 is the induction duct 305c. If the temperature of the induction duct 305c rises, the temperature of the frame body 310 also rises. If the temperature of the frame body 310 rises, the temperature of the fan 304 also rises. If the temperature of the fan 304 rises, the temperature of the fan 304 may exceed the heat resistance temperature. For example, if the detection result of the temperature sensor 303 changes from 60°C to 80°C, the temperature of the frame body 310 may also rise, and the temperature of the fan 304 may also rise. Therefore, the temperature of the induction duct 305c being equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature may be a trigger for increasing the amount of outside air flowing into the fan 304.

[0038] The temperature sensor 303 may be provided in the fan 304. According to such an arrangement, the object of measurement of the temperature sensor 303 is the temperature of the fan 304. Thus, the temperature of the fan 304 can be detected. Thus, the fact that the temperature of the fan 304 is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature can be a trigger for increasing the amount of outside air flowing into the fan 304. The temperature sensor 303 may also be provided in the heating duct 305b constituting a part of the frame body 310. According to such an arrangement, the object of measurement of the temperature sensor 303 is the heating duct 305b. Thus, the temperature of the heating duct 305b can be detected. Thus, the fact that the temperature of the heating duct 305b is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature can be a trigger for increasing the amount of outside air flowing into the fan 304.

[0039] In other words, the object to be measured by the temperature sensor 303 may be anything whose temperature changes in response to the heated outside air. Therefore, the temperature sensor 303 may be provided inside the drying module A120. In addition, since the material of the frame body 310 is metal, the object to be measured by the temperature sensor 303 may be a part of the frame body 310. The temperature of the frame body 310 being equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature may be a trigger for increasing the amount of outside air flowing into the fan 304.

[0040] In short, the heater module 302 and the fan 304 are provided in the air passage formed by the frame body 310. The heated outside air heated by the heater module 302 is blown onto the continuous recording paper S on the recording paper transport path P through the nozzle part 306 as shown in the hot air circulation path 500 indicated by the thick solid line in FIG. 3(b). The frame body 310 is provided with an intake port 307 for introducing outside air and an exhaust port 308 for exhausting a desired amount of air with increased humidity after being used to dry media such as the continuous recording paper S. The configurations of the drying module B130, the drying module C140, and the drying module D150 are the same as the configuration of the drying module A120, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted. When no particular distinction is made between the drying module A120, the drying module B130, the drying module C140, and the drying module D150, they will be referred to as drying modules as appropriate.

[0041] <Flow of taken-in outside air> The hot air circulation path 500 will be described with reference to FIG. 3(b). The hot air circulation path 500 is a part of the air passage formed by the hollow structure of the frame body 310. The hot air circulation path 500 circulates a part of the heated outside air in the order of the downstream side of the intake duct 305a, the heating duct 305b, the induction duct 305c, and the return duct 305d. There are the following reasons for adopting the hot air circulation method using the hot air circulation path 500. One is to effectively utilize the thermal energy acting on the air from the heater module 302. The other is to shorten the start-up time until the desired temperature is reached when the recording device 1 is started to be used. The outside air 500a sucked in from the intake port 307 is drawn in by the fan 304. A part 500b of the heated outside air after drying is exhausted to the outside of the frame body 310 from the exhaust port 308. The heated outside air 500c that is not exhausted is sucked in again by the fan 304 and circulated.

[0042] FIG. 3(c) is a cross-sectional view of line IIIc-IIIC along the transport direction of the continuous recording paper S in FIG. 3(b). Drying module A120, drying module B130, drying module C140, and drying module D150 are arranged in line along the transport direction. That is, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3(c), a plurality of drying modules may be arranged along the transport direction of the continuous recording paper S. Backup rollers 309a to 309e are arranged on the opposing sides sandwiching the continuous recording paper S. Each of the backup rollers 309a to 309e supports the back surface of the continuous recording paper S so that the continuous recording paper S does not move too far away from each drying module when hot air is applied. The number of drying modules is not particularly limited. If the number of drying modules is multiple, it is possible to dry the continuous recording paper S faster and improve productivity compared to a configuration with one drying module.

[0043] <Cooling module A160 configuration> <Outline configuration> FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the cooling module A160. FIG. 4(a) is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the cooling module A160. The cooling module A160 has a fan 401 and a fan 402. The cooling control unit 227 controls the rotation speed of the fan 401 and the fan 402. Each of the fan 401 and the fan 402 is provided with an encoder (not shown) or a detection unit that detects lock (rotation failure). The encoder can detect the amount of rotation of each of the fan 401 and the fan 402. The detection unit can detect whether each of the fan 401 and the fan 402 is locked. Therefore, the cooling control unit 227 can determine whether the fan 401 and the fan 402 are rotating normally.

[0044] <Cooling module A160 configuration> <Configuration for taking in outside air> FIG. 4(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cooling module A160 along the recording paper width direction, as viewed from the upstream side of the paper transport direction. In FIG. 4(b), the direction from the front surface of the paper to the back surface of the paper is the transport direction of the continuous recording paper S. In FIG. 4(b), the left side of the paper is the front direction of the recording device 1. The cooling module A160 is composed of a duct 403. The material of the duct 403 is, for example, metal. The duct 403 may be formed, for example, by cutting, or may be assembled by welding parts formed partially by pressing, or may be molded by a 3D printer. The material of the duct 403 is not limited to metal.

[0045] The duct 403 has an intake air passage that takes in outside air, and an exhaust air passage provided below the intake air passage. Between the intake air passage and the exhaust air passage, a through hole 411a and a through hole 411b are provided. A fan 401 is provided in the through hole 411a. Each of the fan 401 and the fan 402 is an axial flow fan. A fan 402 is provided in the through hole 411b. A plurality of air outlets 404 are provided at regular intervals on the lower surface of the exhaust air passage. Each air outlet 404 is provided at a position facing the recording paper transport path P along which the continuous recording paper S is transported. With this configuration, the rotation of the fan 401 and the fan 402 causes the outside air to flow in the direction of the arrow 510, and the sent outside air is blown from the plurality of air outlets 404 to one side of the continuous recording paper S, for example, the printing side. Therefore, the continuous recording paper S can be cooled by the outside air.

[0046] <Operation principle> 5 is a cross-sectional view of the drying module A120. A process of suppressing the temperature rise of the drying module A120 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. The flow rate of air blown by the fan 304 is Q [m 3 The outside air taken in from the intake port 307 by the rotation of the fan 304 becomes heated outside air by being heated by the heater module 302. The heated outside air moves as hot air along the hot air circulation path 500 in FIG. 5. Then, a flow rate Qout [m 3 / min] of hot air is exhausted. Then, the fan 304 is turned on at a flow rate of Qcir [m 3 / min] of air is returned. Also, the flow rate Qin [m 3 / min] of outside air is mixed with the hot air at a flow rate Qcir. If small pressure losses in the hot air circulation path 500 system are ignored, the flow rate generally follows the following relationship: Q=Qcir+Qin=Qcir+Qout...(Formula 1)

[0047] Here, for example, it is assumed that the hot air temperature of the nozzle portion 306 is 70°C, and the outside air taken in from the intake port 307 is 30°C. According to this assumption, the relationship is: outside air temperature Tout [°C] < hot air temperature Tair [°C]. If the rotation speed of the fan 304 is increased and the flow rate Q is increased by ΔQ under the condition that the output J [kcal / h] of the heater module 302 is not increased, the temperature of the circulating hot air will drop below 70°C. The flow rate change ΔQ required to lower the hot air temperature is calculated simply by the following formula, ignoring the effects of the self-heating of the fan 304 or heat loss in the hot air circulation path 500. ΔQ [m 3 / min]=J[kcal / h] / {(Tair-Tout)[℃]*γ[kg / m 3 ]*Cp[kcal / (kg*℃)]*60[min / h]} ...(Formula 2) However, γ [kg / m 3 ]: specific gravity of air, Cp [kcal / (kg*℃)] indicates the specific heat of air at constant pressure.

[0048] <Temperature profile> In this way, the airflow generated by the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, can suppress the temperature rise of the fan 304 itself. In addition, when the hot air temperature is increased below the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304, the temperature sensor 303 does not necessarily need to be provided on the fan 304. The temperature sensor 303 may be provided on a part of the frame body 310 as described above. In this case, it is sufficient that the temperature profile of the temperature sensor 303 provided on a part of the frame body 310 is created in advance. The temperature of the fan 304 can be predicted based on this temperature profile and the detection result of the temperature sensor 303. Here, the temperature profile is a time series data showing the detection result of the temperature by the temperature sensor 303. Therefore, the temperature of the fan 304 can be predicted from the time series data by a statistical method such as regression analysis. For example, if the measurement target of the temperature sensor 303 is the induction duct 305c, it is sufficient to create a temperature profile of the correspondence between the time series data of the temperature change of the induction duct 305c and the time series data of the temperature change of the fan 304. As a result, based on the detection result of the temperature sensor 303 and the temperature profile, each time series data is interpolated by statistical processing, so that the current temperature of the fan 304 can be predicted. Also, for example, if the measurement target of the temperature sensor 303 is the heating duct 305b, a temperature profile of the correspondence between the time series data of the temperature change of the heating duct 305b and the time series data of the temperature change of the fan 304 may be created. As a result, based on the detection result of the temperature sensor 303 and the temperature profile, each time series data is interpolated by statistical processing, so that the current temperature of the fan 304 can be predicted. That is, as long as the temperature profile is used, the measurement target of the temperature sensor 303 may be any part of the frame body 310. For example, if the temperature sensor 303 is provided in the induction duct 305c of the frame body 310, the temperature of the induction duct 305c detected by the temperature sensor 303 can be used as the temperature of the fan 304. Moreover, if the hot air temperature falls below a desired range, the output of the heater module 302 can be increased through feedback control, thereby raising the hot air temperature again.Here, falling below the desired range means falling below the temperature necessary to evaporate the liquid components of the ink that constitutes the image formed on the continuous recording paper S. Here, the necessary temperature, as described above, is, for example, the target temperature inside the drying module A120. Taking this into consideration, an example of the operation of the temperature rise suppression process will be described.

[0049] <Example of operation> Fig. 6 is a flowchart explaining the temperature rise suppression process. This is realized by CPU 220 reading into RAM and executing a program for implementing each control module stored in ROM 222. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in Fig. 6 may be realized by hardware such as ASIC or electronic circuits. The symbol "S" in the explanation of each process indicates that it is a step in the flowchart.

[0050] The flowchart of FIG. 6 is started by the CPU 220 sending a control command to the drying control unit 226. Specifically, this process is started when a control command is sent to each of the drying module A120, the drying module B130, the drying module C140, and the drying module D150 to start the temperature rise suppression process. Therefore, this process is premised on at least the recording process being performed by the recording unit 106. Note that the trigger for starting the process of the flowchart of FIG. 6 is not limited to the above example. For example, the drying control unit 226 may start the process of the flowchart of FIG. 6 when the CPU 220 determines that the recording device 1 has already been operating for a certain period of time and that heat is building up inside the recording device 1.

[0051] In S601, the drying control unit 226 starts driving the hot air circulation fan. Here, the hot air circulation fan is the fan 304. In S602, the drying control unit 226 sets the heater module 302 to the ON state. Here, the ON state indicates that the heater module 302 has become stable at a predetermined temperature after a start-up period has elapsed since the heater module 302 was powered on. In S603, the drying control unit 226 starts hot air temperature adjustment. Here, the hot air temperature adjustment means that the drying control unit 226 rotates the fan 304 while keeping the heater module 302 in the ON state, and performs monitoring control based on the detection result of the temperature sensor 303. Here, the monitoring control means performing either one of the following processes based on the detection result of the temperature sensor 303 (S604): increasing the number of rotations of the hot air circulation fan (S607) and increasing or decreasing the output of the hot air heater (S606, S609, S610). During monitoring, an error notification is also performed as appropriate (S606, S611, S612, S613). Note that the contents of the error notification are displayed on a display unit (not shown) of the recording device 1, for example.

[0052] In S604, the drying control unit 226 determines whether the temperature of the hot air circulation fan has reached the limit temperature. The limit temperature is the upper limit of the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304, for example, 80° C. If it is determined that the temperature of the hot air circulation fan has reached the limit temperature, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S606. If it is determined that the temperature of the hot air circulation fan has not reached the limit temperature, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S605.

[0053] <Control of Fan 304> In S606, the drying control unit 226 judges whether the rotation speed of the hot air circulation fan is at the upper limit. If it is judged that the rotation speed of the hot air circulation fan is at the upper limit, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S612. If it is judged that the rotation speed of the hot air circulation fan is not at the upper limit, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S607. In S607, the drying control unit 226 increases the rotation speed of the hot air circulation fan and returns to S604. On the other hand, in S612, the drying control unit 226 issues a hot air circulation fan high temperature error notification and proceeds to S615. In S615, the drying control unit 226 ends the hot air temperature adjustment and proceeds to S616. In S616, the drying control unit 226 turns the heater module 302 to the OFF state and proceeds to S617. In S617, the drying control unit 226 stops driving the hot air circulation fan and ends the process.

[0054] <Control of Heater Module 302> In S605, the drying control unit 226 judges whether the hot air temperature Tair [°C] is the target temperature Tta [°C]. Here, the target temperature Tta is the above-mentioned target temperature. That is, it is the target temperature inside the drying module A120. Specifically, the processes of S605, S606, S609, S610, and S611 are processes in which the drying control unit 226 controls the DUTY ratio of the heater module 302 so that the temperature of the object to be measured by the temperature sensor 303 reaches the target temperature. When it is judged that the hot air temperature Tair [°C] is the target temperature Tta [°C], the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S614. Proceeding to the process of S614 means that the hot air temperature Tair [°C] has reached the target temperature Tta [°C]. Therefore, it is possible to suppress power consumption by judging whether to continue the processes of S605, S606, S609, S610, and S611 as they are. In the process of S614, if there is an apparatus stop instruction, the drying control unit 226 does not continue the processes of S605, S606, S609, S610, and S611. That is, the drying control unit 226 monitors the judgment result of S605, and it is possible to suppress the power consumption of the heater module 302. Here, the trigger of the apparatus stop instruction may be, for example, the end of conveyance of the continuous recording paper S on which an image has been formed. Alternatively, it may be the state in which the hot air temperature Tair [°C] has reached the target temperature Tta [°C] for a predetermined time, that is, the state in which the hot air temperature Tair [°C] does not fall below the target temperature Tta [°C]. Alternatively, it may be the transition of the recording device 1 to a shutdown mode.

[0055] In S614, the drying control unit 226 judges whether or not there is an apparatus stop instruction. If it is judged that there is an apparatus stop instruction, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S615. If it is judged that there is no apparatus stop instruction, the drying control unit 226 returns to S604. On the other hand, if it is judged that the hot air temperature Tair [°C] is not the target temperature Tta [°C] in S605, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S606. In S606, the drying control unit 226 judges whether or not the hot air temperature Tair [°C] is less than the target temperature Tta [°C]. If it is judged that the hot air temperature Tair [°C] is less than the target temperature Tta [°C], the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S609. In S609, the drying control unit 226 increases the output of the hot air heater and proceeds to S611. If it is judged that the hot air temperature Tair [°C] is not less than the target temperature Tta [°C], the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S610. In S610, the drying control unit 226 reduces the output of the hot air heater and proceeds to S611. In S611, the drying control unit 226 judges whether the number of temperature adjustment controls is N or more. Here, N is, for example, 10 times, but is not particularly limited. The purpose of this judgment is to extract the possibility of a malfunction in the hot air heater, since there is a possibility that there is a malfunction in the hot air heater if the hot air temperature Tair [°C] does not become the target temperature Tta [°C] even if an instruction to change the output of the hot air heater is issued. If it is judged that the number of temperature adjustment controls is N or more, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S613. In S613, the drying control unit 226 notifies a temperature adjustment error and proceeds to S615. On the other hand, if it is judged that the number of temperature adjustment controls is not N or more, the drying control unit 226 returns to S604.

[0056] <Advantages of the First Embodiment> With the above configuration, even when it is assumed that the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, is increased, the air volume of the fan 304 itself is controlled, and the ventilation rate in the drying module A120 is increased. With this operation, it is possible to control the fan 304 so that it does not reach its own heat resistance temperature. Therefore, it is possible to control the hot air temperature to be increased to or above the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304 while taking into account the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304. Also, if the ventilation rate is increased, the hot air temperature decreases. Therefore, when the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304 is taken into account, the productivity of the recording device 1 may decrease due to the decrease in the hot air temperature. That is, the consideration of the heat resistance temperature of various parts such as the bearing part that supports the shaft part of the fan 304 and the increase in the hot air temperature are trade-offs in terms of the productivity of the recording device 1. Therefore, the heater module 302 is used to perform feedback control of the hot air temperature. With this operation, the hot air temperature can be increased as much as possible, and the productivity of the drying section 108 can be maintained high. In this embodiment, the temperature of the hot air flowing through the induction duct 305c, which is a part of the components of the hot air circulation path 500, is detected by the temperature sensor 303, and the temperature of the fan 304 can be predicted based on the detection result and the temperature profile. The temperature of the fan 304 may be directly grasped by adding a temperature measuring means such as a thermistor to the fan 304 itself. Alternatively, the temperature of the hot air flowing through the heating duct 305b may be detected by a temperature sensor, and the temperature of the fan 304 may be predicted based on the detection result and the temperature profile. In addition, when hot air is continuously supplied to the continuous recording paper S, the temperature of the hot air circulation path 500 increases, and the temperature of the control board and the motor (not shown) that rotates the fan 304 also increases. Here, if the configuration is such that control is not performed to increase the amount of outside air flowing into the fan 304 as in this embodiment, it is necessary to provide multiple blowers with a structure that isolates the control board and the motor (not shown) that rotates the fan 304 from the hot air circulation path 500. Such a blower further requires auxiliary equipment such as piping to be connected to the main body of the apparatus, and the overall apparatus becomes larger in size compared to the case where the fan 304 is provided as in this embodiment.In contrast, in this embodiment, there is no need to provide such a blower by performing control to increase the amount of outside air flowing into the fan 304. Therefore, it is also possible to reduce the size of the entire device.

[0057] <<Second embodiment>> Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the overall configuration of the recording device 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore the first embodiment is used as the reference, and the same configuration as that of the first embodiment is given the same reference numerals in the drawings and the description is omitted as appropriate. In the first embodiment, when the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, rises and the temperature of the fan 304 approaches the limit temperature, the recording device is configured to increase the rotation speed of the fan 304 to increase the amount of intake of outside air and to control the temperature of the fan 304 itself to be lowered. In contrast, in this embodiment, a configuration is provided to further take in outside air at the intake port 307, and when the temperature of the fan 304 rises, the control to lower the temperature of the fan 304 using the configuration provided at the intake port 307 to further take in outside air will be described.

[0058] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the drying module A120. As shown in FIG. 7, a ventilation fan 321 is further provided at the intake port 307. The flow rate of air blown by the fan 304 is Q[m 3 The hot air, which is the heated outside air, moves along the hot air circulation path 500 in FIG. 3 / min] of hot air is exhausted. The fan 304 is driven at a flow rate of Qcir [m 3 / min] of hot air is returned. Also, the flow rate Qin [m 3 / min] of outside air is mixed with the hot air at a flow rate Qcir. As a result, if small losses in the hot air circulation path 500 system are ignored, the flow rates generally have the relationship of (Equation 1) as in the first embodiment.

[0059] With this configuration, even if the amount of intake of outside air is increased by the ventilation fan 321 without changing the flow rate Q of the fan 304, which is the blowing means, it is possible to suppress the temperature rise of the fan 304. In addition, even if the flow rates of the fan 304 and the ventilation fan 321 are changed together, it is possible to suppress the temperature rise of the fan 304. And, in the case where the hot air temperature is increased below the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304 to increase the drying efficiency, the temperature sensor 303 is not necessarily provided on the fan 304 as in the first embodiment. For example, the temperature of the fan 304 can be predicted based on the temperature profile and the detection result of the temperature sensor 303. When the hot air temperature falls below the desired range, the output of the heater module 302 is increased by feedback control to increase the hot air temperature again.

[0060] Fig. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the temperature rise suppression process. Only the differences from the flowchart in Fig. 6 will be explained. In S801, the drying control unit 226 starts driving the hot air circulation fan and the ventilation fan 321. In S804, the drying control unit 226 judges whether or not the temperature of the hot air circulation fan has reached the limit temperature. If it is judged that the temperature of the hot air circulation fan has reached the limit temperature, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S806. If it is judged that the temperature of the hot air circulation fan has not reached the limit temperature, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S805.

[0061] <Control of ventilation fan 321> In S806, the drying control unit 226 judges whether the number of revolutions of the ventilation fan 321 is at the upper limit. If it is judged that the number of revolutions of the ventilation fan 321 is at the upper limit, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S812. If it is judged that the number of revolutions of the ventilation fan 321 is not at the upper limit, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S807. In S807, the drying control unit 226 increases the number of revolutions of the ventilation fan 321, and returns to S804. On the other hand, in S812, the drying control unit 226 issues a hot air circulation fan high temperature error notification, and proceeds to S815. In S815, the drying control unit 226 ends the hot air temperature adjustment, and proceeds to S816. In S816, the drying control unit 226 turns the heater module 302 to the OFF state, and proceeds to S817. In S817, the drying control unit 226 stops driving the hot air circulation fan and the ventilation fan 321, and ends the process.

[0062] <Effects of the second embodiment> With the above configuration, even if it is assumed that the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, has risen, the air volume of the ventilation fan 321 is controlled to increase the ventilation rate in the drying module A120. Even with such an operation, the temperature of the fan 304 can be controlled so as not to reach its own heat resistance temperature. Therefore, while taking into account the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304, it is also possible to control the hot air temperature to be increased to or above the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304.

[0063] <<Third embodiment>> Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the following description, the overall configuration of the recording device 1 is the same as that of the first and second embodiments, and therefore these are to be used as reference. The same reference numerals are given to the same configuration as the first and second embodiments in the drawings, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. In the first embodiment, when the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, rises and the temperature of the fan 304 approaches the limit temperature, the recording device is configured to increase the rotation speed of the fan 304 to increase the amount of intake of outside air and to control the temperature of the fan 304 itself to be lowered. In the second embodiment, when the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, rises and the temperature of the fan 304 approaches the limit temperature, the recording device is configured to increase the rotation speed of the ventilation fan 321 to increase the amount of intake of outside air and to control the temperature of the fan 304 to be lowered. In contrast, in this embodiment, a configuration for further discharging heated outside air is provided in the exhaust port 308, and a control for lowering the temperature of the fan 304 using the configuration for further discharging heated outside air provided in the exhaust port 308 when the temperature of the fan 304 rises will be described.

[0064] 9 is a cross-sectional view of the drying module A120. As shown in FIG. 9, an exhaust fan 322 is further provided at the exhaust port 308. The flow rate of air blown by the fan 304 is Q[m 3 / min]. The heated outside air, that is, the warm air, moves along the warm air circulation path 500 in FIG. 9. The flow rate Qout [m 3 / min] of hot air is exhausted. The fan 304 is driven at a flow rate of Qcir [m 3 / min] of hot air is returned. Also, the flow rate Qin [m 3 / min] of outside air is mixed with the hot air at a flow rate Qcir. As a result, if small losses in the hot air circulation path 500 system are ignored, the flow rates generally have the relationship of (Equation 1) as in the first embodiment.

[0065] With this configuration, even if the amount of intake of outside air is indirectly increased by the exhaust fan 322 without changing the flow rate Q of the fan 304, which is the blowing means, it is possible to suppress the temperature rise of the fan 304. In addition, even if the flow rates of the fan 304 and the exhaust fan 322 are changed together, it is possible to suppress the temperature rise of the fan 304. And, in the case where the hot air temperature is increased below the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304 to improve the drying efficiency, the temperature sensor 303 is not necessarily provided on the fan 304 as in the first embodiment. For example, the temperature of the fan 304 can be predicted based on the temperature profile and the detection result of the temperature sensor 303. When the hot air temperature falls below the desired range, the output of the heater module 302 is increased by feedback control to increase the hot air temperature again.

[0066] Fig. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the temperature rise suppression process. Only the differences from the flowchart in Fig. 6 will be explained. In S1001, the drying control unit 226 starts driving the hot air circulation fan and the exhaust fan 322. In S1004, the drying control unit 226 judges whether or not the temperature of the hot air circulation fan has reached the limit temperature. If it is judged that the temperature of the hot air circulation fan has reached the limit temperature, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S1006. If it is judged that the temperature of the hot air circulation fan has not reached the limit temperature, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S1005.

[0067] <Control of exhaust fan 322> In S1006, the drying control unit 226 judges whether the rotation speed of the exhaust fan 322 is at the upper limit. If it is judged that the rotation speed of the exhaust fan 322 is at the upper limit, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S1012. If it is judged that the rotation speed of the exhaust fan 322 is not at the upper limit, the drying control unit 226 proceeds to S1007. In S1007, the drying control unit 226 increases the rotation speed of the exhaust fan 322 and returns to S1004. On the other hand, in S1012, the drying control unit 226 issues a hot air circulation fan high temperature error notification and proceeds to S1015. In S1015, the drying control unit 226 ends the hot air temperature adjustment and proceeds to S1016. In S1016, the drying control unit 226 turns the heater module 302 to the OFF state and proceeds to S1017. In S1017, the drying control unit 226 stops driving the hot air circulation fan and the exhaust fan 322 and ends the process.

[0068] <Effects of the third embodiment> With the above configuration, even if it is assumed that the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, has risen, the air volume of the exhaust fan 322 is controlled, and the ventilation rate in the drying module A120 is indirectly increased. Even with such an operation, the temperature of the fan 304 can be controlled so as not to reach its own heat resistance temperature. Therefore, while taking into account the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304, it is also possible to control the hot air temperature to be increased to or above the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304.

[0069] <<Fourth embodiment>> Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the following description, the overall configuration of the recording device 1 is the same as that of the first to third embodiments, and therefore these are to be used as reference, and the same components as those of the first to third embodiments are given the same reference numerals in the drawings and will not be described as appropriate. In the first embodiment, when the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, rises and the temperature of the fan 304 approaches the limit temperature, the recording device is configured to increase the number of revolutions of the fan 304 to increase the amount of intake of outside air and to control the temperature of the fan 304 itself to be lowered. In the second embodiment, when the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, rises and the temperature of the fan 304 approaches the limit temperature, the recording device is configured to increase the number of revolutions of the ventilation fan 321 to increase the amount of intake of outside air and to control the temperature of the fan 304 to be lowered. In the third embodiment, the recording device is configured to control the temperature of the fan 304 itself to be lowered. In the second embodiment, the recording apparatus is configured to control the amount of intake of outside air by increasing the rotation speed of the exhaust fan 322 when the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, rises and approaches the limit temperature, thereby lowering the temperature of the fan 304. In contrast, in the present embodiment, a ventilation amount control configuration will be described in which a valve means is provided in the intake duct 305a and the amount of inflow of outside air is controlled.

[0070] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the drying module A120. FIG. 11(a) is a diagram showing an example in which a butterfly valve 312 is provided as a valve means in the intake duct 305a. The butterfly valve 312 has a function of controlling the pressure loss in the intake duct 305a by adjusting the opening degree of the opening cross-sectional area of ​​the ventilation passage formed by the intake duct 305a, and controlling the ventilation volume. The butterfly valve 312 can be rotated at a desired angle by a driving means (such as a stepping motor) (not shown) provided at the rotation center 312a. In FIG. 11(a), the opening degree of the butterfly valve 312 is 0% in the initial state. Before the temperature rise of the fan 304 reaches the limit temperature, the opening degree of the opening cross-sectional area of ​​the ventilation passage formed by the intake duct 305a is adjusted by increasing the opening degree of the butterfly valve 312. This operation reduces the pressure loss in the intake duct 305a and increases the intake volume of outside air, i.e., the ventilation volume. This makes it possible to suppress a rise in temperature of fan 304. Note that, as for the operation of this mode, the control relating to fan 304, ventilation fan 321, and exhaust fan 322 in the first to third embodiments is merely replaced with the adjustment of the opening degree of butterfly valve 312, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0071] FIG. 11(b) is a diagram showing an example in which a sliding valve 313 is provided as a valve means in the intake duct 305a. The valve 313 has a function of controlling the pressure loss in the intake duct 305a by adjusting the opening degree of the opening cross-sectional area of ​​the ventilation passage formed by the intake duct 305a, and controlling the ventilation volume. The valve 313 slides in the vertical direction of the paper surface of FIG. 11 to control the pressure loss in the intake duct 305a. The valve 313 is configured to slide as a mechanism such as a cam or a rack and pinion moves by a driving means (not shown). In FIG. 11(b), the opening degree of the valve 313 is 0% in the initial state. Before the temperature rise of the fan 304 reaches the limit temperature, the opening degree of the opening cross-sectional area of ​​the ventilation passage formed by the intake duct 305a is adjusted by increasing the opening degree of the valve 313. This operation can reduce the pressure loss in the intake duct 305a and increase the ventilation volume. This makes it possible to suppress a rise in temperature of fan 304. Note that, as for the operation of this mode, the control related to fan 304, ventilation fan 321, and exhaust fan 322 in the first to third embodiments is merely replaced with adjustment of the opening degree of valve 313, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0072] <Effects of the Fourth Embodiment> With the above configuration, even if it is assumed that the temperature of the fan 304, which is the air blowing means, has risen, the amount of outside air flowing into the fan 304 is controlled by the valve means, and the ventilation rate within the drying module A120 is increased. Even with this operation, the temperature of the fan 304 can be controlled so as not to reach its own heat resistance temperature. Therefore, while taking into account the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304, it is also possible to control the hot air temperature to be increased to or above the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304.

[0073] <<Fifth embodiment>> Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. In the following description, the overall configuration of the recording device 1 is the same as that of the first to fourth embodiments, and therefore these are to be used as reference. The same components as those of the first to fourth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0074] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the drying module A120. As shown in FIG. 12, a heat exchanger 314 is further provided at the intake port 307. The heat exchanger 314 has a function of further lowering the temperature of the outside air taken in from the intake port 307. Therefore, since the temperature of the outside air that has passed through the heat exchanger 314 is further lowered, it is effective in suppressing the temperature rise of the fan 304. Specifically, from (Equation 2) in the first embodiment, since it is synonymous with lowering the outside air temperature Tout by the heat exchanger 314, it is possible to reduce the flow rate change ΔQ required to lower the temperature of the fan 304. In this configuration, even if the duty of the fan 304 is already high and there is little room to increase the ventilation volume by increasing the rotation speed, the following operation is possible. That is, it is possible to suppress the temperature rise of the fan 304 by reducing the outside air temperature Tout by the heat exchanger 314 and controlling the flow rate of the outside air taken in by the fan 304. In addition, the same effect can be obtained by combining the ventilation fan 321 of the second embodiment, the exhaust fan 322 of the third embodiment, and the heat exchanger 314 of this embodiment.

[0075] <Effects of the Fifth Embodiment> With the above configuration, the hot air circulation paths 500 of the drying modules A120, B130, C140, and D150 of the drying section 108 are also as follows. That is, outside air whose temperature is lower than the hot air temperature based on the detection result of the temperature sensor 303 is taken in. With this operation, the temperature of the fan 304 can be controlled so as not to reach its own heat resistance temperature. Therefore, it is also possible to control the hot air temperature to be increased to or above the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304, taking into account the heat resistance temperature of the fan 304.

[0076] <<Other embodiments>> In each of the above-described embodiments, the explanation has been given based on an example in which the cooling unit 111 is provided subsequent to the drying unit 108. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. A decurling unit that reduces warping of the continuous recording paper may be provided between the drying unit 108 and the cooling unit 111. Also, in each of the embodiments, the explanation has been given based on a configuration example assuming single-sided printing, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, a reversing unit that reverses the continuous recording paper may be provided on the recording paper transport path P. Such a reversing unit can reverse the continuous recording paper, making double-sided printing possible.

[0077] Also, in each embodiment, the explanation is based on an example in which the fan 304 is configured as an axial fan. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. The fan 304 may be configured as a sirocco fan. Specifically, if the fan 304 is configured as an axial fan as in each embodiment, the frame body 310 is configured to generate wind in the direction of the rotation axis of the fan 304. Therefore, there is a restriction on the arrangement configuration that the positive pressure side of the fan 304 and the heater module 302 are arranged to face each other. In contrast, if the fan 304 is configured as a sirocco fan, the sirocco fan generates a swirling flow in a direction perpendicular to its rotation axis and rectifies the swirling flow in one direction. Therefore, the pressure of the blown wind increases. Therefore, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom of the configuration of the frame body 310, and it is also possible to apply a stronger wind. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the size of the frame body 310, and it is also possible to further improve productivity. Specifically, the sirocco fan sucks in air from a runner provided in a cylindrical shape and generates a swirling flow. Therefore, if the intake port 307 is provided on the rotation axis of the sirocco fan, the intake duct 305a and the heating duct 305b can be configured at the same height. In addition, since the sirocco fan generates a swirling flow perpendicular to its rotation axis, it is not necessary to arrange the heater module 302 in the direction of the rotation axis of the sirocco fan. In other words, since the rotation axis of the sirocco fan does not need to face the heater module 302, the degree of freedom of arrangement is also increased. Therefore, the size of the frame body 310 in the height direction can be reduced, and the size of the frame body 310 can also be reduced. In addition, since the sirocco fan can blow out a stronger wind, a higher cooling effect and higher productivity can be achieved.

[0078] In addition, in each embodiment, the description has been given based on an example in which the outside air flows from top to bottom inside the drying unit 108. However, this is not limited to this example. The outside air may flow from bottom to top, or the outside air may flow sideways to bottom.

[0079] The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions.

[0080] The disclosure of this embodiment includes configurations typified by the following recording apparatus examples.

[0081] <Configuration 1> an image forming means for forming an image on a recording sheet; a drying means provided downstream of the image forming means for drying the recording paper on which the image has been formed by the image forming means; A control means for controlling the operation of the drying means; Equipped with The drying means is An intake duct that takes in outside air, A heating unit that heats the outside air taken in by the intake duct; a blower that blows the heated outside air, which is the outside air heated by the heating unit, in a certain direction; an induction duct that guides the heated outside air sent out by the blower toward the recording paper; a return duct that guides a portion of the heated outside air guided from the induction duct toward the blower; A temperature detection unit provided inside the drying means and configured to detect a temperature inside the drying means; having When performing the blowing operation, a part of the heated outside air guided from the return duct and the outside air guided from the intake duct flow into the blower unit, The control means controls the air blowing operation so as to increase the amount of outside air flowing into the air blowing section when the temperature detected by the temperature detection section reaches the upper limit of the heat resistance temperature of the air blowing section.

[0082] <Configuration 2> 2. The recording apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the downstream side of the intake duct is connected to the downstream side of the return duct and the upstream side of the blower.

[0083] <Configuration 3> The drying means is Further comprising a heating duct that accommodates the heating unit and the blower unit, 3. The recording apparatus according to configuration 2, wherein the air blowing section is disposed in the heating duct upstream of the heating section.

[0084] <Configuration 4> The recording apparatus according to configuration 3, wherein the blowing unit circulates a portion of the heated outside air through the downstream side of the intake duct, the heating duct, the induction duct, and the return duct in this order while performing the blowing operation.

[0085] <Component 5> 5. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the drying means is arranged in a plurality of units along a transport direction of the recording paper.

[0086] <Component 6> The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein a measurement target of the temperature detection unit is heated outside air flowing inside the induction duct.

[0087] <Component 7> The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein a measurement target of the temperature detection unit is the air blower unit.

[0088] <Component 8> The recording apparatus according to configuration 3 or 4, wherein a measurement target of the temperature detection unit is the heating duct.

[0089] <Component 9> 6. The recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein a measurement target of the temperature detection unit is the recording paper.

[0090] <Component 10> A measurement target of the temperature detection unit is a frame body constituting the drying means, 6. The recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the material of the frame body is metal.

[0091] <Component 11> The drying means is The air conditioner further includes a ventilation fan provided upstream of the intake duct to take in the outside air, 11. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, wherein the control means controls driving of the ventilation fan when the temperature reaches the upper limit value.

[0092] <Component 12> The drying means is The air intake system further includes an adjusting means for adjusting a flow rate of the outside air, the adjusting means being provided in the air intake duct, 12. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, wherein the control means adjusts the adjustment means when the temperature reaches the upper limit value.

[0093] <Component 13> The drying means is Further, an exhaust fan is provided in the return duct and configured to exhaust another portion of the heated outside air to the outside of the return duct, 13. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 12, wherein the control unit controls an air volume of the exhaust fan when the temperature reaches the upper limit value.

[0094] <Component 14> The drying means is 14. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 13, further comprising a heat exchanger provided upstream of the intake duct and capable of exchanging heat with the outside air.

[0095] <Component 15> 15. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 14, wherein the control means controls the amount of heat generated by the heating section so that the temperature becomes a target temperature inside the drying means.

[0096] <Component 16> 15. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 14, wherein the control means increases or decreases an output of the heating unit so that the temperature becomes a target temperature inside the drying means.

[0097] <Component 17> The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 6 and 8 to 15, wherein the control unit controls the temperature of the air blowing section based on a temperature prediction of the air blowing section based on the temperature detected by the temperature detection section.

[0098] <Component 18> an image forming means for forming an image on a recording sheet; a drying unit provided downstream of the image forming unit and configured to dry the recording paper on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit, controlling the operation of the drying means; The drying means is An intake duct that takes in outside air, A heating unit that heats the outside air taken in by the intake duct; a blower that blows the heated outside air, which is the outside air heated by the heating unit, in a certain direction; an induction duct that guides the heated outside air sent out by the blower toward the recording paper; a return duct that guides a portion of the heated outside air guided from the induction duct toward the blower; A temperature detection unit provided inside the drying means and configured to detect a temperature inside the drying means; having When performing the blowing operation, a part of the heated outside air guided from the return duct and the outside air guided from the intake duct flow into the blower unit, A recording method characterized in that the controlling step includes a step of controlling the air blowing operation so as to increase the amount of the outside air flowing into the air blowing section when the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit reaches an upper limit of the heat resistance temperature of the air blowing section. [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 1 Recording device 106 Recording Section 108 Drying section 101 Control section 302 Heater Module 303 Temperature Sensor 304 Fan 305a Intake duct 305c Induction Duct 305d Return duct

Claims

1. an image forming means for forming an image on a recording sheet; a drying means provided downstream of the image forming means for drying the recording paper on which the image has been formed by the image forming means; A control means for controlling the operation of the drying means; Equipped with The drying means is An intake duct that takes in outside air, A heating unit that heats the outside air taken in by the intake duct; a blower that blows the heated outside air, which is the outside air heated by the heating unit, in a certain direction; an induction duct that guides the heated outside air sent out by the blower toward the recording paper; a return duct that guides a portion of the heated outside air guided from the induction duct toward the blower; A temperature detection unit provided inside the drying means and configured to detect a temperature inside the drying means; having When performing the blowing operation, a part of the heated outside air guided from the return duct and the outside air guided from the intake duct flow into the blower unit, The control means controls the air blowing operation so as to increase the amount of outside air flowing into the air blowing section when the temperature detected by the temperature detection section reaches the upper limit of the heat resistance temperature of the air blowing section.

2. 2. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the downstream side of the intake duct is connected to the downstream side of the return duct and the upstream side of the blower.

3. The drying means is Further comprising a heating duct that accommodates the heating unit and the blower unit, 3. The recording apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the air blowing section is disposed in the heating duct upstream of the heating section.

4. 4. The recording apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the blowing section circulates a portion of the heated outside air through the downstream side of the intake duct, the heating duct, the induction duct, and the return duct in that order while performing the blowing operation.

5. 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the drying means is a plurality of drying means arranged along a transport direction of the recording paper.

6. 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a measurement target of the temperature detection unit is heated outside air flowing inside the induction duct.

7. 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a measurement target of the temperature detection unit is the air blower unit.

8. 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a measurement target of the temperature detection unit is the heating duct.

9. 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a measurement target of the temperature detection unit is the recording paper.

10. A measurement target of the temperature detection unit is a frame body constituting the drying means, 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the frame body is made of a metal.

11. The drying means is The air conditioner further includes a ventilation fan provided upstream of the intake duct to take in the outside air, 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls driving of the ventilation fan when the temperature reaches the upper limit value.

12. The drying means is The air intake system further includes an adjusting means for adjusting a flow rate of the outside air, the adjusting means being provided in the air intake duct, 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means adjusts the adjustment means when the temperature reaches the upper limit value.

13. The drying means is Further, an exhaust fan is provided in the return duct and configured to exhaust another portion of the heated outside air to the outside of the return duct, 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls an air volume of the exhaust fan when the temperature reaches the upper limit value.

14. The drying means is 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a heat exchanger provided upstream of the intake duct and capable of exchanging heat with the outside air.

15. 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means controls the amount of heat generated by the heating section so that the temperature inside the drying means becomes a target temperature.

16. 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit increases or decreases an output of the heating unit so that the temperature inside the drying unit becomes a target temperature.

17. 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the temperature of the blower unit based on a temperature prediction of the blower unit based on the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit.

18. an image forming means for forming an image on a recording sheet; a drying unit provided downstream of the image forming unit and configured to dry the recording paper on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit, controlling the operation of the drying means; The drying means is An intake duct that takes in outside air, A heating unit that heats the outside air taken in by the intake duct; a blower that blows the heated outside air, which is the outside air heated by the heating unit, in a certain direction; an induction duct that guides the heated outside air sent out by the blower toward the recording paper; a return duct that guides a portion of the heated outside air guided from the induction duct toward the blower; A temperature detection unit provided inside the drying means and configured to detect a temperature inside the drying means; having When performing the blowing operation, a part of the heated outside air guided from the return duct and the outside air guided from the intake duct flow into the blower unit, A recording method characterized in that the controlling step includes a step of controlling the air blowing operation so as to increase the amount of the outside air flowing into the air blowing section when the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit reaches an upper limit of the heat resistance temperature of the air blowing section.

Images