Head maintenance device and device for discharging liquid

Abstract

To suppress a deterioration in maintenance performance.SOLUTION: A head maintenance device includes a suction cap for capping a nozzle surface of a head for discharging liquid, suction means for performing suction inside the suction cap, an openable and closable atmospheric open path leading into the suction cap, and a lid member for closing an opening of the suction cap. The lid member includes a communication hole connection part being a part at which the suction cap comes into contact with the atmospheric open path, a discharge path inlet connecting to the communication hole connection part and being a path through which liquid discharged from the inside of an atmosphere communication path enters, a discharge path outlet being a path through which the liquid entering in the discharge path inlet can pass toward the suction cap, and a connection path being a path connecting the discharge path inlet and the discharge path outlet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a head maintenance device and a device for ejecting liquid. [Background technology]

[0002] Among devices equipped with a head that ejects liquid, there are known those that are equipped with a maintenance device (maintenance and recovery mechanism) that has a suction cap that caps the nozzle surface (ejection surface) of the head in order to maintain and restore (maintain) the condition of the head.

[0003] For example, as shown in Patent Document 1, a suction cap is equipped with a maintenance device connected to a suction flow path that recovers liquid sucked from the nozzle and an atmospheric release path that can introduce air to return the space in the suction cap sealed between the head and the cap to atmospheric pressure.

[0004] Here, in the above-mentioned maintenance device, over time, the liquid sucked from the head may enter the air release path and remain solidified, causing the air release path to become clogged, making it impossible to open to the atmosphere, and thus reducing the maintenance performance. Furthermore, in the above-mentioned maintenance device, the absorbent that absorbs the liquid provided in the suction cap may dry out, increasing the fluid resistance, and when ink is used as the liquid, the discharge path may be blocked by thickened ink. Due to this increase in fluid resistance or blockage caused by thickened ink, the maintenance device may not be able to suck the liquid, and the maintenance performance may be reduced. The above problem can be prevented by abutting a drying prevention cover member (a moisturizing cover member) on the suction cap. However, even in this case, there is a risk that liquid such as ink may adhere to this cover member, and the adhered matter may dry out and block the air release path, thereby reducing the maintenance performance, and this must also be prevented. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] An object of the present invention is to suppress a decrease in maintenance performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention of claim 1 comprises a suction cap for capping a nozzle surface of a head that ejects liquid, a suction means for suctioning inside the suction cap, an openable and closable atmospheric open path leading to the inside of the suction cap, and a lid member for closing the opening of the suction cap, wherein the lid member has a communication hole connection portion which is the part where the suction cap contacts the atmospheric open path, a discharge path inlet which is connected to the communication hole connection portion and is a path through which liquid discharged from inside the atmospheric communication path enters, a discharge path outlet which is a path through which liquid that has entered the discharge path inlet can pass to the suction cap side, and a connection path which is a path connecting the discharge path inlet and the discharge path outlet. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, deterioration of maintenance performance can be suppressed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a head maintenance device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a cover member according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 11A to 11C are diagrams showing a liquid discharging operation according to a comparative example. [Figure 4] 5A to 5C are diagrams showing a liquid discharging operation according to the present invention. [Diagram 5] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a configuration in which a discharge path is formed in a lid member by a film. [Figure 6] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing an embodiment in which a recess is formed in a lid member. [Figure 7] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing an embodiment in which a recess is formed in a part of a lid member. [Figure 8] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing an embodiment in which a recess having an inclined portion is formed in a lid member. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a printing apparatus as an apparatus that ejects liquid. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a portion relating to maintenance control. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0010] In addition, in each drawing for explaining the embodiments of the present invention, components such as parts and components having the same function or shape are given the same symbols as far as possible to distinguish them, and once they have been explained, their explanations will be omitted.

[0011] <About the head maintenance device> FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a head maintenance device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] The head maintenance device 3 has a maintenance unit 300 and a maintenance control means 830 that controls the maintenance operation performed by the maintenance unit 300.

[0013] The maintenance unit 300 includes a suction cap 311 that caps the nozzle surface 112 of the head 101 that ejects liquid. An absorber (cap absorber) 332 is disposed inside the suction cap 311. One example of the absorber (cap absorber) is a sponge, and has a function of absorbing liquid (ink). A suction hole 331a of the suction cap 311 is connected to a discharge path 333, and the discharge path 333 is provided with a suction pump 334 as a suction means for suctioning the inside of the suction cap 311.

[0014] The head maintenance device 3 also includes an atmosphere open path 335 that communicates with the inside of the suction cap 311, and an opening / closing valve 336 is provided in the atmosphere open path 335. The atmosphere open path 335 can be opened and closed by opening and closing the opening / closing valve 336.

[0015] Furthermore, the head maintenance device 3 is equipped with a lid member 337 that closes the opening of the suction cap 311. The lid member 337 is made of a rigid body with a flat surface, and is formed from, for example, resin or sheet metal. The lid member 337 is disposed at the same height as the nozzle surface 112 of the head 101. The lid member 337 has a function of preventing drying (moisture retention).

[0016] Here, the head 101 and the suction cap 311 are relatively movable in the X direction shown in the figure. Similarly, the lid member 337 and the suction cap 311 are relatively movable in the X direction shown in the figure. The head 101 and the lid member 337 may be movable integrally or individually. Furthermore, the head 101, the lid member 337 and the suction cap 311 are relatively movable in the Z direction shown in the figure.

[0017] In this embodiment, the suction cap 311 can be moved back and forth in the X direction by the maintenance unit movement mechanism 320, and can be raised and lowered (advanced and retreated) in the Z direction by the cap advancement and retreat mechanism 325. Note that the head 101 and the lid member 337 can be configured to be reciprocating in the X direction and elevated and lowered in the Z direction, or the suction cap 311 can be moved back and forth in the X direction, and the head 101 and the lid member 337 can be elevated and lowered in the Z direction.

[0018] The maintenance control means 830 drives and controls the maintenance unit moving mechanism 320, the cap advance / retreat mechanism 325, the suction pump 334, and the on-off valve 336, and controls the maintenance operations including the atmospheric release suction operation according to the present invention.

[0019] Here, there will be given an example of the mechanisms of the maintenance unit moving mechanism 320 and the cap advancing / retreating mechanism 325. Note that the example given below is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0020] First, the maintenance unit moving mechanism 320 may be, for example, a mechanism that includes a timing belt looped between motor pulleys of a stepping motor, and connects the timing belt to a connecting member provided at one end of a base member.

[0021] This allows the maintenance unit 300 to be moved in the X direction by driving the stepping motor.

[0022] The cap advance / retract mechanism 325 may have, for example, a cam follower that contacts the suction cap 311, and the cam follower moves along the circumferential surface of a cam that rotates on a shaft rotated by a cap advance / retract motor. This mechanism allows the suction cap 311 to move in the Z direction (up and down, advance and retract).

[0023] <Configuration of the lid member according to the present invention> 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a cover member according to an embodiment of the present invention. Using this diagram, the details of cover member 337 will be explained below.

[0024] 2, the lid member 337 has a lid portion 337f, a communication hole connecting portion 337a, a discharge path inlet 337b, a discharge path outlet 337c, and a connection path 337d. The communication hole connecting portion 337a, the discharge path inlet 337b, the discharge path outlet 337c, and the connection path 337d are formed in the lid portion 337f.

[0025] The communication hole connection part 337a is a part that comes into contact with the communication hole 335a of the atmosphere open path 335. Since this communication hole connection part 337a is a part that comes into contact with the atmosphere open path 335 of the suction cap 311, it is formed of an elastic member to ensure sealing properties. Examples of materials for this elastic member include silicone, fluorine, and nitrile. Since this communication hole connection part 337a is an elastic member, it is possible to tightly contact the atmosphere communication path and the communication hole connection part, thereby ensuring the suction and discharge of liquid.

[0026] Further, the discharge path inlet 337b is connected to the communication hole connector 337a and is a path into which the ink liquid discharged from the atmosphere open path 335 first enters, and its cross section is circular.

[0027] Furthermore, the discharge path outlet 337c is a path through which the ink liquid that has entered the discharge path inlet 337b can pass to the suction cap 311 side, and has a circular cross section. The discharge path outlet 337c can return the liquid (ink) discharged from the atmosphere open path 335 through the discharge path inlet 337b to the suction cap 311 side. The discharge path outlet 337c comes into contact with the absorber 332.

[0028] The connection path 337d is a path that connects the discharge path inlet 337b and the discharge path outlet 337c. The connection path 337d is a tube made of a material such as silicone or elastomer, and connects the discharge path inlet 337b and the discharge path outlet 337c. Note that the connection path 337d is desirably made of a material with high gas barrier properties to prevent the ink from thickening due to drying caused by moisture inside passing through this path.

[0029] Here, gas barrier properties are generally known and refer to the ability of a material such as a film to block gas, and are expressed as gas transmission rate (GTR). Note that a material with high gas barrier properties is one that allows little gas to permeate, and the measurement of gas barrier properties is a measure of the degree to which gas permeates the film.

[0030] Moreover, the connection path 337d has a circular cross section, and the size of the inner diameter thereof is larger than the inner diameter of the discharge path inlet 337b and the inner diameter of the discharge path outlet 337c.

[0031] The path formed by the communication hole connection portion 337a, the discharge path inlet 337b, the discharge path outlet 337c, and the connection path 337d may be referred to as a "cover member discharge path."

[0032] <Regarding the ejection operation according to the comparative example> Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the liquid discharge operation in the comparative example. Using this figure, we will explain how ink, which is the liquid that has flowed into the air open path in the comparative example, is discharged by a suction pump. Note that, since the configuration is the same except for the flow of ink, only Fig. 3(a) is shown in Fig. 3 and the rest are omitted.

[0033] Here, FIG. 3 shows a configuration in which the suction cap 311 and a lid member 1337 for preventing drying (for retaining moisture) are in contact with each other. Before explaining the liquid discharge operation shown in FIG. 3, we will explain the issues that arise when the lid member 1337 is not provided.

[0034] First, when the suction pump is operating and negative pressure is building up in the atmosphere-open state inside the suction cap, ink does not enter the atmosphere-open passage. However, when the suction pump stops, the space inside the atmosphere-open passage returns to atmospheric pressure, and ink begins to flow into the atmosphere-open passage from the suction cap side.

[0035] When the pressure is low, the amount of ink flowing in is small, and the ink in the atmospheric open path can be easily discharged by opening the on-off valve and driving the suction pump (opening to the atmosphere and suction). However, when the pressure is high, a considerable amount of ink flows in, so even if the on-off valve is opened and the suction pump is driven (opening to the atmosphere and suction), a small amount of ink remains in the path. If this drive is repeated, the ink will eventually reach the on-off valve, which will hinder the operation of the on-off valve.

[0036] Furthermore, when using highly viscous ink, if the pressure is increased and the suction time is lengthened in order to improve recovery, the above problem occurs more significantly.

[0037] Therefore, as shown in Fig. 3, by providing a cover member 1337 for preventing drying (for retaining moisture), it is possible to prevent the above problem. Fig. 3 shows a state in which the suction cap abuts against the cover member after ink has been sucked and flowed into the atmospheric open path. As shown in this figure, when the suction cap abuts against the cover member, the ink that has flowed into the atmospheric open path can be discharged by performing an ink discharge operation in which the suction pump is driven after the opening / closing valve is opened, and the above problem can be prevented.

[0038] In that case, however, the following problems arise, which will be explained with reference to Figures 3(a) to 3(d).

[0039] 3(a) is a diagram showing a state in which the suction cap 311 is in contact with the cover member 1337 after the ink L has flowed into the atmosphere open path 335. FIG. 3(a) shows the state before the ink L is discharged from the atmosphere open path 335.

[0040] 3(b) is a diagram showing a state when ink L that has flowed into atmosphere open path 335 and remains is discharged. When opening valve 336 and suction pump 334 are driven to discharge ink L, ink L in atmosphere open path 335 flows from atmosphere open path 335 toward cover member 1337. Meanwhile, ink L in atmosphere open path 335 is sprayed toward cover member 1337, causing ink L to adhere to cover member 1337.

[0041] 3(c) shows a case where the ink L adheres to the cover member 1337 in an overlapping manner. FIG. 3(c) shows the state inside the suction cap 311 after the ink has been discharged, with some of the discharged ink L adhering to the cover member 1337. During printing, the cover member 1337 is in an open state, and the ink L adhering to the cover member 1337 dries and becomes thickened. The ink in this thickened state is referred to as thickened ink K.

[0042] After that, when the ink is discharged several times, the thickened ink K adhering to the cover member 1337 reaches (grows large in size) as far as the communication hole 335a of the atmosphere release path 335, as shown in Fig. 3(d). The thickened ink K thus formed clogs the atmosphere release path 335. This blockage prevents the opening of the on-off valve and the driving of the suction pump (opening to the atmosphere and suction), and causes ink to overflow inside the suction cap during the decap operation after suction.

[0043] Therefore, by adjusting the suction speed of the suction pump 334 and lowering the flow rate in the atmosphere open path 335 when the ink is discharged, it is possible to prevent the ink L from adhering to the cover member 1337. However, in that case, the discharge of the ink L is hindered, and a problem occurs in that the discharge operation, which is the original purpose, does not function. Therefore, in order to prevent the ink from adhering to the cover member and ensure the function of the discharge operation at the same time, a different configuration is required.

[0044] <Ejection Operation According to the Present Invention> Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the liquid discharge operation according to the present invention. Using this diagram, we will explain how ink, which is a liquid that has flowed into an air open path in an embodiment according to the present invention, is discharged by a suction pump. Note that, since the configuration is the same except for the flow of ink, only Fig. 4(a) is shown in Fig. 4 and the rest are omitted.

[0045] 4(a) is a diagram showing a state in which the suction cap 311 is in contact with the cover member 337 after ink L has flowed into the atmosphere open path 335 by suction. At this time, the ink L flows into the atmosphere open path 335 and remains in the atmosphere open path 335. Also, the communication hole 335a of the atmosphere open path 335 of the suction cap 311 is in contact with the communication hole connection part 337a. Also, since the communication hole connection part 337a is an elastic member, the communication hole 335a and the communication hole connection part 337a are in close contact with each other.

[0046] 4(b) is a diagram showing a state when ink L that has flowed into atmosphere open path 335 and remained is discharged. When opening / closing valve 336 is opened and suction pump 334 is driven to discharge ink L, ink L in atmosphere open path 335 flows toward discharge path 333. Ink L first flows (passes) from atmosphere open path 335 through a path that communication hole connection part 337a has and discharge path inlet 337b that is connected to communication hole connection part 337a.

[0047] 4(c), the ink L flows from the discharge path inlet 337b through the connection path 337d to the discharge path outlet 337c. When the suction pump 334 is continuously driven in this manner, the ink L in the atmosphere open path 335 is discharged and gradually flows into the cover member discharge path of the cover member 337.

[0048] Furthermore, when the suction pump 334 continues to be driven, the ink L flows from the cover member discharge path into the absorber 332 and discharge path 333 of the suction cap 311, as shown in Fig. 4(d). Fig. 4(d) shows a state in which the ink L soaks into the absorber 332 and enters the absorption hole 331a. The ink L then flows from the cover member discharge path into the discharge path 333, thereby completing the discharge operation of the ink L.

[0049] As a result, the present invention makes it possible to use the suction pump to discharge ink that has flowed into the atmospheric open passage and remains therein. Also, it is possible to prevent ink from adhering to the cover member, which is a cover for preventing ink from drying, and therefore the ink discharge operation can be performed without deterioration of the ink discharge function.

[0050] In addition, in the present invention, the discharge path outlet 337c is brought into contact with the absorber 332 in the suction cap 311. This allows the ink to be discharged directly from the discharge path outlet to the absorber, so that the ink can be efficiently collected. Also, the ink can be prevented from scattering near the discharge path outlet.

[0051] <Configuration in which a discharge path is formed in a lid member by a film> Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration in which a discharge path is formed in a lid member by a film. Fig. 5 differs from the previous embodiments mainly in that the connection path of the lid member discharge path is not formed by a tube, but a groove is provided in the lid member, and a film is attached to the groove to form the connection path. Note that the other points are the same as the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0052] The cover member according to this embodiment is configured such that a groove is provided in cover member 337, and a path forming film 337h is heat-welded to this groove to form a connection path 337d for the cover member discharge path.

[0053] The thickness (size in the Z direction) of the path forming film 337h is desirably set to 0.5 mm or less.

[0054] Examples of the material of the path forming film 337h include polyethylene and nylon.

[0055] It is preferable that the path forming film 337h is made of a material with high gas barrier properties. Since the film has a small thickness, moisture inside the film can easily pass through the film and the film can easily dry. Therefore, the path forming film 337h has the above-mentioned structure in order to prevent this.

[0056] With this configuration, the present invention also makes it possible to use a suction pump to discharge ink that has flowed into the atmospheric open path and remains therein. Also, it is possible to prevent ink from adhering to the cover member, which is a cover for preventing drying, and therefore the ink discharge operation can be performed without a decrease in the ink discharge function. Furthermore, this configuration makes it possible to achieve space saving and miniaturization of the device, compared to, for example, the above-mentioned configuration in which the connection path is formed by a tube.

[0057] <Embodiment in which a recess is formed in a lid member> Next, a further embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an embodiment in which a recess is formed in the lid member. Fig. 6 differs from the previous embodiments mainly in that a recess is formed in the lid member instead of forming a lid member discharge path in the lid member. Note that the other points are the same as the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0058] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 6(a), the cover member 337 has a recess 337m over substantially the entire cover member 337 on the side of the cover member 337 that contacts the suction cap 311. The recess 337m has a rectangular cross section as viewed in the Y direction, such as a cube or a rectangular parallelepiped. The depth d (size in the Z direction) of the recess 337m is about 1 to 5 mm. The depth of the recess here refers to the distance from the portion (surface) of the cover member that contacts the suction cap to the bottom (bottom surface) that forms the recess and extends in the horizontal direction (X direction) of the recess.

[0059] A highly water-repellent material, such as fluororesin, is used for the portion (surface) of the cover member 337 that comes into contact with the suction cap 311 so that the ink L is less likely to adhere to the cover member 337. Note that the present invention may employ a configuration in which a highly water-repellent material is used only for the portion (surface) of the cover member 337 that comes into contact with the suction cap 311, or a configuration in which a water-repellent treatment is applied.

[0060] In the configuration according to this embodiment, by forming the recess 337m in the cover member 337, a sufficient space is secured above the communication hole 335a of the atmosphere open path 335 of the suction cap 311 so that the ink L will not reach there even if the ink L that has flowed in is discharged. In other words, it can be said that the recess 337m has a function of avoiding the ink L discharged from the atmosphere open path 335. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the configuration according to this embodiment can prevent the ink L discharged from the atmosphere open path 335 from adhering to the cover member 337.

[0061] In this embodiment, the recess may have a different shape. For example, the recess 337p shown in Fig. 6(c) has a semicircular cross section, such as a semisphere or semicylinder, as viewed from the Y direction.

[0062] Here, in order to prevent the ink from drying out, it is desirable that the volume of the space formed between the suction cap and the lid member is small. Therefore, when the cross section of the recess viewed from the Y direction is circular, the volume of the space formed between the suction cap and the lid member can be made smaller than when the cross section of the recess viewed from the Y direction is rectangular, for example, as described above, and the effect of preventing the ink from drying out is improved.

[0063] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an embodiment in which a recess is formed in a part of the cover member. The cover member in Fig. 6 has a recess formed over substantially the entire cover member to avoid ink discharged from the atmosphere open path. In contrast, the cover member in Fig. 7 differs from the embodiment in Fig. 6 in that the recess is formed only in the vicinity of the atmosphere open path, which is part of the cover member (only above the atmosphere open path). All other points are the same as the embodiment in Fig. 6 above.

[0064] 7(a), the configuration according to this embodiment has a recess 337n formed in the cover member 337, so that a sufficient space is secured above the communication hole 335a of the atmosphere open path 335 of the suction cap 311 that the ink L will not reach even if the ink L that has flowed in is discharged. In other words, it can be said that the recess 337n has a function of avoiding the ink L discharged from the atmosphere open path 335. As a result, the configuration according to this embodiment can prevent the ink L discharged from the atmosphere open path 335 from adhering to the cover member 337.

[0065] 7(a), the configuration according to this embodiment can reduce the volume of the space formed by the suction cap 311 and the lid member 337 by providing the recess 337n only near (only on) the atmosphere release path 335 of the lid member 337. Therefore, the configuration according to this embodiment can quickly reduce the pressure inside the suction cap 311. Furthermore, the configuration according to this embodiment can reduce the volume of the space, which improves the effect of preventing the ink from drying.

[0066] The shape of the recess 337n may be, for example, a cube or a rectangular parallelepiped such that the cross section viewed from the Y direction is rectangular. Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 7(c), the shape of the recess 337r may be, for example, a hemisphere or a semicylinder such that the cross section viewed from the Y direction is semicircular. When the cross section of the recess 337r viewed from the Y direction is semicircular, the volume of the space formed by the suction cap 311 and the cover member 337 can be made smaller.

[0067] Here, the specific size and position of the recess 337n will be described with reference to Fig. 7(b). Note that this is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this. Also, in Fig. 7(b), the recess 337n will be described with an example of a shape such as a cube or a rectangular parallelepiped whose cross section viewed from the Y direction is rectangular, but the same applies to the recess having a shape as shown in Fig. 7(c).

[0068] First, the depth (size in the Z direction) d of the recess 337n is set to about 1 to 5 mm. The depth of the recess here refers to the distance from the portion (surface) of the lid member that abuts against the suction cap to the bottom (bottom surface) that forms the recess and extends in the horizontal direction (X direction) of the recess.

[0069] The center of the width (size in the X direction) of the recess 337n is set to coincide with the center line 335c of the atmosphere open path 335. The distance w from the center line 335c to the wall portion that forms the recess 337s extending in the up-down direction (Z direction) of the recess 337n is about 3 to 6 mm.

[0070] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an embodiment in which a recess having an inclined portion is formed in the cover member. The cover member in Fig. 6 is formed with a recess for avoiding ink discharged from the air open path. In contrast, the cover member in Fig. 8 differs from the embodiment in Fig. 6 in that the recess has an inclined portion. Note that other points are the same as those of the embodiment in Fig. 6 above.

[0071] The cover member 337 in Fig. 8 is formed with a recess 337s. The recess 337s is provided with an inclined portion α that is inclined so as to approach the suction cap 311 from one end of the cover member 337 to the other end. The inclined portion α is inclined with respect to the X-axis shown in Fig. 8. The recess 337s of the cover member 337 shown in Fig. 8 is provided with an inclined portion α that is closer to the suction cap 311 on the side where the suction hole 331a is located (positive side in the X-direction) than on the side where the communication hole 335a is located (negative side in the X-direction).

[0072] In the configuration according to this embodiment, by forming the recess 337s in the cover member 337, a sufficient space is secured above the communication hole 335a of the atmosphere open path 335 of the suction cap 311 so that the ink L will not reach there even if the ink L that has flowed in is discharged. In other words, it can be said that the recess 337s has a function of avoiding the ink L discharged from the atmosphere open path 335. As a result, the configuration according to this embodiment can prevent the ink L discharged from the atmosphere open path 335 from adhering to the cover member 337.

[0073] In addition, since the recess 337s provided at the upper part of the atmospheric open path 335 of the suction cap 311 has an inclined portion α, even if the ink L adheres to the cover member 337, the ink L will collect on the lower side of the inclined portion α (the side closer to the suction cap 311), and as a result, the ink L will flow toward the suction cap 311.

[0074] Here, the angle θ between the inclined portion α and the wall portion β that forms the recess 337s, which is located on the end side of the air release path 335 of the recess 337s and extends in the vertical direction (Z direction), is preferably about 15 to 30°. If the angle θ is small, the ink L will adhere to the lid member 337, and if the angle θ is large, the strength of the lid member 337 cannot be ensured.

[0075] <Printing devices as devices that eject liquid> Next, a printing apparatus as a liquid ejecting apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a schematic explanatory diagram of the printing apparatus.

[0076] The printing device 1 includes an input section 10 for inputting the sheet material S, a pre-treatment section 20 which is a coating section, a printing section 30, a first drying section 40, a second drying section 50, an inversion mechanism section 60, and an output section 70.

[0077] The printing device 1 applies (coats) a pretreatment liquid as a coating liquid to the sheet material S transported (supplied) from the loading section 10 in the pretreatment section 20 as necessary, and applies the required liquid to the sheet material S in the printing section 30 to perform the required printing.

[0078] Then, the printing device 1 dries the liquid adhering to the sheet material S in the first drying section 40 and the second drying section 50, and then discharges the sheet material S to the discharge section 70 via the inversion mechanism section 60, either as is or after printing on both sides of the sheet material S.

[0079] The loading section 10 includes an input tray 11 (lower input tray 11A, upper input tray 11B) that stores multiple sheet materials S, and a feeding device 12 (12A, 12B) that separates and sends out the sheet materials S one by one from the input tray 11, and supplies the sheet materials S to the pre-processing section 20.

[0080] The pre-treatment section 20 includes, for example, an application section 21 which is a treatment liquid application section that applies a treatment liquid having an effect of agglomerating ink and preventing show-through to the printing surface of the sheet material S.

[0081] The printing unit 30 includes a drum 31, which is a support member (rotating member) that rotates while supporting the sheet material S on its peripheral surface, and a liquid discharge unit 32 that discharges liquid toward the sheet material S supported on the drum 31. The printing unit 30 also includes a transfer cylinder 34 that receives the sheet material S sent from the pre-processing unit 20 and transfers the sheet material S between the drum 31 and the printing unit 30, and a transfer cylinder 35 that receives the sheet material S transported by the drum 31 and transfers it to the first drying unit 40.

[0082] The sheet material S transported from the pre-processing section 20 to the printing section 30 has its leading edge gripped by a gripping means (sheet gripper) provided on the transfer cylinder 34, and is transported as the transfer cylinder 34 rotates. The sheet material S transported by the transfer cylinder 34 is delivered to the drum 31 at a position opposite to the drum 31.

[0083] A gripping means (sheet gripper) is also provided on the surface of the drum 31, and the leading end of the sheet material S is gripped by the gripping means (sheet gripper). A plurality of suction holes are formed in a dispersed manner on the surface of the drum 31, and the suction means generates a suction airflow that flows inward from the required suction holes of the drum 31.

[0084] Then, the sheet material S transferred from the transfer cylinder 34 to the drum 31 has its leading edge gripped by the sheet gripper, and is adsorbed and supported on the drum 31 by the suction airflow of the suction means, and is transported as the drum 31 rotates.

[0085] The liquid discharge section 32 includes discharge units 33 (33A to 33E) which are liquid application means. For example, the discharge unit 33A discharges cyan (C) liquid, the discharge unit 33B discharges magenta (M) liquid, the discharge unit 33C discharges yellow (Y) liquid, and the discharge unit 33D discharges black (K) liquid. The discharge unit 33E is used to discharge other special liquids such as white and gold (silver).

[0086] The ejection unit 33 has, for example, a head array which is a liquid ejection means. The head array includes a full-line type head in which a plurality of heads 101 each having a plurality of nozzle rows in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged on a nozzle surface 112 are arranged in a staggered pattern on a base member. A sub-tank (liquid storage container) for storing liquid to be supplied to each head 101 of the head array is also provided.

[0087] The discharge operation of each discharge unit 33 of the liquid discharge section 32 is controlled by a drive signal corresponding to the printing information. When the sheet material S supported on the drum 31 passes through an area facing the liquid discharge section 32, liquid of each color is discharged from the discharge unit 33, and an image corresponding to the printing information is printed.

[0088] The drying section 40 includes a heating means 42 such as an IR heater, and irradiates infrared rays to heat and dry the sheet material S to which the liquid has been applied and which is being conveyed by a conveying section 41 including a conveyor belt.

[0089] The reversing mechanism 60 includes a reversing section 61 that reverses the sheet material S by a switchback method when performing double-sided printing on the sheet material S that has passed through the drying section 40 and has had liquid applied to one side and been dried, and a double-sided conveying section 62 that sends the reversed sheet material S back upstream of the transfer drum 34 of the printing section 30.

[0090] The discharge section 70 includes a discharge tray 71 on which a plurality of sheet materials S are stacked. The sheet materials S conveyed from the reversing mechanism section 60 are successively stacked and held on the discharge tray 71.

[0091] In this embodiment, the sheet material is described as a cut sheet material, but the present invention can also be applied to devices that use large sheet materials such as wallpaper, continuous bodies such as continuous paper, and web-like sheet materials.

[0092] <Regarding maintenance control> Next, the portion of the printing apparatus relating to maintenance control will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

[0093] The maintenance control means 830 controls the drive of the motor 321 of the maintenance unit moving mechanism 320 to control the movement of the maintenance unit 300 .

[0094] Furthermore, the maintenance control means 830 controls the drive of the motor of the cap advance / retract mechanism 325 to control the advance / retract movement of the suction cap 311 .

[0095] The maintenance control means 830 controls the driving and stopping of the suction pump 334 to control the suction inside the suction cap 311 , and controls the opening and closing of the on-off valve 336 to control the opening and closing of the atmosphere release path 335 .

[0096] In the present application, the liquid to be ejected may have a viscosity and surface tension that allows it to be ejected from the head, and is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that the viscosity of the liquid is 30 mPa·s or less at room temperature and pressure, or by heating or cooling. More specifically, the liquid may be a solution, suspension, emulsion, etc., containing a solvent such as water or an organic solvent, a colorant such as a dye or pigment, a functionalizing material such as a polymerizable compound, a resin, or a surfactant, a biocompatible material such as DNA, amino acids, proteins, or calcium, an edible material such as a natural colorant, etc., and these can be used for applications such as inkjet ink, surface treatment liquid, a liquid for forming a component of an electronic element or a light-emitting element, an electronic circuit resist pattern, a material liquid for three-dimensional modeling, etc.

[0097] Energy sources for ejecting liquid include piezoelectric actuators (laminated piezoelectric elements and thin-film piezoelectric elements), thermal actuators that use electrothermal conversion elements such as heating resistors, and electrostatic actuators consisting of a vibration plate and an opposing electrode.

[0098] Furthermore, the term "device for ejecting liquid" includes not only devices capable of ejecting liquid onto objects to which the liquid can adhere, but also devices that eject liquid into air or liquid.

[0099] This "liquid ejecting device" can also include means for feeding, transporting, and discharging items onto which liquid can be attached, as well as pre-processing devices and post-processing devices.

[0100] For example, examples of "devices that eject liquid" include image forming devices that eject ink to form an image on paper, and three-dimensional modeling devices that eject modeling liquid onto a powder layer formed by layering powder in order to create a three-dimensional object (a three-dimensional model).

[0101] In addition, the term "liquid ejection device" is not limited to devices that use ejected liquid to visualize meaningful images such as letters and figures. For example, it also includes devices that form patterns that have no meaning in themselves and devices that create three-dimensional images.

[0102] The above-mentioned "object to which liquid can adhere" means an object to which liquid can adhere at least temporarily, and to which the liquid adheres and sticks, or to which the liquid adheres and penetrates, etc. Specific examples include media such as paper, recording paper, film, cloth, and other recording media, electronic boards, electronic components such as piezoelectric elements, powder layers, organ models, and test cells, and unless otherwise specified, includes all objects to which liquid can adhere.

[0103] The material of the above-mentioned "object to which liquid can adhere" may be any material to which liquid can adhere even temporarily, such as paper, thread, fiber, cloth, leather, metal, plastic, glass, wood, and ceramics.

[0104] Furthermore, the "liquid ejection device" may be a device in which a liquid ejection head and an object to which liquid can be attached move relatively, but is not limited to this. Specific examples include a serial type device in which a liquid ejection head moves, a line type device in which a liquid ejection head does not move, etc.

[0105] Other examples of "liquid ejecting devices" include a treatment liquid application device that ejects a treatment liquid onto paper to apply the treatment liquid to the surface of the paper for purposes such as modifying the surface of the paper, and an injection granulation device that ejects a composition liquid in which raw materials are dispersed through a nozzle to granulate fine particles of the raw materials.

[0106] As described above, this embodiment includes the suction cap 311 that caps the nozzle surface 112 of the head 101 that ejects the liquid L, the suction means 334 that sucks inside the suction cap 311, the openable and closable atmosphere open path 335 that communicates with the inside of the suction cap 311, and the lid member 337 that closes the opening of the suction cap 311. The lid member 337 has a communication hole connection part 337a that is a part where the suction cap 311 comes into contact with the atmosphere open path 335, a discharge path inlet 337b that is connected to the communication hole connection part 337a and is a path through which the liquid discharged from the atmosphere open path 335 enters, a discharge path outlet 337c that is a path through which the liquid L that has entered the discharge path inlet 337b can pass to the suction cap 311 side, and a connection path 337d that is a path that connects the discharge path inlet 337b and the discharge path outlet 337c.

[0107] This makes it possible to suppress deterioration of maintenance performance.

[0108] As described above, in this embodiment, the connection path 337d is formed by a tube.

[0109] This makes it possible to suppress deterioration of maintenance performance.

[0110] As described above, in this embodiment, the connection path 337d is formed by welding a film to the cover member 337.

[0111] This allows space saving and downsizing of the device to be achieved.

[0112] As described above, in this embodiment, the connection path 337d is made of a material with high gas barrier properties.

[0113] This makes it possible to prevent liquid adhering to the inside of the connecting path from solidifying and clogging the connecting path.

[0114] As described above, in this embodiment, the communication hole connecting portion 337a is formed of an elastic material.

[0115] This allows the atmosphere communication path and the communication hole connection part to be in tight contact with each other, so that liquid can be reliably sucked and discharged.

[0116] As described above, in this embodiment, the discharge path outlet 337c is brought into contact with the absorbent 332 that absorbs the liquid L and is provided in the suction cap 311.

[0117] This allows the liquid to be efficiently collected, and also prevents the liquid from splashing around the outlet of the discharge path.

[0118] As described above, this embodiment comprises a suction cap 311 for capping the nozzle surface 112 of the head 101 that ejects liquid L, a suction means 334 for sucking inside the suction cap 311, an openable and closable atmospheric release path 335 that leads to the inside of the suction cap 311, and a lid member 337 for closing the opening of the suction cap 311, and the lid member 337 has recesses 337m, 337n, 337p, 337r, and 337s on the surface that abuts the suction cap 311.

[0119] This makes it possible to suppress deterioration of maintenance performance.

[0120] As described above, in this embodiment, the recesses 337n and 337r are located near the air release path 335.

[0121] This allows the pressure inside the suction cap to be reduced quickly, and also improves the effect of preventing the liquid from drying out.

[0122] As described above, in this embodiment, the recess 337s has the inclined portion α that is inclined so as to approach the suction cap 311 side from one end of the cover member 337 toward the other end.

[0123] As a result, even if liquid adheres to the lid member, the liquid will flow down the inclined portion toward the suction cap side, preventing the liquid from adhering to the lid member and suppressing a decrease in maintenance performance.

[0124] As described above, in this embodiment, the recesses 337m, 337n, 337r, 337p, and 337s are made of a water-repellent material on the side that comes into contact with the suction cap 311.

[0125] This makes it possible to prevent liquid from adhering to the cover member, and suppresses deterioration of maintenance performance.

[0126] The above description is merely an example, and the present invention provides unique effects for each of the following aspects.

[0127] [First aspect] The first aspect includes a suction cap (e.g., suction cap 311) that caps a nozzle surface (e.g., nozzle surface 112) of a head (e.g., head 101) that ejects a liquid (e.g., ink L), a suction means (e.g., suction pump 334) that sucks inside the suction cap, an openable and closable atmosphere open path (e.g., atmosphere open path 335) that leads to the inside of the suction cap, and a lid member (e.g., lid member 337) that closes the opening of the suction cap, a discharge path inlet (e.g., discharge path inlet 337b) that is connected to the communication hole connection part and is a path through which liquid discharged from within the atmosphere communication path enters, a discharge path outlet (e.g., discharge path outlet 337c) that is a path through which liquid that has entered the discharge path inlet can pass to the suction cap side, and a connection path (e.g., connection path 337d) that is a path that connects the discharge path inlet and the discharge path outlet.

[0128] [Second aspect] A second aspect is the same as the first aspect, wherein the connection path is formed by a tube.

[0129] [Third aspect] The third aspect is characterized in that the container according to the first aspect is formed by welding a film (for example, a path forming film 337h) to the cover member.

[0130] [Fourth aspect] A fourth aspect is characterized in that in any one of the first to third aspects, the connection path is made of a material with high gas barrier properties.

[0131] [Fifth aspect] A fifth aspect is characterized in that in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the communication hole connection portion is made of an elastic member.

[0132] [Sixth aspect] A sixth aspect is the liquid discharge device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, characterized in that the discharge path outlet is brought into contact with an absorbent body that is provided in the suction cap and absorbs the liquid.

[0133] [Seventh aspect] The seventh aspect comprises a suction cap for capping a nozzle surface of a head that ejects liquid, suction means for sucking inside the suction cap, an openable and closable atmospheric release path leading to the inside of the suction cap, and a lid member for closing the opening of the suction cap, wherein the lid member has a recess (e.g., recesses 337m, 337n, 337r, 337p, 337s) on the surface that abuts against the suction cap.

[0134] [Eighth aspect] An eighth aspect is the seventh aspect, characterized in that the recess is located in the vicinity of the air release path.

[0135] [Ninth aspect] A ninth aspect is characterized in that in the seventh aspect, the cover member has an inclined portion (for example, an inclined portion α) that inclines toward the suction cap as it moves from one end to the other end.

[0136] [Tenth aspect] A tenth aspect is any one of the seventh to ninth aspects, characterized in that the recess has a side that comes into contact with the suction cap made of a material that is water repellent.

[0137] [Eleventh aspect] The present invention relates to a device for ejecting liquid (e.g., a printing device 1) that is characterized by comprising a head for ejecting liquid and a head maintenance device (e.g., a head maintenance device 3) described in any one of the first to tenth aspects. [Explanation of symbols]

[0138] 1 Printing device 10 Loading section 20 Pretreatment section 30 Printing Department 32 Discharge unit 40 Drying section 60 Reversing mechanism 70 Unloading section 100 Head Array 101 Head 112 Nozzle surface 300 Maintenance Unit 311 Suction Cap 331a Absorption hole 332 Absorbent (cap absorbent) 333 Emission Route 334 Suction Pump 335 Atmospheric Opening 335a Communication hole 335c center line 336 On-off valve 337, 1337 Lid parts (lids to prevent drying) 337a Connecting hole 337b Exhaust route entrance 337c Discharge route exit 337d Connection route 337f Lid part 337h Path Forming Film 337m Concave (rectangle) 337n, 337r Recess (near the communication hole) 337p Concave (circular) 337s Concave (inclined part) [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0139] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6098054

Claims

1. a suction cap that caps a nozzle surface of a head that ejects liquid; A suction means for suctioning the inside of the suction cap; an openable and closable atmosphere opening passage leading to the inside of the suction cap; a cover member for closing the opening of the suction cap, The cover member is a communication hole connection portion where the suction cap comes into contact with the atmosphere open path; a discharge path inlet that is connected to the communication hole connection portion and is a path into which liquid discharged from the atmosphere communication path enters; a discharge path outlet that is a path through which the liquid that has entered the discharge path inlet can pass to the suction cap side; a connection path that connects the discharge path inlet and the discharge path outlet.

2. 2. The maintenance device according to claim 1, wherein the connection path is formed by a tube.

3. 2. The maintenance device according to claim 1, wherein the connection path is formed by welding a film to the cover member.

4. 2. The maintenance device according to claim 1, wherein the connection path is made of a material with high gas barrier properties.

5. 2. The maintenance device according to claim 1, wherein the communication hole connection portion is formed of an elastic material.

6. 2. The maintenance device according to claim 1, wherein the discharge path outlet is brought into contact with an absorbent body provided in the suction cap for absorbing the liquid.

7. a suction cap that caps a nozzle surface of a head that ejects liquid; A suction means for suctioning the inside of the suction cap; an openable and closable atmosphere opening passage leading to the inside of the suction cap; a cover member for closing the opening of the suction cap, A maintenance device according to claim 1, wherein the cover member has a recess on a surface that comes into contact with the suction cap.

8. 8. The maintenance device according to claim 7, wherein the recess is located near the atmospheric open path.

9. 8. The maintenance device according to claim 7, wherein the recess has an inclined portion that is inclined from one end of the cover member toward the other end so as to approach the suction cap.

10. 8. The maintenance device according to claim 7, wherein the recess has a surface that comes into contact with the suction cap and is made of a water-repellent material.

11. A head that ejects liquid; A liquid ejecting device comprising: a head maintenance device according to claim 1 .

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