Pressure variable unit and liquid discharge device

Abstract

To provide a pressure variable unit and a liquid discharge device enabling suppression of increase in the size.SOLUTION: A pressure variable unit varies pressures in a plurality of connection destinations. The pressure variable unit includes: a motor; a pump connected to the motor and driven by using power of the motor; a switching section 94 that switches connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump by using power of the motor; and a transmission section located between the motor and the switching section. The transmission section is configured not to transmit the power from the motor to the switching section when the motor rotates in a normal direction, and to transmit the power from the motor to the switching section when the motor rotates in an inverse direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 19

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pressure variable unit and a liquid ejection device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a liquid ejection device including a pressure variable unit that changes the pressures of a plurality of connection destinations. The pressure variable unit has a pump that changes the pressures of the plurality of connection destinations and a switching unit that switches the connections between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump. By connecting the switching unit between an arbitrary connection destination and the pump, the pressure at that connection destination is changed by the pump.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Such a pressure variable unit separately has a motor that drives the pump and a motor that drives the switching unit. In this case, there is a risk that the pressure variable unit and the liquid ejection device will become larger in size.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The pressure variable unit that solves the above problems is a pressure variable unit that changes the pressures of a plurality of connection destinations, and includes a motor, a pump that is connected to the motor and is driven by the power of the motor, a switching unit that switches the connections between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump by the power of the motor, and a transmission unit that is located between the motor and the switching unit. The transmission unit is configured not to transmit power from the motor to the switching unit when the motor rotates in the forward direction, and to transmit power from the motor to the switching unit when the motor rotates in the reverse direction.

[0006] The liquid ejection device that solves the above problems includes a liquid ejection unit that ejects liquid, and a liquid supply unit that supplies liquid to the liquid ejection unit. The liquid supply unit has a supply flow path through which liquid flows toward the liquid ejection unit and the pressure variable unit. At least one of the liquid supply unit and the liquid ejection unit has a storage unit that stores liquid. The storage unit has a membrane member that divides the inside of the storage unit into an air chamber and a liquid chamber. The plurality of connection destinations includes the storage unit, and the pressure variable unit changes the pressure of the air chamber.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the liquid ejection device will be described with reference to the drawings. The liquid ejection device is, for example, an inkjet printer that prints images such as characters and photographs by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper or fabric.

[0009] <Liquid ejection device> As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a housing 12. An outlet 13 is open in the housing 12. The printed medium M1 is discharged from the outlet 13.

[0010] The liquid ejection device 11 may include a reading unit 14. The reading unit 14 is configured to read an image recorded on a document. The reading unit 14 is a scanner. The reading unit 14 sequentially reads an image, for example, by automatically feeding a set document. The reading unit 14 is mounted on the housing 12. The reading unit 14 is mounted, for example, on the upper part of the housing 12. In one example, the reading unit 14 is attached to the housing 12 so as to be openable and closable. When the reading unit 14 opens with respect to the housing 12, the inside of the housing 12 is exposed. The user can access the inside of the housing 12 from the upper part of the housing 12 by opening the reading unit 14.

[0011] The liquid ejection device 11 includes an operation unit 15. The operation unit 15 is an interface for the user to operate the liquid ejection device 11. The operation unit 15 is, for example, a touch panel. The operation unit 15 may include buttons, levers, switches, etc. The operation unit 15 is located, for example, on the front surface of the housing 12.

[0012] The liquid ejection device 11 may include a discharge tray 16. The discharge tray 16 receives the printed medium M1. The discharge tray 16 receives the medium M1 discharged from the discharge port 13. The discharge tray 16 extends from the discharge port 13. In one example, the discharge tray 16 extends from inside the housing 12 toward the front of the liquid ejection device 11 through the discharge port 13.

[0013] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a medium storage unit 17. The medium storage unit 17 is configured to store the medium M1. The medium storage unit 17 stores the medium M1 before printing. The medium storage unit 17 is a cassette. The medium storage unit 17 is configured to be insertable into and removable from the housing 12, for example.

[0014] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a mounting unit 18. The mounting unit 18 is configured such that one or more mounting bodies 19 can be mounted thereon. In one example, four mounting bodies 19 are mounted on the mounting unit 18. The mounting body 19 is a cassette. The mounting body 19 is configured to be insertable into and removable from the mounting unit 18, for example.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2, the mounting body 19 is configured such that a liquid container 20 can be mounted thereon. The liquid container 20 is a container that stores liquid. The liquid container 20 is, for example, an ink pack. The liquid container 20 is mounted on the mounting unit 18 through the mounting body 19. In one example, four liquid containers 20 are mounted on the mounting unit 18. The four liquid containers 20 may store different liquids. For example, the four liquid containers 20 may store cyan ink, magenta ink, yellow ink, and black ink, respectively. When the liquid container 20 is mounted on the mounting unit 18, liquid is supplied from the liquid container 20 to the liquid ejection device 11.

[0016] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a medium support unit 21. The medium support unit 21 supports the medium M1 conveyed from the medium storage unit 17. The medium support unit 21 supports the medium M1 while liquid is being ejected. The medium support unit 21 supports the medium M1 during printing.

[0017] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a liquid ejection unit 22. The liquid ejection unit 22 is configured to eject liquid onto a medium M1. The liquid ejection unit 22 ejects liquid onto the medium M1 supported by a medium support portion 21. The liquid ejection unit 22 is configured such that liquid is supplied from a liquid container 20.

[0018] The liquid ejection unit 22 has a discharge portion 23. The discharge portion 23 has a nozzle surface 24. The nozzle surface 24 is a surface facing the medium M1. One or more nozzles 25 open on the nozzle surface 24. The discharge portion 23 discharges liquid from the nozzles 25.

[0019] The liquid ejection unit 22 is configured to move in a scanning direction D1. Specifically, the liquid ejection unit 22 is configured to move in the scanning direction D1 and the opposite direction thereof. The liquid ejection unit 22 reciprocates on the medium M1. Thereby, the liquid ejection unit 22 can eject liquid over the entire width of the medium M1. In one example, the liquid ejection unit 22 is a serial head. The liquid ejection unit 22 may also be a line head capable of ejecting liquid all at once over the entire width of the medium M1.

[0020] The liquid ejection unit 22 may have a moving body 26. The moving body 26 mounts the discharge portion 23. The moving body 26 moves in the scanning direction D1 within the housing 12. Specifically, the moving body 26 moves in the scanning direction D1 and the opposite direction thereof. The moving body 26 moves within a moving region A1. The moving region A1 is a region including the upper portion of the medium support portion 21.

[0021] The moving body 26 moves between a standby position and a turning position within the moving region A1. The standby position is the position where the moving body 26 waits. For example, when the liquid ejection unit 22 does not eject liquid onto the medium M1, the moving body 26 is located at the standby position. The turning position is the position where the moving body 26 turns its movement from the scanning direction D1 to the opposite direction. The standby position and the turning position are positions at the ends of the moving region A1. In one example, in FIG. 2, the moving body 26 is located at the turning position.

[0022] The liquid ejection unit 22 has a flow section 27. The liquid flowing through the flow section 27 is supplied to the ejection section 23. The flow section 27 is connected to the ejection section 23. The flow section 27 is positioned between the liquid container 20 and the ejection section 23. In one example, the flow section 27 is mounted on the moving body 26. The flow section 27 will be described later.

[0023] The liquid ejection device 11 includes one or more storage sections 28. In one example, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a plurality of storage sections 28. The storage section 28 is configured to store liquid. The storage section 28 is connected to the ejection section 23. The storage section 28 may be directly connected to the ejection section 23 or indirectly connected to the ejection section 23 via other components. The liquid stored in the storage section 28 is supplied to the ejection section 23. The storage section 28 is positioned between the liquid container 20 and the ejection section 23. The storage section 28 stores liquid between the liquid container 20 and the ejection section 23. The storage section 28 is, for example, an on-off valve 52, a pressurizing section 53, a flow path pump 71, etc. The on-off valve 52, the pressurizing section 53, and the flow path pump 71 will be described later.

[0024] Based on FIG. 3, the common configuration of the storage section 28 will be described. The storage section 28 has a membrane member 29. The membrane member 29 is a flexible member. The membrane member 29 is deformable. The membrane member 29 divides the inside of the storage section 28 into a liquid chamber C1 and an air chamber C2. The liquid chamber C1 is a space where liquid is stored. The liquid chamber C1 communicates with the ejection section 23. The air chamber C2 is a space where air is stored. The air chamber C2 communicates with a pressure variable unit 81 described later. The membrane member 29 partitions the liquid chamber C1 and the air chamber C2. The membrane member 29 constitutes the wall surface of the liquid chamber C1 and the wall surface of the air chamber C2. The membrane member 29 deforms according to the pressure in the liquid chamber C1 and the pressure in the air chamber C2. When the membrane member 29 deforms, the volume of the liquid chamber C1 and the volume of the air chamber C2 change.

[0025] The accommodating portion 28 is formed with a plurality of openings. Through the plurality of openings, liquid and air are supplied to and discharged from the accommodating portion 28. In one example, an inlet H1, an outlet H2, and an air port H3 open in the accommodating portion 28. The inlet H1 communicates with the liquid chamber C1. Through the inlet H1, liquid flows into the liquid chamber C1. The outlet H2 communicates with the liquid chamber C1. Through the outlet H2, liquid flows out of the liquid chamber C1. The air port H3 communicates with the air chamber C2. Through the air port H3, air is supplied to and discharged from the air chamber C2. That is, through the air port H3, the air chamber C2 is pressurized or depressurized. When the air chamber C2 is pressurized, the membrane member 29 deforms so as to increase the volume of the air chamber C2. In other words, the membrane member 29 deforms so as to decrease the volume of the liquid chamber C1. As a result, liquid flows out of the liquid chamber C1 through the outlet H2. When the air chamber C2 is depressurized, the membrane member 29 deforms so as to decrease the volume of the air chamber C2. In other words, the membrane member 29 deforms so as to increase the volume of the liquid chamber C1. As a result, liquid flows into the liquid chamber C1 through the inlet H1.

[0026] As shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6, and 7, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a liquid supply unit 30. The liquid supply unit 30 is configured to supply liquid to the liquid ejection unit 22. The liquid supply unit 30 supplies liquid to the ejection portion 23. The liquid supply unit 30 supplies liquid from the liquid container 20 to the ejection portion 23. The liquid supply unit 30 is connected to the liquid ejection unit 22. The liquid supply unit 30 is connected to the mounting portion 18. The liquid supply unit 30 is connected to the liquid container 20 via the mounting portion 18. The liquid supply unit 30 will be described later.

[0027] At least one of the liquid ejection unit 22 and the liquid supply unit 30 has a housing portion 28. The liquid ejection unit 22 may have the housing portion 28, or the liquid supply unit 30 may have the housing portion 28. Only the liquid ejection unit 22 may have the housing portion 28, only the liquid supply unit 30 may have the housing portion 28, or both the liquid ejection unit 22 and the liquid supply unit 30 may have the housing portion 28. In one example, both the liquid ejection unit 22 and the liquid supply unit 30 have the housing portion 28.

[0028] The liquid ejection unit 22 and the liquid supply unit 30 each have one or more housing portions 28. The liquid ejection unit 22 and the liquid supply unit 30 may each have one housing portion 28, or may each have a plurality of housing portions 28. Of the liquid ejection unit 22 and the liquid supply unit 30, one may have one housing portion 28 and the other may have a plurality of housing portions 28.

[0029] The housing portion 28 is provided in the liquid ejection unit 22 or the liquid supply unit 30. Each of the plurality of housing portions 28 is provided in the liquid ejection unit 22 or the liquid supply unit 30. The plurality of housing portions 28 may include one or more housing portions 28 provided in the liquid ejection unit 22 and one or more housing portions 28 provided in the liquid supply unit 30.

[0030] The liquid ejection device 11 may include a moving shaft 31. The moving shaft 31 is a shaft that supports the moving body 26. The moving shaft 31 extends in the scanning direction D1. The moving shaft 31 guides the moving body 26. The moving body 26 moves along the moving shaft 31.

[0031] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a frame 32. The frame 32 supports the liquid supply unit 30. Specifically, the frame 32 supports the pressure variable unit 81. More specifically, the frame 32 supports a pump unit described later. In one example, the frame 32 supports a first pump unit 82 described later.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the frame 32 has a support plate 33. The support plate 33 faces the first pump unit 82. The support plate 33 extends in a direction perpendicular to the scanning direction D1.

[0033] The frame 32 has one or more support portions 34. In one example, the frame 32 has two support portions 34. The support portion 34 is a portion that supports the first pump unit 82. The support portion 34 extends from the support plate 33.

[0034] The support portion 34 has a first support piece 35 and a second support piece 36. The first support piece 35 extends from the support plate 33. The first support piece 35 extends perpendicularly from the support plate 33. The first support piece 35 extends so as to approach the first pump unit 82. The second support piece 36 extends from the first support piece 35. The second support piece 36 extends from the tip of the first support piece 35. The second support piece 36 extends perpendicularly from the first support piece 35. The second support piece 36 extends upward.

[0035] The frame 32 has a mounting portion 37. The mounting portion 37 is a portion to which the first pump unit 82 is mounted. The mounting portion 37 has a first mounting piece 38 and a second mounting piece 39. In one example, the mounting portion 37 has one first mounting piece 38 and two second mounting pieces 39. The mounting portion 37 is located above the support portion 34.

[0036] The first mounting piece 38 extends from the support plate 33. The first mounting piece 38 extends perpendicularly from the support plate 33. The first mounting piece 38 extends so as to approach the first pump unit 82. The second mounting piece 39 extends from the first mounting piece 38. The second mounting piece 39 extends from the tip of the first mounting piece 38. The second mounting piece 39 extends perpendicularly from the first mounting piece 38. The second mounting piece 39 extends upward.

[0037] The attachment portion 37 has a fixing hole 40 opening therein. The fixing hole 40 is a hole that penetrates the attachment portion 37 vertically. The fixing hole 40 opens in the first attachment piece 38. In one example, the fixing hole 40 is located between the two second attachment pieces 39. A fixing member 41, which will be described later, is inserted into the fixing hole 40. Thereby, the first pump unit 82 is fixed to the attachment portion 37.

[0038] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a fixing member 41. The fixing member 41 is a member that fixes the liquid supply unit 30 to the frame 32. Specifically, the fixing member 41 fixes the pressure variable unit 81 to the frame 32. More specifically, the fixing member 41 fixes the pump unit to the frame 32. In one example, the fixing member 41 fixes the first pump unit 82 to the frame 32. The fixing member 41 is, for example, a screw.

[0039] The fixing member 41 is configured to be detachable from above with respect to the pressure variable unit 81 and the frame 32. In one example, the fixing member 41 is inserted into the fixing hole 40 from above. Therefore, the user can attach and detach the fixing member 41 from above. For example, when the reading unit 14 is opened with respect to the housing 12, the fixing member 41 is exposed. Therefore, the user can remove the first pump unit 82 from above.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a control unit 42. The control unit 42 controls the liquid supply unit 30. The control unit 42 may control the liquid ejection unit 22 in addition to the liquid supply unit 30. The control unit 42 may comprehensively control the liquid ejection device 11.

[0041] The control unit 42 may be composed of one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program. The control unit 42 may be composed of one or more dedicated hardware circuits such as an ASIC that executes at least a part of the various processes. The control unit 42 may be composed of a circuit including a combination of a processor and a hardware circuit. The processor includes a CPU and a memory such as a RAM and a ROM. The memory stores program code configured to cause the CPU to execute a process or instructions. The memory, that is, the computer-readable medium, includes any readable medium accessible by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0042] <Fluid section> Next, the fluid section 27 will be described. The fluid section 27 may have a regulating valve 51. The regulating valve 51 is configured to open and close. The regulating valve 51 is normally closed. When the regulating valve 51 opens, it becomes possible to supply liquid to the discharge section 23. When the regulating valve 51 opens, liquid flows into the fluid section 27.

[0043] The regulating valve 51 is configured to adjust the pressure in the discharge section 23. In one example, the regulating valve 51 is configured to adjust the pressure in the fluid section 27. The regulating valve 51 adjusts the pressure in the fluid section 27 by opening and closing based on the pressure in the fluid section 27. The regulating valve 51 adjusts the pressure in the discharge section 23 by adjusting the pressure in the fluid section 27.

[0044] The regulating valve 51 is configured to open and close according to the differential pressure between the pressure in the discharge section 23 and the atmospheric pressure. In one example, the regulating valve 51 opens and closes according to the differential pressure between the pressure in the fluid section 27 and the atmospheric pressure. Specifically, the regulating valve 51 opens when the pressure downstream of itself is equal to or lower than a predetermined pressure. That is, the regulating valve 51 opens when the pressure in the fluid section 27 is equal to or lower than a predetermined pressure. The regulating valve 51 closes when the pressure in the fluid section 27 is greater than the predetermined pressure.

[0045] The regulating valve 51 maintains the interior of the flow section 27 at a predetermined pressure by opening and closing. The regulating valve 51 maintains the interior of the discharge section 23 at a predetermined pressure by maintaining the interior of the flow section 27 at a predetermined pressure. The operating pressure at which the regulating valve 51 opens is a predetermined negative pressure. Therefore, the interior of the discharge section 23 is maintained at a predetermined negative pressure by the regulating valve 51. When the interior of the discharge section 23 is maintained at a predetermined negative pressure, a meniscus is formed at the nozzle 25. When a meniscus is formed at the nozzle 25, the discharge section 23 can discharge the liquid well. In the liquid discharge device 11, not limited to the regulating valve 51, for example, the interior of the discharge section 23 may be maintained at a negative pressure by a water head difference.

[0046] The flow section 27 has one or more storage sections 28. The flow section 27 has, for example, an on-off valve 52 and a pressurizing section 53. Each of the on-off valve 52 and the pressurizing section 53 is an example of the storage section 28. The on-off valve 52 and the pressurizing section 53 are located downstream of the regulating valve 51. In the flow section 27, the liquid is supplied to the discharge section 23 by passing through the regulating valve 51, the on-off valve 52, and the pressurizing section 53 in this order.

[0047] The on-off valve 52 is connected to the regulating valve 51. The on-off valve 52 is connected to the pressurizing section 53. The on-off valve 52 is connected to the discharge section 23 through the pressurizing section 53. The on-off valve 52 is configured to open and close. Different from the regulating valve 51, the on-off valve 52 is configured to open and close arbitrarily. The on-off valve 52 opens and closes by being controlled by the control section 42. When the pressure in the air chamber C2 of the on-off valve 52 changes, the on-off valve 52 opens and closes. The on-off valve 52 closes when cleaning the discharge section 23. Specifically, the on-off valve 52 closes when the pressurizing section 53 cleans the discharge section 23. The on-off valve 52 is normally open.

[0048] The pressurizing unit 53 is connected to the discharging unit 23. The pressurizing unit 53 is configured to pressurize the inside of the discharging unit 23. When the pressure in the air chamber C2 of the pressurizing unit 53 changes, the pressurizing unit 53 pressurizes the inside of the discharging unit 23. The pressurizing unit 53 cleans the discharging unit 23 by pressurizing the inside of the discharging unit 23. Specifically, the pressurizing unit 53 discharges the liquid from the nozzle 25 by pressurizing the inside of the discharging unit 23. As a result, the thickened liquid, foreign matters, etc. are discharged from the inside of the discharging unit 23. By pressurizing the inside of the discharging unit 23 with the on-off valve 52 closed, the risk of liquid flowing back from the pressurizing unit 53 is reduced. By closing the on-off valve 52, that is, choking, the pressurizing unit 53 can effectively pressurize the inside of the discharging unit 23.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 10, the flow unit 27 has a discharge joint 54. The discharge joint 54 is connected to the regulating valve 51. In one example, the discharge joint 54 is connected to the regulating valve 51 via a tube. The discharge joint 54 is connected to the liquid supply unit 30. Specifically, the discharge joint 54 is connected to a supply flow path 161 and an air flow path 162 described later. Liquid is supplied into the flow unit 27 through the discharge joint 54 and the regulating valve 51. Air is supplied into the flow unit 27 through the discharge joint 54.

[0050] The flow unit 27 has a flow member 55. The flow member 55 is a member that defines a space for accommodating the liquid. The flow member 55 also defines a space for accommodating air. The flow member 55 constitutes the on-off valve 52 and the pressurizing unit 53. The flow member 55 is connected to the regulating valve 51. The flow member 55 is connected to the discharge joint 54. Liquid is supplied to the flow member 55 through the regulating valve 51 and the discharge joint 54. Air is supplied to the flow member 55 through the discharge joint 54. In addition to the on-off valve 52 and the pressurizing unit 53, the flow member 55 may constitute the regulating valve 51. The flow member 55 may further constitute the discharge joint 54. That is, the regulating valve 51, the on-off valve 52, the pressurizing unit 53, and the discharge joint 54 may be integrally constituted by the flow member 55.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 11, the flow member 55 defines a choke space C3. The choke space C3 is a space within the on-off valve 52. A choke inlet H4 and a choke outlet H5 open in the flow member 55. The choke inlet H4 is an example of the inlet H1. The choke inlet H4 communicates with the regulating valve 51. The choke outlet H5 is an example of the outlet H2. The choke outlet H5 communicates with the pressurizing section 53. A choke air port H6 opens in the flow member 55. The choke air port H6 is an example of the air port H3. The choke air port H6 communicates with the discharge joint 54.

[0052] The flow member 55 defines a pressurized space C4. The pressurized space C4 is a space within the pressurizing section 53. A pressurized inlet H7 and a pressurized outlet H8 open in the flow member 55. The pressurized inlet H7 is an example of the inlet H1. The pressurized inlet H7 communicates with the on-off valve 52. The pressurized inlet H7 is a common opening with the choke outlet H5. The pressurized outlet H8 is an example of the outlet H2. The pressurized outlet H8 communicates with the discharge section 23. A pressurized air port H9 opens in the flow member 55. The pressurized air port H9 is an example of the air port H3. The pressurized air port H9 communicates with the discharge joint 54.

[0053] The flow section 27 has a choke diaphragm 56. The choke diaphragm 56 is attached to the flow member 55. The choke diaphragm 56 is an example of the membrane member 29. The choke diaphragm 56 constitutes the on-off valve 52. The choke diaphragm 56 divides the choke space C3 into a choke liquid chamber C5 and a choke air chamber C6. The choke liquid chamber C5 is an example of the liquid chamber C1. The choke liquid chamber C5 communicates with the choke inlet H4 and the choke outlet H5. The choke air chamber C6 is an example of the air chamber C2. The choke air chamber C6 communicates with the choke air port H6.

[0054] The choke diaphragm 56 has a valve portion 57. The valve portion 57 is a portion that closes the choke inlet H4 or the choke outlet H5. In one example, the valve portion 57 closes the choke outlet H5. The valve portion 57 closes the choke outlet H5 by being pressed against a lever 59 described later.

[0055] The choke film 56 has an operating portion 58. The operating portion 58 is a portion that operates the lever 59. The operating portion 58 is configured to be more easily deformed than the valve portion 57. In one example, the operating portion 58 is configured to have less elasticity than the valve portion 57. For example, the thickness of the operating portion 58 may be smaller than the thickness of the valve portion 57. The area of the operating portion 58 facing the choke air chamber C6 may be larger than the area of the valve portion 57 facing the choke air chamber C6.

[0056] When the choke air chamber C6 is depressurized, the valve portion 57 and the operating portion 58 deform to reduce the volume of the choke air chamber C6. At this time, the operating portion 58 is more easily deformed than the valve portion 57.

[0057] The fluid portion 27 has a lever 59. The lever 59 constitutes the on-off valve 52. The lever 59 is attached to the fluid member 55. The lever 59 is located in the choke space C3. Specifically, the lever 59 is located in the choke air chamber C6. The lever 59 has, for example, a shaft portion 60. The shaft portion 60 is attached to the fluid member 55. The lever 59 is displaced about the shaft portion 60. The lever 59 is displaced in the choke air chamber C6.

[0058] The lever 59 has a first portion 61 and a second portion 62. The first portion 61 is a portion including one end of the lever 59. The first portion 61 is positioned to contact the valve portion 57. The second portion 62 is a portion including the other end of the lever 59. The second portion 62 is positioned to contact the operating portion 58.

[0059] When the choke air chamber C6 is depressurized, the valve portion 57 deforms to push up the first portion 61. When the choke air chamber C6 is depressurized, the operating portion 58 deforms to push up the second portion 62. Since the operating portion 58 is more deformable than the valve portion 57, the force with which the operating portion 58 pushes up the lever 59 is greater than the force with which the valve portion 57 pushes up the lever 59. Therefore, the lever 59 is displaced so that the first portion 61 pushes down the valve portion 57. That is, the lever 59 presses the valve portion 57 against the choke outlet H5. As a result, the choke outlet H5 is blocked.

[0060] The fluid portion 27 has a pressure membrane 63. The pressure membrane 63 is attached to the fluid member 55. The pressure membrane 63 is an example of the membrane member 29. The pressure membrane 63 constitutes the pressurizing portion 53. The pressure membrane 63 divides the pressurized space C4 into a pressurized liquid chamber C7 and a pressurized air chamber C8. The pressurized liquid chamber C7 is an example of the liquid chamber C1. The pressurized liquid chamber C7 communicates with a pressurized inlet H7 and a pressurized outlet H8. The pressurized air chamber C8 is an example of the air chamber C2. The pressurized air chamber C8 communicates with a pressurized air port H9.

[0061] The fluid portion 27 may have a pressurizing member 64. The pressurizing member 64 is configured to press against the pressure membrane 63. Specifically, the pressurizing member 64 presses against the pressure membrane 63 so that the volume of the pressurized liquid chamber C7 decreases. The pressurizing member 64 is located in the pressurized air chamber C8. The pressurizing member 64 is attached to the fluid member 55 and the pressure membrane 63.

[0062] When the pressurized air chamber C8 is depressurized, the pressure membrane 63 is displaced so that the volume of the pressurized air chamber C8 decreases. At this time, the pressure membrane 63 is displaced so that the volume of the pressurized liquid chamber C7 increases. As a result, liquid flows into the pressurized liquid chamber C7. Specifically, liquid flows into the pressurized liquid chamber C7 from the discharge portion 23, the regulating valve 51, the on-off valve 52, and the like. When the pressurized air chamber C8 is pressurized or opened to the atmosphere, the pressure membrane 63 deforms so that the volume of the pressurized liquid chamber C7 decreases. At this time, the liquid in the pressurized liquid chamber C7 is pressurized. As a result, liquid is discharged from the nozzle 25.

[0063] <Liquid supply unit> Next, the liquid supply unit 30 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6, and 7, the liquid supply unit 30 is connected to the mounting portion 18. The liquid supply unit 30 is connected to the liquid discharge unit 22.

[0064] The liquid supply unit 30 has a housing portion 28. Specifically, the liquid supply unit 30 has a flow path pump 71. The flow path pump 71 is an example of the housing portion 28. The flow path pump 71 is a so-called diaphragm pump.

[0065] The liquid supply unit 30 has one or more flow path pumps 71. In one example, the liquid supply unit 30 has four flow path pumps 71. The flow path pump 71 is connected to the mounting portion 18. The flow path pump 71 is located behind the mounting portion 18. The four flow path pumps 71 are respectively located behind the four liquid containers 20. The flow path pump 71 is connected to the liquid container 20 through the mounting portion 18. The four flow path pumps 71 are respectively connected to the four liquid containers 20. The flow path pump 71 supplies liquid from the liquid container 20 toward the discharge portion 23.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the flow path pump 71 has a pump member 72. The pump member 72 defines a pump space C11. The pump member 72 has a pump inlet pipe 73, a pump outlet pipe 74, and a pump air pipe 75. The pump inlet pipe 73 is inserted into the liquid container 20 mounted on the mounting portion 18. The pump inlet pipe 73 is a so-called supply needle. A pump inlet H11 opens in the pump inlet pipe 73. The pump inlet H11 is an example of the inlet H1. The pump outlet pipe 74 is connected to the supply flow path 161. A pump outlet H12 opens in the pump outlet pipe 74. The pump outlet H12 is an example of the outlet H2. The pump air pipe 75 is connected to the air flow path 162. A pump air port H13 opens in the pump air pipe 75. The pump air port H13 is an example of the air port H3.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 13, the flow path pump 71 has a diaphragm 76 which is an example of the membrane member 29. The diaphragm 76 divides the inside of the flow path pump 71 into a pump liquid chamber C12 and a pump air chamber C13. Specifically, the diaphragm 76 divides the pump space C11 into a pump liquid chamber C12 and a pump air chamber C13. The pump liquid chamber C12 is an example of the liquid chamber C1. The pump air chamber C13 is an example of the air chamber C2. The pump liquid chamber C12 communicates with the pump inlet H11 and the pump outlet H12. The pump liquid chamber C12 communicates with the discharge portion 23 via the pump outlet H12. The pump air chamber C13 communicates with the pump air port H13. The pump air chamber C13 communicates with the pressure variable unit 81 via the pump air port H13.

[0068] The flow path pump 71 has a pressing member 77. The pressing member 77 is configured to press the diaphragm 76. Specifically, the pressing member 77 presses the diaphragm 76 so that the volume of the pump liquid chamber C12 decreases. That is, the pressing member 77 presses the diaphragm 76 so as to pressurize the pump liquid chamber C12. The pressing member 77 is located in the pump air chamber C13.

[0069] When the pump air chamber C13 is depressurized, the diaphragm 76 deforms so that the volume of the pump liquid chamber C12 increases. Thereby, the liquid flows from the liquid container 20 into the pump liquid chamber C12. When the pump air chamber C13 is pressurized or opened to the atmosphere, the diaphragm 76 deforms so that the volume of the pump liquid chamber C12 decreases. Thereby, the liquid flows out from the pump liquid chamber C12 toward the flow portion 27.

[0070] As shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6, and 7, the liquid supply unit 30 has a pressure variable unit 81. The pressure variable unit 81 is connected to a plurality of connection destinations. The plurality of connection destinations includes one or more storage portions 28. That is, the pressure variable unit 81 is connected to one or more storage portions 28. In one example, the plurality of connection destinations includes a plurality of storage portions 28. The pressure variable unit 81 is connected to the plurality of storage portions 28. Specifically, the pressure variable unit 81 is connected to the on-off valve 52, the pressurizing unit 53, and the flow path pump 71. The plurality of connection destinations may include configurations other than the storage portion 28. That is, the pressure variable unit 81 may also be connected to configurations other than the storage portion 28.

[0071] The pressure variable unit 81 is configured to change the pressure of the plurality of connection destinations. Specifically, the pressure variable unit 81 changes the pressure of one or more of the plurality of connection destinations. The pressure variable unit 81 changes the pressure of any of the plurality of connection destinations. For example, the pressure variable unit 81 changes the pressure of the storage portion 28 among the plurality of connection destinations. The pressure variable unit 81 changes the pressure of the on-off valve 52, the pressurizing unit 53, and the flow path pump 71, etc.

[0072] The pressure variable unit 81 changes the pressure of the air chamber C2. In one example, the pressure variable unit 81 reduces the pressure of the air chamber C2. The pressure variable unit 81 may pressurize the air chamber C2.

[0073] The pressure variable unit 81 selectively changes the pressure of the plurality of storage portions 28. For example, the pressure variable unit 81 changes the pressure of any of the storage portions 28 among the on-off valve 52, the pressurizing unit 53, and the flow path pump 71. The pressure variable unit 81 selectively changes the pressure of the plurality of air chambers C2. That is, the pressure variable unit 81 selectively changes the pressure of the choke air chamber C6, the pressurizing air chamber C8, and the pump air chamber C13.

[0074] The pressure variable unit 81 has one or more pump units. In one example, the pressure variable unit 81 has a first pump unit 82 and a second pump unit 83. The first pump unit 82 and the second pump unit 83 are each connected to a plurality of connection destinations. The connection destinations of the first pump unit 82 and the second pump unit 83 are common. That is, the first pump unit 82 and the second pump unit 83 are connected to the on-off valve 52, the pressurizing unit 53, and the flow path pump 71. The first pump unit 82 and the second pump unit 83 change the pressure of the connection destination by sucking air from the connection destination or discharging air to the connection destination. When the pressure variable unit 81 has a plurality of pump units, it is easy to change the pressure of the connection destination.

[0075] The first pump unit 82 is attached to the frame 32. The first pump unit 82 is fixed to the frame 32. The second pump unit 83 is attached to the mounting portion 18. The second pump unit 83 is fixed to the mounting portion 18. The second pump unit 83 is located behind the mounting portion 18. The first pump unit 82 is located above the second pump unit 83.

[0076] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the first pump unit 82 has a mounting member 84. The mounting member 84 is a member attached to the frame 32. The mounting member 84 is fixed to the frame 32.

[0077] The mounting member 84 has a mounting plate 85. The mounting plate 85 faces the support plate 33. The mounting plate 85 extends along the support plate 33. The mounting plate 85 extends in a direction perpendicular to the scanning direction D1.

[0078] The mounting member 84 has one or more contact portions 86. In one example, the mounting member 84 has two contact portions 86. The contact portion 86 extends from the mounting plate 85. The contact portion 86 is a portion that contacts the support portion 34.

[0079] The contact portion 86 has a first contact piece 87 and a second contact piece 88. The first contact piece 87 extends from the mounting plate 85. The first contact piece 87 extends toward the support plate 33. The first contact piece 87 extends perpendicular to the mounting plate 85. The second contact piece 88 extends from the first contact piece 87. The second contact piece 88 extends from the tip of the first contact piece 87. The second contact piece 88 extends perpendicular to the first contact piece 87. The two second contact pieces 88 extend away from each other.

[0080] The contact portion 86 is attached to the support portion 34. Specifically, the contact portion 86 is attached to the support portion 34 by the second contact piece 88 being hooked on the support portion 34. For example, the support portion 34 is inserted into the contact portion 86 from below, whereby the contact portion 86 is hooked on the support portion 34. At this time, the second contact piece 88 is located between the support plate 33 and the second support piece 36. Thereby, the first pump unit 82 is supported by the frame 32.

[0081] The attachment member 84 has an insertion portion 89. The insertion portion 89 extends from the mounting plate 85. The insertion portion 89 extends toward the support plate 33. The insertion portion 89 extends perpendicular to the mounting plate 85. The insertion portion 89 is a portion into which the fixing member 41 is inserted. The insertion portion 89 is located, for example, above the contact portion 86.

[0082] One or more insertion grooves 90 are formed in the insertion portion 89. In one example, two insertion grooves 90 are formed in the insertion portion 89. The attachment portion 37 is inserted into the insertion groove 90. Specifically, the second attachment piece 39 is inserted into the insertion groove 90. The second attachment piece 39 is inserted into the insertion groove 90 from below. By inserting the attachment portion 37 into the insertion groove 90, the insertion portion 89 is attached to the attachment portion 37.

[0083] By attaching the contact portion 86 and the insertion portion 89 to the frame 32, the posture of the first pump unit 82 is stabilized. Since the first pump unit 82 is supported by the support portion 34 at two points, namely the contact portion 86 and the insertion portion 89, the rattling of the first pump unit 82 is reduced.

[0084] As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, when the first pump unit 82 is lifted upward, the contact portion 86 is removed from the support portion 34. When the first pump unit 82 is lifted upward, the insertion portion 89 is removed from the attachment portion 37. Thereby, the first pump unit 82 is removed from the frame 32. When the first pump unit 82 is attached to the frame 32, the support portion 34 is inserted into the contact portion 86 and the attachment portion 37 is inserted into the insertion portion 89. Thus, the first pump unit 82 is configured to be easily detachable from above. Thereby, the maintainability of the pressure variable unit 81 is improved.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 18, the first pump unit 82 has a base member 91. Various components of the first pump unit 82 are attached to the base member 91. An attachment member 84 is attached to the base member 91.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the first pump unit 82 has a motor. Specifically, the first pump unit 82 has a first motor 92. The first motor 92 is configured to rotate in the forward and reverse directions. In one example, the first motor 92 is configured to be able to extract power from both shafts.

[0087] The first pump unit 82 has a pump. Specifically, the first pump unit 82 has a first pump 93. The first pump 93 changes the pressure in the housing portion 28. In one example, the first pump 93 is a vacuum pump. The first pump 93 may also be a pressure pump.

[0088] The first pump 93 is connected to the first motor 92. The first pump 93 is driven by the power of the first motor 92. When the first motor 92 is driven, the first pump 93 is also driven. In one example, in either the case where the first motor 92 rotates forward or the case where the first motor 92 rotates in reverse, the first pump 93 is driven to generate a negative pressure.

[0089] The first pump 93 is connected to a plurality of connection destinations of the pressure variable unit 81. In one example, the first pump 93 is connected to a plurality of storage portions 28. Specifically, the first pump 93 is connected to the on-off valve 52, the pressurizing portion 53, and the flow path pump 71.

[0090] The first pump unit 82 has a switching portion 94. The switching portion 94 is configured to switch the connection between a plurality of connection destinations of the first pump unit 82 and the first pump 93. The switching portion 94 switches the connection so as to change the pressure of any one of the plurality of connection destinations. It can also be said that the switching portion 94 switches the path connecting the connection destination and the first pump 93. In one example, the switching portion 94 switches the connection between the plurality of storage portions 28 and the first pump 93.

[0091] The switching portion 94 is connected to the first motor 92. The switching portion 94 switches the connection between a plurality of connection destinations of the first pump unit 82 and the first pump 93 by the power of the first motor 92. That is, the switching portion 94 switches the path connecting the storage portion 28 and the first pump 93 by the power of the first motor 92. The switching portion 94 causes the negative pressure by the first pump 93 to act on an arbitrary storage portion 28.

[0092] The switching portion 94 has a flow path member 95. The flow path member 95 is connected to the first pump 93. Air flows through the flow path member 95. Through the flow path member 95, the negative pressure by the first pump 93 acts on the storage portion 28.

[0093] The flow path member 95 has a flow path base material 96 and a lid member 97. The flow path base material 96 is adhered to the lid member 97. For example, the flow path base material 96 is laser welded to the lid member 97. The flow path base material 96 may be heat welded to the lid member 97 or adhered with an adhesive.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 20, a plurality of switching channels are defined in the flow path member 95. In one example, the flow path member 95 defines a pump path P1, an open path P2, a pressurizing path P3, a choke path P4, and a conduction path P5. The pump path P1 is a flow path communicating with the first pump 93. The pump path P1 is a flow path communicating with the flow path pump 71. The open path P2 is a flow path communicating with the atmosphere. The pressurizing path P3 is a flow path communicating with the pressurizing section 53. The choke path P4 is a flow path communicating with the on-off valve 52. The conduction path P5 is a flow path communicating with each of the pump path P1, the open path P2, the pressurizing path P3, and the choke path P4.

[0095] A plurality of switching ports are opened in the flow path member 95. The switching port is an opening that allows communication between the switching channels. In one example, a pump port 98, an open port 99, a pressurizing port 100, and a choke port 101 are opened in the flow path substrate 96. The pump port 98 allows communication between the pump path P1 and the conduction path P5. The open port 99 allows communication between the open path P2 and the conduction path P5. The pressurizing port 100 allows communication between the pressurizing path P3 and the conduction path P5. The choke port 101 allows communication between the choke path P4 and the conduction path P5.

[0096] The first pump 93 is opened to the atmosphere by the pump port 98 and the open port 99. The first pump 93 communicates with the pressurizing section 53 through the pump port 98 and the pressurizing port 100. The first pump 93 communicates with the on-off valve 52 through the pump port 98 and the choke port 101.

[0097] The flow path member 95 has a plurality of conduction pipes. The conduction pipes are pipes through which air enters and exits the flow path member 95. In one example, the flow path member 95 has a pump pipe 102, a flow path pump pipe 103, an open pipe 104, a pressure pipe 105, and a choke pipe 106. The pump pipe 102 communicates with the pump path P1. The pump pipe 102 is connected to the first pump 93. The pump pipe 102 is connected to the first pump 93 via a tube, for example. The flow path pump pipe 103 communicates with the pump path P1. The flow path pump pipe 103 is connected to the flow path pump 71 via a tube, for example. The open pipe 104 communicates with the open path P2. The open pipe 104 is open to the atmosphere. The pressure pipe 105 communicates with the pressure path P3. The pressure pipe 105 is connected to the pressure section 53 via a tube, for example. The choke pipe 106 communicates with the choke path P4. The choke pipe 106 is connected to the on-off valve 52 via a tube, for example.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 19, the switching section 94 has a selector valve 107. The selector valve 107 is configured to open and close a plurality of switching paths. The selector valve 107 opens an arbitrary switching path among the plurality of switching paths. In one example, the selector valve 107 opens an arbitrary switching path among the pump path P1, the open path P2, the pressure path P3, and the choke path P4. Thereby, the selector valve 107 allows the first pump 93 to communicate with an arbitrary storage section 28.

[0099] The selector valve 107 has a valve base 108. The valve base 108 is attached to the flow path member 95. Specifically, the valve base 108 is attached to the flow path substrate 96.

[0100] The selector valve 107 has a plurality of valves. In one example, the selector valve 107 has a pump valve 109, an open valve 110, a pressure valve 111, and a choke valve 112. The plurality of valves are attached to the valve base 108. The pump valve 109, the open valve 110, the pressure valve 111, and the choke valve 112 are attached to the valve base 108.

[0101] A plurality of valves are respectively located between a plurality of connection destinations and the first pump 93. Specifically, the plurality of valves are located on a path connecting the connection destination and the first pump 93. The plurality of valves open and close this path. In one example, the plurality of valves open and close a switching port.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 20, the pump valve 109 is positioned to block the pump port 98. The pump valve 109 opens and closes the pump port 98. The open valve 110 is positioned to block the open port 99. The open valve 110 opens and closes the open port 99. The pressure valve 111 is positioned to block the pressure port 100. The pressure valve 111 opens and closes the pressure port 100. The choke valve 112 is positioned to block the choke port 101. The choke valve 112 opens and closes the choke port 101.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 19, the selector valve 107 has a plurality of valve levers. In one example, the selector valve 107 has a pump valve lever 113, an open valve lever 114, a pressure valve lever 115, and a choke valve lever 116. The valve lever is a lever for opening a valve. The valve lever is connected to the valve. The valve lever is attached to the valve base 108.

[0104] The pump valve lever 113 is connected to the pump valve 109. The pump valve lever 113 lifts the pump valve 109. Thereby, the pump valve 109 opens. That is, the pump port 98 opens.

[0105] The open valve lever 114 is connected to the open valve 110. The open valve lever 114 lifts the open valve 110. Thereby, the open valve 110 opens. That is, the open port 99 opens.

[0106] The pressure valve lever 115 is connected to the pressure valve 111. The pressure valve lever 115 lifts the pressure valve 111. Thereby, the pressure valve 111 opens. That is, the pressure port 100 opens.

[0107] The choke valve lever 116 is connected to the choke valve 112. The choke valve lever 116 lifts the choke valve 112. Thereby, the choke valve 112 opens. That is, the choke port 101 opens.

[0108] The switching unit 94 has a cam unit 117. The cam unit 117 is a unit that operates the valve lever. The cam unit 117 arbitrarily operates the pump valve lever 113, the open valve lever 114, the pressure valve lever 115, and the choke valve lever 116. That is, the cam unit 117 arbitrarily opens the pump valve 109, the open valve 110, the pressure valve 111, and the choke valve 112.

[0109] The cam unit 117 has a plurality of cams. In one example, the cam unit 117 has a pump cam 118, an open cam 119, a pressure cam 120, and a choke cam 121. The plurality of cams respectively open and close a plurality of valves. The pump cam 118 opens and closes the pump valve 109. The open cam 119 opens and closes the open valve 110. The pressure cam 120 opens and closes the pressure valve 111. The choke cam 121 opens and closes the choke valve 112.

[0110] The cam contacts the valve lever. By rotating, the cam pushes down the valve lever. Thereby, the valve opens. When the cam does not push down the valve lever, the valve lever does not lift the valve. When the valve lever does not lift the valve, the valve closes the switching port by the action of its own weight, spring, etc.

[0111] The pump cam 118 contacts the pump valve lever 113. By rotating, the pump cam 118 pushes down the pump valve lever 113. Thereby, the pump valve 109 opens the pump port 98.

[0112] The open cam 119 contacts the open valve lever 114. By rotating, the open cam 119 pushes down the open valve lever 114. Thereby, the open valve 110 opens the open port 99.

[0113] The pressure cam 120 contacts the pressure valve lever 115. By rotating, the pressure cam 120 pushes down the pressure valve lever 115. Thereby, the pressure valve 111 opens the pressure port 100.

[0114] The choke cam 121 contacts the choke valve lever 116. By rotating, the choke cam 121 pushes down the choke valve lever 116. Thereby, the choke valve 112 opens the choke port 101.

[0115] The cam unit 117 has a camshaft 122. The camshaft 122 is the rotation axis of the cams. Specifically, the camshaft 122 is the rotation axis of the pump cam 118, the open cam 119, the pressure cam 120, and the choke cam 121. As the camshaft 122 rotates, the pump cam 118, the open cam 119, the pressure cam 120, and the choke cam 121 rotate. Therefore, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 corresponds to the opening and closing of the pump valve 109, the opening and closing of the open valve 110, the opening and closing of the pressure valve 111, and the opening and closing of the choke valve 112.

[0116] The first pump unit 82 has a transmission part. Specifically, the first pump unit 82 has a first transmission part 123. The first transmission part 123 is located between the first motor 92 and the switching part 94. Specifically, the first transmission part 123 is located between the first motor 92 and the switching part 94 in the path through which the power of the first motor 92 is transmitted.

[0117] The first transmission part 123 is configured to transmit the power of the first motor 92 to the switching part 94. Specifically, the first transmission part 123 transmits the power of the first motor 92 to the camshaft 122. The first transmission part 123 rotates the camshaft 122 by the power of the first motor 92. Thereby, the plurality of cams rotate.

[0118] When the first motor 92 rotates in the reverse direction, the first transmission unit 123 is configured to transmit the power of the first motor 92 to the switching unit 94. That is, when the first motor 92 rotates reversely, the first transmission unit 123 rotates the camshaft 122 by the power of the first motor 92.

[0119] When the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction, the first transmission unit 123 is configured not to transmit the power of the first motor 92 to the switching unit 94. That is, when the first motor 92 rotates forward, the first transmission unit 123 does not rotate the camshaft 122.

[0120] The first transmission unit 123 rotates the camshaft 122 only in one direction. When the first motor 92 rotates reversely, the cam rotates by the first transmission unit 123, and when the first motor 92 rotates forward, the cam does not rotate. In this way, in the first pump unit 82, the first motor 92 can drive the first pump 93 and the switching unit 94.

[0121] The first transmission unit 123 has an output pinion 124. The output pinion 124 is attached to the first motor 92. Specifically, the output pinion 124 is attached to the shaft of the first motor 92.

[0122] The first transmission unit 123 has an output belt 125. The output belt 125 is wound around the output pinion 124. The output belt 125 rotates together with the output pinion 124. The output belt 125 transmits the torque of the output pinion 124.

[0123] The first transmission unit 123 has a plurality of gears. In one example, the first transmission unit 123 has an output gear 126, a transmission gear 127, a connecting gear 128, an intermediate gear 129, and a cam gear 130.

[0124] The output gear 126 is connected to the output pinion 124. Specifically, an output belt 125 is wound around the output gear 126. Through the output belt 125, the output gear 126 is connected to the output pinion 124. The output gear 126 rotates together with the output pinion 124. The output gear 126 may be positioned so as to directly mesh with the output pinion 124.

[0125] The transmission gear 127 is connected to the output gear 126. The transmission gear 127 rotates together with the output gear 126. The transmission gear 127 is supported by a transmission shaft 131 described later. The connecting gear 128 is connected to the transmission gear 127. The connecting gear 128 is supported by the transmission shaft 131. That is, the connecting gear 128 is positioned coaxially with the transmission gear 127. The connecting gear 128 rotates together with the transmission shaft 131.

[0126] The relay gear 129 is connected to the connecting gear 128. The relay gear 129 meshes with the connecting gear 128. The relay gear 129 rotates together with the connecting gear 128. The cam gear 130 is connected to the relay gear 129. The cam gear 130 meshes with the relay gear 129. The cam gear 130 rotates together with the relay gear 129.

[0127] The first transmission unit 123 has a transmission shaft 131. The transmission shaft 131 transmits the torque of the transmission gear 127 to the connecting gear 128. The transmission shaft 131 rotates as the transmission gear 127 rotates. Specifically, the transmission shaft 131 rotates together with the transmission gear 127 when the first motor 92 rotates in the reverse direction. The transmission shaft 131 does not rotate when the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction.

[0128] As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the transmission shaft 131 has a transmission support portion 132 and a connection support portion 133. The transmission support portion 132 is a portion that supports the transmission gear 127. The transmission support portion 132 is inserted into the transmission gear 127. The connection support portion 133 is a portion that supports the connection gear 128. The connection support portion 133 is inserted into the connection gear 128. In one example, the connection support portion 133 has a smaller diameter than the transmission support portion 132.

[0129] The connection support portion 133 has a D-shaped configuration when viewed in the axial direction of the transmission shaft 131. The axial hole of the connection gear 128 has a corresponding configuration. Thereby, the connection gear 128 rotates integrally with the transmission shaft 131.

[0130] As shown in FIG. 22, the first transmission unit 123 has a one-way clutch 134. The one-way clutch 134 is configured to transmit power when the first motor 92 rotates in the reverse direction. For example, the one-way clutch 134 is attached to the transmission gear 127. The one-way clutch 134 is supported by the transmission shaft 131 together with the transmission gear 127. The one-way clutch 134 transmits power from the transmission gear 127 to the transmission shaft 131 when the first motor 92 rotates in the reverse direction. For example, the one-way clutch 134 rotates together with the transmission gear 127 when the first motor 92 rotates in the reverse direction. As the one-way clutch 134 rotates, the transmission shaft 131 rotates.

[0131] The one-way clutch 134 does not transmit power from the transmission gear 127 to the transmission shaft 131 when the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction. For example, the one-way clutch 134 does not rotate with respect to the transmission gear 127 when the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction. That is, the one-way clutch 134 remains stationary when the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction. Therefore, when the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction, power is not transmitted to the switching unit 94.

[0132] The one-way clutch 134 rotates together with the transmission gear 127 when the transmission gear 127 rotates in the direction corresponding to the reverse rotation of the first motor 92. The one-way clutch 134 may be attached not only to the transmission gear 127 but also to other gears.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 19, the first pump unit 82 has a detection unit 135. The detection unit 135 is configured to detect the rotation angle of the first motor 92. In one example, the detection unit 135 detects the rotation angle of the camshaft 122. The detection unit 135 detects the rotation angle of the first motor 92 based on the rotation angle of the camshaft 122. The phase of the cam is accurately controlled by the detection unit 135.

[0134] The detection unit 135 has a photosensor unit 136. The photosensor unit 136 detects the rotation angle of the first motor 92. In one example, the photosensor unit 136 detects the rotation angle of the camshaft 122. Specifically, the photosensor unit 136 detects the reference angle of the camshaft 122.

[0135] The photosensor unit 136 has a photo interrupter 137 and a shielding plate 138. The photo interrupter 137 is attached to the valve base 108. The photo interrupter 137 detects the shielding plate 138. The shielding plate 138 is attached to the camshaft 122. The shielding plate 138 rotates together with the camshaft 122. The shielding plate 138 passes through the photo interrupter 137 during rotation. At this time, the shielding plate 138 is detected by the photo interrupter 137. By the photo interrupter 137 detecting the shielding plate 138, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is detected. Specifically, the reference angle of the camshaft 122 is detected.

[0136] The detection unit 135 has a rotary encoder 139. The rotary encoder 139 detects the rotation angle of the first motor 92. In one example, the rotary encoder 139 detects the rotation angle of the camshaft 122. Specifically, the rotary encoder 139 detects the rotation amount of the camshaft 122.

[0137] The rotary encoder 139 has an encoder 140 and a scale 141. The encoder 140 is attached to the valve base 108. The encoder 140 reads the scale 141. The scale 141 is attached to the camshaft 122. The scale 141 rotates together with the camshaft 122. At this time, the scale 141 is read by the encoder 140. Thereby, the rotary encoder 139 detects the amount of rotation of the camshaft 122.

[0138] The detection unit 135 detects the amount of rotation of the camshaft 122 from the reference angle. Thereby, the detection unit 135 detects the rotation angle of the camshaft 122. When the first motor 92 rotates in the reverse direction by the detection unit 135, the rotation angle of the first motor 92 is accurately controlled. In one example, when the camshaft 122 is at the reference angle, the pump cam 118 closes the pump valve 109, the opening cam 119 opens the opening valve 110, the pressurizing cam 120 opens the pressurizing valve 111, and the choke cam 121 opens the choke valve 112. When the camshaft 122 rotates from the reference angle, the phases of the plurality of cams change respectively.

[0139] The detection unit 135 may be composed of only the photosensor unit 136. In this case, it is preferable that a plurality of slits corresponding to the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 are formed in the shielding plate 138. Thereby, the photointerrupter 137 can detect the rotation angle corresponding to the slit.

[0140] The first pump unit 82 is controlled by the control unit 42. Specifically, the first motor 92 is controlled by the control unit 42. When the first motor 92 rotates in the reverse direction, it is PID-controlled by the control unit 42 based on the detection result by the detection unit 135. Thereby, the phase of the cam is accurately controlled. When the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction, it is open-controlled by the control unit 42. When the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction, the camshaft 122 does not rotate. Therefore, the detection unit 135 cannot detect the rotation angle. Also, when the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction, only the first pump 93 is driven. Therefore, when the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction, it is not necessary to finely control the rotation angle of the first motor 92.

[0141] As shown in FIG. 23, the second pump unit 83 has a motor. Specifically, the second pump unit 83 has a second motor 142. The second motor 142 is configured to rotate in both the forward and reverse directions. In one example, the second motor 142 is configured to be able to extract power from both shafts, similar to the first motor 92.

[0142] The second pump unit 83 has a pump. Specifically, the second pump unit 83 has a second pump 143. The second pump 143 changes the pressure in the housing portion 28. In one example, the second pump 143 is a vacuum pump. The second pump 143 may also be a pressure pump.

[0143] The second pump 143 is connected to the second motor 142. The second pump 143 is driven by the power of the second motor 142. When the second motor 142 is driven, the second pump 143 is also driven. In one example, when the second motor 142 rotates forward or when it rotates in the reverse direction, the second pump 143 is driven to generate a negative pressure.

[0144] The second pump 143 is configured to change the pressure at at least one of the plurality of connection destinations of the pressure variable unit 81. The second pump 143 is connected to at least one of the plurality of connection destinations of the pressure variable unit 81. That is, the second pump 143 is connected to at least one of the plurality of connection destinations of the first pump 93. In one example, the second pump 143 is connected to all of the plurality of connection destinations of the first pump 93. The second pump 143 is connected to the plurality of accommodating portions 28. The second pump 143 is connected to the on-off valve 52, the pressurizing portion 53, and the flow path pump 71. Therefore, the pressure variable unit 81 can change the pressure in the accommodating portion 28 by the cooperation of the first pump 93 and the second pump 143.

[0145] The second pump unit 83 has an atmosphere release portion 144. The atmosphere release portion 144 is connected to the plurality of connection destinations of the pressure variable unit 81. The atmosphere release portion 144 is configured to release the plurality of connection destinations to the atmosphere. That is, the atmosphere release portion 144 releases the accommodating portion 28 to the atmosphere. Specifically, the atmosphere release portion 144 releases the air chamber C2 to the atmosphere. In one example, the atmosphere release portion 144 releases the choke air chamber C6, the pressurized air chamber C8, the pump air chamber C13, etc. to the atmosphere.

[0146] The atmosphere release portion 144 has an atmosphere release base 145, an atmosphere release valve 146, and an atmosphere release lever 147. The atmosphere release base 145 is configured such that the inside of the atmosphere release base 145 communicates with the atmosphere. The atmosphere release valve 146 is attached to the atmosphere release base 145. The atmosphere release valve 146 opens and closes the atmosphere release base 145. When the atmosphere release valve 146 opens, the atmosphere release base 145 is released to the atmosphere. The atmosphere release lever 147 is attached to the atmosphere release base 145. The atmosphere release lever 147 is connected to the atmosphere release valve 146. The atmosphere release lever 147 lifts the atmosphere release valve 146. Thereby, the atmosphere release valve 146 opens.

[0147] The atmosphere release part 144 is configured to close when the second motor 142 rotates in the forward direction. The atmosphere release part 144 is configured to open when the second motor 142 rotates in the reverse direction. Specifically, when power is transmitted from the second motor 142, the atmosphere release part 144 closes when the second motor 142 rotates forward, and opens when the second motor 142 rotates in reverse.

[0148] The second pump unit 83 has a transmission part. Specifically, the second pump unit 83 has a second transmission part 148. The second transmission part 148 is located between the second motor 142 and the atmosphere release part 144. Specifically, the second transmission part 148 is located between the second motor 142 and the atmosphere release part 144 in the path through which the power of the second motor 142 is transmitted.

[0149] The second transmission part 148 is configured to transmit the power of the second motor 142 to the atmosphere release part 144. Specifically, the second transmission part 148 transmits the power of the second motor 142 to the atmosphere release lever 147. The second transmission part 148 operates the atmosphere release lever 147 by the power of the second motor 142. Thereby, the atmosphere release valve 146 opens and closes.

[0150] The second transmission part 148 is configured to make the opening and closing of the atmosphere release valve 146 correspond to the rotation direction of the second motor 142. When the second motor 142 rotates in the forward direction, the second transmission part 148 closes the atmosphere release valve 146. When the second motor 142 rotates in the reverse direction, the second transmission part 148 opens the atmosphere release valve 146. Thus, in the second pump unit 83, the second motor 142 can drive the second pump 143 and drive the atmosphere release part 144.

[0151] The second transmission part 148 has a drive pinion 149. The drive pinion 149 is attached to the second motor 142. Specifically, the drive pinion 149 is attached to the shaft of the second motor 142.

[0152] The second transmission unit 148 has a drive belt 150. The drive belt 150 is wound around a drive pinion 149. The drive belt 150 rotates together with the drive pinion 149. The drive belt 150 transmits the power of the drive pinion 149.

[0153] The second transmission unit 148 has a plurality of gears. In one example, the second transmission unit 148 has a drive gear 151 and a connecting gear 152. The drive gear 151 is connected to the drive pinion 149. Specifically, the drive belt 150 is wound around the drive gear 151. Through the drive belt 150, the drive gear 151 is connected to the drive pinion 149. The drive gear 151 rotates together with the drive pinion 149. The drive gear 151 may be positioned to directly mesh with the drive pinion 149.

[0154] The connecting gear 152 is connected to the drive gear 151. The connecting gear 152 rotates together with the drive gear 151. The connecting gear 152 is supported by a connecting shaft 153 described later. The second transmission unit 148 has a connecting shaft 153. The connecting shaft 153 rotates together with the connecting gear 152.

[0155] The second transmission unit 148 has a friction clutch 154. The friction clutch 154 is supported by the connecting shaft 153. The friction clutch 154 is configured to slip with respect to the connecting shaft 153 when a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined value acts.

[0156] The second transmission unit 148 has an air release cam 155. The air release cam 155 is attached to the friction clutch 154. The air release cam 155 rotates together with the friction clutch 154.

[0157] The air release cam 155 contacts the air release lever 147. The air release cam 155 pushes down the air release lever 147. Thereby, the air release valve 146 opens. The atmosphere release cam 155 operates the atmosphere release lever 147 so that the atmosphere release portion 144 closes when the second motor 142 rotates in the forward direction. That is, the atmosphere release cam 155 does not push down the atmosphere release lever 147 when the second motor 142 rotates in the forward direction. When the atmosphere release cam 155 does not push down the atmosphere release lever 147, the atmosphere release valve 146 closes the atmosphere release base 145 by the action of its own weight, a spring, etc. The atmosphere release cam 155 operates the atmosphere release lever 147 so that the atmosphere release portion 144 opens when the second motor 142 rotates in the reverse direction. That is, the atmosphere release cam 155 pushes down the atmosphere release lever 147 when the second motor 142 rotates in the reverse direction.

[0158] The phase of the atmosphere release cam 155 is restricted to a predetermined range by the friction clutch 154. Therefore, the phase of the atmosphere release cam 155 is maintained in a state where it does not push down the atmosphere release lever 147 when the second motor 142 rotates in the forward direction. The phase of the atmosphere release cam 155 is maintained in a state where it pushes down the atmosphere release lever 147 when the second motor 142 rotates in the reverse direction. For example, the phase of the atmosphere release cam 155 is restricted by the atmosphere release cam 155 coming into contact with a restricting member (not shown). At this time, the friction clutch 154 slips with respect to the connection shaft 153.

[0159] As shown in FIG. 24, the first pump unit 82 and the second pump unit 83 are connected to each other. The second pump unit 83 is connected between the first pump unit 82 and the flow path pump 71. Specifically, the second pump 143 is connected between the first pump 93 and the flow path pump 71. That is, the second pump 143 is connected to the flow path pump pipe 103. The second pump 143 is connected to the pump air pipe 75. The first pump 93 and the second pump 143 are always in communication with the flow path pump 71. When the selector valve 107 opens, the first pump 93 and the second pump 143 communicate with the fluid portion 27. The specific operation of the pressure variable unit 81 will be described later.

[0160] As shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6, and 7, the liquid supply unit 30 has a supply channel 161. The supply channel 161 is a channel through which liquid flows. Specifically, the supply channel 161 is a channel through which liquid flows toward the liquid ejection unit 22. Through the supply channel 161, liquid is supplied to the ejection portion 23. The supply channel 161 is connected to the liquid container 20 and the liquid ejection unit 22. Specifically, the supply channel 161 is connected to the liquid container 20 and the flow portion 27. In one example, the supply channel 161 is connected to the mounting portion 18 and the ejection joint 54. The supply channel 161 is connected to the housing portion 28 such as the on-off valve 52 and the pressurizing portion 53 through the ejection joint 54. The supply channel 161 communicates with the liquid chamber C1.

[0161] The liquid supply unit 30 has an air channel 162. The air channel 162 is a channel through which air flows. The air channel 162 is connected to the pressure variable unit 81. Specifically, the air channel 162 is connected to the pump unit. More specifically, the air channel 162 is connected to the pump. In one example, the air channel 162 is connected to the first pump 93 and the second pump 143.

[0162] The air channel 162 is connected to a plurality of connection destinations of the pressure variable unit 81. The pressure variable unit 81 is connected to the plurality of connection destinations by the air channel 162. The air channel 162 is connected to the housing portion 28. In one example, the air channel 162 is connected to a plurality of housing portions 28. The air channel 162 is connected to the on-off valve 52, the pressurizing portion 53, and the channel pump 71. Through the air channel 162, the pressure reduction by the pump unit acts on the on-off valve 52, the pressurizing portion 53, and the channel pump 71. The air channel 162 communicates with the air chamber C2.

[0163] The supply channel 161 and the air channel 162 each have a fixed portion and a movable portion. The supply channel 161 has a first fixed portion 163 and a first movable portion 164. The air channel 162 has a second fixed portion 165 and a second movable portion 166. The fixed portion is a portion fixed to the housing 12. The movable portion is a portion that deforms as the liquid ejection unit 22 moves in the scanning direction D1.

[0164] The first fixed part 163 is connected to the mounting part 18 and a relay joint 168 described later. Since the positional relationship between the mounting part 18 and the relay joint 168 does not change, the first fixed part 163 does not deform.

[0165] The first movable part 164 is connected to the relay joint 168 and the liquid discharge unit 22. Specifically, the first movable part 164 is connected to the relay joint 168 and the flow part 27. The first movable part 164 is connected to the relay joint 168 and the discharge joint 54. When the liquid discharge unit 22 moves, the positional relationship between the relay joint 168 and the discharge joint 54 changes. Therefore, the first movable part 164 deforms.

[0166] The second fixed part 165 is connected to the flow path pump 71 and the pump unit. Specifically, the second fixed part 165 is connected to the flow path pump 71, the first pump unit 82, and the second pump unit 83. The second fixed part 165 extends from the flow path pump 71 toward the first pump unit 82. The second fixed part 165 is connected to the second pump unit 83 while extending from the flow path pump 71 toward the first pump unit 82. Since the positional relationship among the flow path pump 71, the first pump unit 82, and the second pump unit 83 does not change, the second fixed part 165 does not deform.

[0167] The second movable part 166 is connected to the relay joint 168 and the liquid discharge unit 22. Specifically, the second movable part 166 is connected to the relay joint 168 and the flow part 27. The second movable part 166 is connected to the relay joint 168 and the discharge joint 54. Similar to the first movable part 164, when the liquid discharge unit 22 moves, the second movable part 166 deforms.

[0168] The liquid supply unit 30 has a guide member 167. The guide member 167 is configured to guide the supply flow path 161 and the air flow path 162. The guide member 167 is fixed to the housing 12. The guide member 167 guides the fixed portions. The guide member 167 guides the first fixed portion 163 from the flow path pump 71 to the relay joint 168. The guide member 167 guides the second fixed portion 165 from the flow path pump 71 to the first pump unit 82. The guide member 167 guides the second fixed portion 165 from the second pump unit 83 to the first pump unit 82.

[0169] The liquid supply unit 30 has a relay joint 168. The relay joint 168 is configured to relay the supply flow path 161 and the air flow path 162. The relay joint 168 is located in the middle of the supply flow path 161. The relay joint 168 is located in the middle of the air flow path 162. The relay joint 168 is attached to the frame 32, for example.

[0170] The relay joint 168 is connected to the first pump unit 82. Specifically, the relay joint 168 is connected to the pressure tube 105 and the choke tube 106. The relay joint 168 is connected to the pressure tube 105 and the choke tube 106 via a tube, for example.

[0171] As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, the liquid supply unit 30 has a plurality of flexible members. Specifically, the supply flow path 161 and the air flow path 162 each have a flexible member. Specifically, the supply flow path 161 has a first flexible member 169. The air flow path 162 has a second flexible member 170. The flexible member is a member having flexibility. The flexible member is a tube. The first flexible member 169 is a liquid tube. In one example, the first flexible member 169 is a multi-tube. The second flexible member 170 is an air tube.

[0172] The flexible member constitutes a movable part. The first flexible member 169 constitutes the first movable part 164. The second flexible member 170 constitutes the second movable part 166. Therefore, the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 deform as the liquid discharge unit 22 moves. The fixed part may be composed of a flexible member like the movable part, or may be composed of a rigid member with rigidity. The rigid member is, for example, a pipe. In one example, the first fixed part 163 and the second fixed part 165 are each composed of a flexible member.

[0173] The first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 extend so as to be aligned. The first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 extend from the relay joint 168 toward the liquid discharge unit 22. The first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 extend while bending. By aligning the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170, an increase in the arrangement space of the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 is suppressed.

[0174] The first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 each have a stretching part and a bending part. The first flexible member 169 has a first stretching part 171 and a first bending part 172. The second flexible member 170 has a second stretching part 173 and a second bending part 174. The stretching part is a part that extends in the scanning direction D1. Specifically, the stretching part is a part that extends linearly from the relay joint 168. The bending part is a part that bends in an arc shape from the stretching part toward the liquid discharge unit 22. As the liquid discharge unit 22 moves, the lengths of the stretching part and the bending part change. In one example, as the liquid discharge unit 22 moves in the scanning direction D1, the stretching part becomes shorter and the bending part becomes longer.

[0175] The elasticity of the first flexible member 169 is greater than that of the second flexible member 170. This is because a higher barrier property is required for the first flexible member 169 than for the second flexible member 170. In the first flexible member 169, a thick-walled tube is employed to prevent air from entering the liquid. Therefore, the first flexible member 169 may be less deformable than the second flexible member 170.

[0176] The first flexible member 169 extends while being aligned so as to have a smaller curvature than the second flexible member 170. That is, the first flexible member 169 bends so as to pass outside the second flexible member 170. As a result, the curvature of the first flexible member 169 becomes smaller than the curvature of the second flexible member 170. By reducing the curvature of the first flexible member 169, the reaction force acting on the liquid discharge unit 22 is reduced.

[0177] As shown in FIG. 26, the upstream end of the first flexible member 169 and the upstream end of the second flexible member 170 are located on one side with respect to the center of the movement region A1. Specifically, the upstream end of the first flexible member 169 and the upstream end of the second flexible member 170 are located on one side of the center line L1 in the scanning direction D1. The center line L1 is an imaginary line that bisects the movement region A1 in the scanning direction D1. That is, the upstream end of the first flexible member 169 and the upstream end of the second flexible member 170 are located together in the scanning direction D1. This is because the relay joint 168 is located on one side of the center line L1. Since the upstream ends of the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 are located together, the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 can be easily removed.

[0178] By arranging the upstream ends of the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 together, the possibility that the length of the first flexible member 169 and the length of the second flexible member 170 deviate greatly from each other is reduced. By making the length of the first flexible member 169 and the length of the second flexible member 170 close to each other, it becomes easier to align the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170. Thereby, the space occupied by the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 can be reduced.

[0179] In the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170, since they deform as the liquid discharge unit 22 moves, there is a risk of rubbing against other members. In this case, the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 may wear out.

[0180] As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, the liquid supply unit 30 has one or more bundling members 175. In one example, the liquid supply unit 30 has two bundling members 175. The bundling member 175 is a member that bundles the supply flow path 161 and the air flow path 162. The bundling member 175 bundles the first movable part 164 and the second movable part 166. The bundling member 175 bundles the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170. The bundling member 175 bundles the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 so that they do not contact each other. Thereby, the risk that the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 rub against each other is reduced.

[0181] As shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, the bundling member 175 has a holding part 176. The holding part 176 holds the first flexible member 169. The holding part 176 holds the first flexible member 169 by sandwiching the first flexible member 169. Therefore, even if the first flexible member 169 deforms, the holding part 176 and the first flexible member 169 do not rub against each other. Thus, the risk that the first flexible member 169 wears out is reduced. The holding part 176 is, for example, a clamp.

[0182] The end body 175 has a support portion 177. The support portion 177 extends from the holding portion 176. The support portion 177 extends from the holding portion 176 so as to approach the liquid discharge unit 22. The support portion 177 shown in FIGS. 27 and 28 extends downward.

[0183] The support portion 177 supports the second flexible member 170. The support portion 177 supports the second flexible member 170 so as to space the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 apart. The support portion 177 supports the second flexible member 170 so as to align the second flexible member 170 along the first flexible member 169. The support portion 177 supports, for example, the second flexible member 170 so as to suspend the second flexible member 170 with respect to the first flexible member 169.

[0184] The support portion 177 has an arm 178. The arm 178 extends from the holding portion 176. The arm 178 extends from the holding portion 176 so as to approach the liquid discharge unit 22. The support portion 177 has a pulley 179. The pulley 179 is attached to the arm 178. The pulley 179 is rotatable with respect to the arm 178. The pulley 179 contacts the second flexible member 170. The pulley 179 supports the second flexible member 170.

[0185] The pulley 179 has flanges 180 at both axial ends thereof. By the flanges 180, the pulley 179 is configured such that the diameters at both ends in its axial direction are larger than the diameter at the center. Thereby, the risk that the second flexible member 170 drops off from the pulley 179 is reduced. The risk that the second flexible member 170 contacts the arm 178 is reduced. Thereby, the risk that the second flexible member 170 wears out is reduced.

[0186] The flange 180 may have an inclined surface 181. The inclined surface 181 inclines such that the diameter of the flange 180 becomes smaller toward the center in the axial direction. Thereby, the second flexible member 170 is likely to be concentrated at the center of the pulley 179.

[0187] As shown in FIGS. 29, 30, and 31, the bundling body 175 may hold the first extension portion 171 or the first bending portion 172 with respect to the first flexible member 169. The bundling body 175 holds the first extension portion 171 or the first bending portion 172 according to the position of the liquid discharge unit 22. In one example, when the liquid discharge unit 22 is in the standby position, the two bundling bodies 175 hold the first extension portion 171. When the liquid discharge unit 22 is in the folded-back position, the two bundling bodies 175 hold the first bending portion 172. When the liquid discharge unit 22 is located between the standby position and the folded-back position, one of the two bundling bodies 175 holds the first extension portion 171 and the other holds the first bending portion 172.

[0188] The bundling body 175 may support the second extension portion 173 or the second bending portion 174 with respect to the second flexible member 170. The bundling body 175 supports the second extension portion 173 or the second bending portion 174 according to the position of the liquid discharge unit 22. In one example, when the liquid discharge unit 22 is in the standby position, the two bundling bodies 175 support the second extension portion 173. When the liquid discharge unit 22 is in the folded-back position, the two bundling bodies 175 hold the second bending portion 174. When the liquid discharge unit 22 is located between the standby position and the folded-back position, one of the two bundling bodies 175 holds the second extension portion 173 and the other holds the second bending portion 174.

[0189] In the binding body 175 where the holding part 176 holds the first extension part 171, the support part 177 supports the second flexible member 170 at a position closer to the liquid discharge unit 22 than the holding part 176. This is because the support part 177 extends so as to approach the liquid discharge unit 22 from the holding part 176. For example, the support part 177 supports the second flexible member 170 below the holding part 176. In one example, when the liquid discharge unit 22 is in the standby position, the two binding bodies 175 are positioned such that the holding part 176 holds the first extension part 171 and the support part 177 supports the second flexible member 170 below the holding part 176. When the liquid discharge unit 22 is positioned between the standby position and the folded-back position, one binding body 175 is positioned such that the holding part 176 holds the first extension part 171 and the support part 177 supports the second flexible member 170 below the holding part 176.

[0190] When the second flexible member 170 deforms as the liquid discharge unit 22 moves, the positional relationship between the pulley 179 and the second flexible member 170 changes. At this time, the pulley 179 rotates due to friction with the second flexible member 170. Therefore, the risk that the pulley 179 rubs against the second flexible member 170 is reduced. Thus, the risk that the second flexible member 170 wears out is reduced.

[0191] <Operation of the pressure variable unit> Next, the operation of the pressure variable unit 81 will be described. The pressure variable unit 81 is controlled by the control unit 42.

[0192] As shown in FIG. 32, when the control unit 42 executes pressure cleaning, the control unit 42 operates the pressure variable unit 81 from step S1 to step S12. Steps S1 to S12 respectively indicate the states of the pressure variable unit 81. The control unit 42 rotates the camshaft 122 once from step S1 to step S12. In one example, the state of the selector valve 107 changes every time the camshaft 122 rotates 45°.

[0193] Step S1 indicates the standby state of the pressure variable unit 81. When the pressure cleaning is not executed, the pressure variable unit 81 waits in the state of Step S1. In Step S1, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is 0°. In Step S1, the camshaft 122 waits at the reference angle. In Step S1, the first motor 92 and the second motor 142 are stopped. In Step S1, the release valve 110, the choke valve 112, and the pressure valve 111 are open. Therefore, in Step S1, the choke air chamber C6 and the pressure air chamber C8 are opened to the atmosphere. In Step S1, the pump valve 109 is closed. Therefore, in Step S1, the first pump 93 and the second pump 143 are blocked from the flow part 27. In Step S1, the atmosphere release part 144 is open.

[0194] When the control unit 42 starts the pressure cleaning, the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the reverse direction. At this time, the control unit 42 rotates the camshaft 122 by 45°. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from Step S1 to Step S2.

[0195] In Step S2, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is 45°. In Step S2, the release valve 110 and the choke valve 112 are closed. In Step S2, the pressure valve 111 and the pump valve 109 are open. Therefore, in Step S2, the pressure part 53 communicates with the first pump 93 and the second pump 143.

[0196] Next, the control unit 42 stops the first motor 92. The control unit 42 rotates the second motor 142 in the forward direction. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from Step S2 to Step S3.

[0197] In Step S3, when the second motor 142 rotates in the forward direction, the atmosphere release part 144 is closed. In Step S3, the second pump 143 makes the pressure air chamber C8 have a negative pressure. As a result, the liquid flows into the pressure liquid chamber C7.

[0198] Next, the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the reverse direction. At this time, the control unit 42 rotates the camshaft 122 by 45°. The control unit 42 stops the second motor 142. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S3 to step S4.

[0199] In step S4, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is 90°. In step S4, the open valve 110, the choke valve 112, and the pressure valve 111 close. When the pressure valve 111 closes, the pressurized air chamber C8 is maintained at a negative pressure.

[0200] Next, the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the reverse direction. At this time, the control unit 42 rotates the camshaft 122 by 45°. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S4 to step S5.

[0201] In step S5, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is 135°. In step S5, the open valve 110 and the pressure valve 111 close. In step S5, the choke valve 112 and the pump valve 109 open. Therefore, the first pump 93 and the second pump 143 communicate with the on-off valve 52. Thus, the choke air chamber C6 becomes negative pressure by the first pump 93.

[0202] Next, the control unit 42 stops the first motor 92. The control unit 42 rotates the second motor 142 in the forward direction. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S5 to step S6.

[0203] In step S6, the choke air chamber C6 becomes negative pressure by the second pump 143. As the choke air chamber C6 is depressurized from step S5 to step S6, the on-off valve 52 closes.

[0204] Next, the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the reverse direction. At this time, the control unit 42 rotates the camshaft 122 by 45°. The control unit 42 stops the second motor 142. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S6 to step S7.

[0205] In step S7, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is 180°. In step S7, the open valve 110, the choke valve 112, and the pressure valve 111 close. When the choke valve 112 closes, the choke air chamber C6 is maintained at a negative pressure. Therefore, the on-off valve 52 is maintained in the closed state.

[0206] Next, the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the reverse direction. At this time, the control unit 42 rotates the camshaft 122 by 45°. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S7 to step S8.

[0207] In step S8, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is 225°. In step S8, the open valve 110 and the pressure valve 111 open. Therefore, the pressurized air chamber C8 is opened to the atmosphere. As a result, the liquid is pushed out from the pressurized liquid chamber C7 toward the discharge part 23. That is, the liquid is forcibly discharged from the nozzle 25.

[0208] Next, the control unit 42 stops the first motor 92. The control unit 42 rotates the second motor 142 in the reverse direction. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S8 to step S9.

[0209] In step S9, when the second motor 142 rotates in the reverse direction, the atmosphere release part 144 opens. Therefore, in step S9, the pressurized air chamber C8 is opened to the atmosphere through the open pipe 104 and the atmosphere release part 144.

[0210] Next, the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the reverse direction. At this time, the control unit 42 rotates the camshaft 122 by 45°. The control unit 42 stops the second motor 142. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S9 to step S10.

[0211] In step S10, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is 270°. In step S10, the open valve 110 and the pump valve 109 open. In step S10, the choke valve 112 and the pressure valve 111 close. When the pressure valve 111 closes, the first pump 93 and the second pump 143 are blocked from the pressurizing unit 53.

[0212] Next, the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the reverse direction. At this time, the control unit 42 rotates the camshaft 122 by 45°. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S10 to step S11.

[0213] In step S11, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is 315°. In step S11, the open valve 110 and the choke valve 112 open. In step S11, the pressure valve 111 and the pump valve 109 close. When the choke valve 112 opens, the choke air chamber C6 is opened to the atmosphere. As a result, the on-off valve 52 opens.

[0214] Next, the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the reverse direction. At this time, the control unit 42 rotates the camshaft 122 by 45°. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S11 to step S12.

[0215] In step S12, the rotation angle of the camshaft 122 is 360°, that is, 0°. Therefore, in step S12, the camshaft 122 makes one full rotation. In step S12, the open valve 110, the choke valve 112, and the pressure valve 111 open. In step S12, the pump valve 109 closes.

[0216] Finally, the control unit 42 stops the first motor 92. As a result, the state of the pressure variable unit 81 shifts from step S12 to step S1. The control unit 42 ends the pressure cleaning by stopping the first motor 92.

[0217] When the control unit 42 executes the liquid supply operation, it drives the flow path pump 71. The liquid supply operation is an operation of supplying liquid from the liquid container 20 to the liquid discharge unit 22. In the liquid supply operation, the control unit 42 does not operate the switching unit 94. For example, when the control unit 42 executes the liquid supply operation, it rotates the first motor 92 in the forward direction or stops the first motor 92. The control unit 42 alternately repeats the forward rotation of the first motor 92 and the stop of the first motor 92. The control unit 42 rotates the second motor 142 in the forward direction or rotates the second motor 142 in the reverse direction. When the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the forward direction, it rotates the second motor 142 in the forward direction. When the control unit 42 stops the first motor 92, it rotates the second motor 142 in the reverse direction. As a result, the pump air chamber C13 is depressurized or opened to the atmospheric pressure.

[0218] <Actions and Effects of the Embodiment> Next, the actions and effects of the above embodiment will be described. (1) The first transmission unit 123 is configured not to transmit power from the first motor 92 to the switching unit 94 when the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction, and to transmit power from the first motor 92 to the switching unit 94 when the first motor 92 rotates in the reverse direction. According to the above configuration, the driving of the first pump 93 and the driving of the switching unit 94 are executed by one first motor 92. As a result, the risk of the pressure variable unit 81 becoming larger in size is reduced.

[0219] (2) The switching unit 94 has a plurality of valves respectively positioned between a plurality of connection destinations and the first pump 93. The switching unit 94 has a pump valve 109, an open valve 110, a pressure valve 111, and a choke valve 112. The switching unit 94 has a plurality of cams for opening and closing the plurality of valves respectively. The switching unit 94 has a pump cam 118, an open cam 119, a pressure cam 120, and a choke cam 121. According to the above configuration, the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the first pump 93 can be switched with a relatively simple configuration.

[0220] (3) The first transmission unit 123 has a one-way clutch 134. According to the above configuration, with a relatively simple configuration, power is not transmitted from the first motor 92 to the switching unit 94 when the first motor 92 rotates in the forward direction, and power can be transmitted from the first motor 92 to the switching unit 94 when the first motor 92 rotates in the reverse direction.

[0221] (4) The pressure variable unit 81 has a second motor 142, a second pump 143, an atmosphere release unit 144, and a second transmission unit 148. The second pump 143 is driven by the power of the second motor 142. The atmosphere release unit 144 is connected to a plurality of connection destinations and releases the plurality of connection destinations to the atmosphere. The second transmission unit 148 is positioned between the second motor 142 and the atmosphere release unit 144 and transmits the power of the second motor 142 to the atmosphere release unit 144. The atmosphere release unit 144 is configured to close when the second motor 142 rotates in the forward direction and open when the second motor 142 rotates in the reverse direction. According to the above configuration, the driving of the second pump 143 and the opening and closing of the atmosphere release unit 144 are executed by one second motor 142. The pressure of the connection destination can be changed by the first pump 93 and the second pump 143, and the pressure of the connection destination can be returned to the atmospheric pressure by the atmosphere release unit 144. In this way, the pressure of the connection destination can be changed more freely.

[0222] (5) When the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the forward direction, it performs open control on the first motor 92. When the control unit 42 rotates the first motor 92 in the reverse direction, it performs PID control on the first motor 92 based on the detection result by the detection unit 135. According to the above configuration, by performing PID control on the first motor 92, the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the first pump 93 can be switched with high precision.

[0223] (6) At least one of the liquid supply unit 30 and the liquid discharge unit 22 has a storage unit 28 for storing liquid. The storage unit 28 has a membrane member 29 that divides the inside of the storage unit 28 into an air chamber C2 and a liquid chamber C1. The plurality of connection destinations include the storage unit 28. The pressure variable unit 81 changes the pressure in the air chamber C2. According to the above configuration, by the pressure variable unit 81 changing the pressure in the air chamber C2, the pressure in the liquid chamber C1 changes. For example, when the liquid chamber C1 is pressurized, liquid is discharged from the liquid chamber C1. When the liquid chamber C1 is depressurized, liquid flows into the liquid chamber C1. Thus, the pressure variable unit 81 can control the flow of liquid by changing the pressure in the air chamber C2.

[0224] (7) Each of the plurality of storage units 28 is provided in the liquid supply unit 30 or the liquid discharge unit 22. The pressure variable unit 81 selectively changes the pressures in the plurality of air chambers C2. According to the above configuration, the pressure variable unit 81 can finely control the flow of liquid.

[0225] (8) The fixing member 41 is detachably attached to and detached from the pressure variable unit 81 and the frame 32 from above. According to the above configuration, by accessing the fixing member 41 from above, it is easy to attach and detach the pressure variable unit 81 to and from the frame 32.

[0226] (9) The upstream end of the first flexible member 169 and the upstream end of the second flexible member 170 are located on one side with respect to the center of the movement region A1 of the liquid discharge unit 22. According to the above configuration, the upstream ends of the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 are arranged together. The first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 extend toward the flow portion 27. Therefore, the possibility that the length of the first flexible member 169 and the length of the second flexible member 170 deviate greatly is reduced. By making the length of the first flexible member 169 and the length of the second flexible member 170 close to each other, it becomes easier to align the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170. Thereby, the space occupied by the first flexible member 169 and the second flexible member 170 can be reduced.

[0227] (10) The bundling body 175 has a holding portion 176 that holds the first flexible member 169 and a support portion 177 that supports the second flexible member 170. The support portion 177 has a pulley 179 that contacts the second flexible member 170. According to the above configuration, the possibility that the second flexible member 170 is damaged by friction with the first flexible member 169 and the bundling body 175 is reduced.

[0228] (11) The pulley 179 has flanges 180 at both axial ends. According to the above configuration, the possibility that the second flexible member 170 contacts a portion other than the pulley 179 is reduced by the flanges 180.

[0229] (12) The first flexible member 169 is a liquid tube that supplies liquid to the liquid discharge unit 22. According to the above configuration, the bundling body 175 can hold the liquid tube. (13) The second flexible member 170 is an air tube that supplies air to the liquid discharge unit 22. According to the above configuration, the possibility that the air tube wears out is reduced.

[0230] (14) The liquid tube has a first extended portion 171 extending in the scanning direction D1 and a first bent portion 172 bent in an arc shape from the first extended portion 171 toward the liquid discharge unit 22. The holding portion 176 holds the first extended portion 171. The support portion 177 supports the air tube at a position closer to the liquid discharge unit 22 than the holding portion 176. According to the above configuration, since the support portion 177 supports the air tube at a position closer to the liquid discharge unit 22 than the holding portion 176, the curvature of the air tube becomes larger than the curvature of the liquid tube. The air tube can be selected from a material with better flexibility due to its barrier property compared to the liquid tube. Therefore, even if the curvature of the air tube becomes larger than the curvature of the liquid tube, there is no problem. By the support portion 177 supporting the air tube at a position closer to the liquid discharge unit 22 than the holding portion 176, the space occupied by the air tube and the liquid tube can be reduced.

[0231] <Modified Example> The embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. The above embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other within a technically non - conflicting range.

[0232] · The bundling body 175 may be applied not only to the liquid discharge unit 22 but also to flexible members connected to other units. That is, the bundling body 175 may be used to bundle a plurality of flexible members connected to a unit moving in the scanning direction D1. The bundling body 175 may be used, for example, to bundle signal lines, flexible flat cables, etc. connected to the unit.

[0233] · As shown in FIG. 33, the switching unit 94 may have a switching body 186. In this modified example, the switching unit 94 has a switching body 186 instead of the flow path member 95. The switching body 186 is located between a plurality of connection destinations of the pressure variable unit 81 and the first pump 93. The switching body 186 is configured to switch the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the first pump 93 by rotating. Similar to the flow path member 95, a pump path P1, an open path P2, a pressurizing path P3, a choke path P4, and a conduction path P5 are defined in the switching body 186.

[0234] The switching body 186 has a switching base material 187 and a rotating body 188. The switching base material 187 has a plurality of switching tubes, similar to the flow path base material 96. The switching base material 187 has a pump tube 102, a flow path pump tube 103, an open tube 104, a pressure tube 105, and a choke tube 106. The rotating body 188 is in close contact with the switching base material 187. The rotating body 188 rotates while being in close contact with the switching base material 187. When the rotating body 188 rotates, the conduction states of the pump tube 102, the flow path pump tube 103, the open tube 104, the pressure tube 105, and the choke tube 106 are switched. For example, when the rotating body 188 rotates, the state switches from the state where the pump tube 102 and the pressure tube 105 are conducting to the state where the pump tube 102 and the choke tube 106 are conducting. According to such a switching body 186, the connection between a plurality of connection destinations and the first pump 93 can be switched with a relatively simple configuration.

[0235] · The liquid discharged by the discharge unit 23 is not limited to ink, and may be, for example, a liquid in which particles of a functional material are dispersed or mixed in a liquid. For example, the discharge unit 23 may discharge a liquid containing a material such as an electrode material or a pixel material used in the manufacture of a liquid crystal display, an electroluminescent display, and a surface-emitting display, in a dispersed or dissolved form.

[0236] <Technical idea> The technical idea and its operational effects grasped from the above-described embodiments and modification examples are described below.

[0237] (A) The pressure variable unit is a pressure variable unit that changes the pressure at a plurality of connection destinations, and includes a motor, a pump connected to the motor and driven by the power of the motor, a switching unit that switches the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump by the power of the motor, and a transmission unit located between the motor and the switching unit. The transmission unit is configured not to transmit power from the motor to the switching unit when the motor rotates in the forward direction, and to transmit power from the motor to the switching unit when the motor rotates in the reverse direction. According to the above configuration, the driving of the pump and the driving of the switching unit are executed by one motor. Thereby, the possibility of the pressure variable unit becoming large-sized is reduced.

[0238] (B) In the above pressure variable unit, the switching unit may include a plurality of valves respectively located between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump, and a plurality of cams that respectively open and close the plurality of valves. According to the above configuration, the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump can be switched with a relatively simple configuration.

[0239] (C) In the above pressure variable unit, the switching unit may include a switching body located between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump and switching the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump by rotating. According to the above configuration, the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump can be switched with a relatively simple configuration.

[0240] (D) In the above pressure variable unit, the transmission unit may include a one-way clutch. According to the above configuration, with a relatively simple configuration, power is not transmitted from the motor to the switching unit when the motor rotates in the forward direction, and power can be transmitted from the motor to the switching unit when the motor rotates in the reverse direction.

[0241] (E) In the pressure variable unit, the motor is a first motor, the pump is a first pump, the transmission part is a first transmission part, and the pressure variable unit includes a second motor, a second pump connected to the second motor and driven by the power of the second motor, an atmosphere release part connected to a plurality of the connection destinations and releasing the plurality of connection destinations to the atmosphere, and a second transmission part located between the second motor and the atmosphere release part and transmitting the power of the second motor to the atmosphere release part. The second pump is configured to change the pressure of at least one of the plurality of connection destinations, and the atmosphere release part may be configured to close when the second motor rotates in the forward direction and open when the second motor rotates in the reverse direction. According to the above configuration, the driving of the second pump and the opening and closing of the atmosphere release part are executed by one second motor. The pressure of the connection destination can be changed by the first pump and the second pump, and the pressure of the connection destination can be returned to the atmospheric pressure by the atmosphere release part. In this way, the pressure of the connection destination can be changed more freely.

[0242] (F) The pressure variable unit includes a detection part for detecting the rotation angle of the motor and a control part for controlling the motor. When the control part rotates the motor in the forward direction, the motor may be open-controlled, and when the control part rotates the motor in the reverse direction, the motor may be PID-controlled based on the detection result by the detection part. According to the above configuration, by PID-controlling the motor, the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump can be switched with high precision.

[0243] (G) The liquid ejection device includes a liquid ejection unit that ejects liquid, and a liquid supply unit that supplies liquid to the liquid ejection unit. The liquid supply unit has a supply flow path through which liquid flows toward the liquid ejection unit, and the pressure variable unit. At least one of the liquid supply unit and the liquid ejection unit has a storage portion that stores liquid. The storage portion has a film member that divides the inside of the storage portion into an air chamber and a liquid chamber. The plurality of connection destinations includes the storage portion. The pressure variable unit changes the pressure of the air chamber. According to the above configuration, when the pressure variable unit changes the pressure of the air chamber, the pressure of the liquid chamber changes. For example, when the liquid chamber is pressurized, liquid is discharged from the liquid chamber. When the liquid chamber is depressurized, liquid flows into the liquid chamber. Thus, the pressure variable unit can control the flow of liquid by changing the pressure of the air chamber.

[0244] (H) In the liquid ejection device, the storage portion is one of a plurality of storage portions. The plurality of storage portions each have an air chamber. Each of the plurality of storage portions is provided in the liquid supply unit or the liquid ejection unit. The plurality of connection destinations includes the plurality of storage portions. The pressure variable unit may selectively change the pressures of the plurality of air chambers. According to the above configuration, the pressure variable unit can finely control the flow of liquid.

[0245] (I) The liquid ejection device includes a frame that supports the pressure variable unit, and a fixing member that fixes the pressure variable unit to the frame. The fixing member may be detachably attached to and detached from the pressure variable unit and the frame from above. According to the above configuration, it is easy to attach and detach the pressure variable unit to and from the frame by accessing the fixing member from above.

[0246] (J) In the liquid ejection device, the liquid supply unit has an air flow path connected to the storage unit and the pump. The liquid ejection unit has a discharge unit that discharges the liquid, a moving body that mounts the discharge unit and is movable in the scanning direction, and a flow unit that is mounted on the moving body and is connected to the supply flow path and the discharge unit. The flow unit has the storage unit. The supply flow path has a first flexible member that deforms as the liquid ejection unit moves in the scanning direction. The air flow path has a second flexible member that deforms as the liquid ejection unit moves in the scanning direction. The upstream end of the first flexible member and the upstream end of the second flexible member may be located on one side with respect to the center of the movement region of the liquid ejection unit. According to the above configuration, the upstream ends of the first flexible member and the second flexible member are arranged together. The first flexible member and the second flexible member extend toward the flow unit. Therefore, the possibility that the length of the first flexible member and the length of the second flexible member deviate greatly is reduced. By making the length of the first flexible member and the length of the second flexible member close to each other, it becomes easier to align the first flexible member and the second flexible member. Thereby, the space occupied by the first flexible member and the second flexible member can be reduced.

[0247] (K) The liquid ejection device includes a binding body that bundles the first flexible member and the second flexible member. The binding body has a holding portion that holds the first flexible member and a support portion that supports the second flexible member. The support portion may have a pulley that contacts the second flexible member. According to the above configuration, the possibility that the second flexible member is damaged by friction with the first flexible member and the binding body is reduced.

[0248] (L) The bundling body is a bundling body that bundles a plurality of flexible members connected to a unit that moves in the scanning direction. The plurality of flexible members include a first flexible member and a second flexible member. The bundling body includes a holding portion that holds the first flexible member and a support portion that movably supports the second flexible member. The support portion has a pulley that contacts the second flexible member. According to the above configuration, the second flexible member is supported by contacting the pulley. When the pulley rotates, the possibility of wear of the second flexible member is reduced. Since the first flexible member is held by the holding portion, there is no possibility of wear of the first flexible member due to contact with the holding portion. Therefore, wear of the flexible member is reduced.

[0249] (M) In the above bundling body, the pulley may have flanges at both axial ends. According to the above configuration, the flanges reduce the possibility of the second flexible member contacting a portion other than the pulley.

[0250] (N) The liquid supply unit is a liquid supply unit that supplies liquid to a liquid discharge unit that discharges liquid. The liquid supply unit includes the above bundling body and a plurality of the flexible members. The unit is the liquid discharge unit, and the first flexible member is a liquid tube that supplies liquid to the liquid discharge unit. According to the above configuration, the bundling body can hold the liquid tube.

[0251] (O) In the above liquid supply unit, the second flexible member may be an air tube that supplies air to the liquid discharge unit. According to the above configuration, the possibility of wear of the air tube is reduced.

[0252] (P) The liquid supply unit is a liquid supply unit that supplies liquid to a liquid discharge unit that discharges liquid, and includes the bundling body and the plurality of flexible members. The unit is the liquid discharge unit. The first flexible member is a liquid tube that supplies liquid to the liquid discharge unit, and the second flexible member is an air tube that supplies air to the liquid discharge unit. According to the above configuration, the bundling body can hold the liquid tube, and the risk of wear of the air tube can be reduced.

[0253] (Q) In the liquid supply unit, the liquid tube has an extending portion extending in the scanning direction and a bent portion bent in an arc shape from the extending portion toward the liquid discharge unit. The holding portion holds the extending portion, and the supporting portion may support the air tube at a position closer to the liquid discharge unit than the holding portion. According to the above configuration, by the supporting portion supporting the air tube at a position closer to the liquid discharge unit than the holding portion, the curvature of the air tube becomes larger than the curvature of the liquid tube. The air tube can select a material with better flexibility from its barrier property compared to the liquid tube. Therefore, even if the curvature of the air tube becomes larger than the curvature of the liquid tube, there is no problem. By the supporting portion supporting the air tube at a position closer to the liquid discharge unit than the holding portion, the space occupied by the air tube and the liquid tube can be reduced.

[0254] (R) The liquid discharge device includes the above liquid supply unit and the liquid discharge unit. According to the above configuration, wear of the flexible member in the liquid discharge device can be reduced. (S) In the above liquid ejection device, the liquid ejection unit includes a discharge part that discharges liquid, a moving body on which the discharge part is mounted and is movable in the scanning direction, and a fluid part that is mounted on the moving body and is connected to the first flexible member. The fluid part has a storage part that stores liquid. The storage part has a film member that divides the inside of the storage part into a liquid chamber and an air chamber. The liquid supply unit has a pressure variable unit. The first flexible member communicates with the liquid chamber, and the second flexible member communicates with the air chamber. The pressure variable unit may change the pressure in the air chamber. According to the above configuration, when the pressure in the air chamber changes, the pressure in the liquid chamber changes. For example, when the liquid chamber is pressurized, liquid is discharged from the liquid chamber. When the liquid chamber is depressurized, liquid flows into the liquid chamber. Thus, by changing the pressure in the air chamber by the pressure variable unit, the flow of liquid can be controlled.

[0255] (T) In the above liquid ejection device, the upstream end of the first flexible member and the upstream end of the second flexible member may be located on one side with respect to the center of the moving region of the liquid ejection unit. According to the above configuration, the upstream end of the first flexible member and the upstream end of the second flexible member are arranged together. The first flexible member and the second flexible member extend toward the fluid part. Therefore, the possibility that the length of the first flexible member and the length of the second flexible member deviate greatly is reduced. By making the length of the first flexible member and the length of the second flexible member close to each other, it becomes easier to align the first flexible member and the second flexible member. Thereby, the space occupied by the first flexible member and the second flexible member can be reduced.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0256] 11…Liquid ejection device, 12…Housing, 13…Discharge port, 14…Reading unit, 15…Operation unit, 16…Discharge tray, 17…Media storage unit, 18…Mounting unit, 19…Mounting body, 20…Liquid storage body, 21…Media support unit, 22…Liquid ejection unit, 23…Ejection part, 24…Nozzle surface, 25…Nozzle, 26…Moving body, 27…Flow part, 28…Storage part, 29…Membrane member, 30…Liquid supply unit, 31…Moving axis, 32…Frame, 33…Support plate, 34…Support part, 35…First support piece, 36…Second support piece, 37…Attachment part, 38…First attachment piece, 39…Second attachment piece, 40…Fixing hole, 41…Fixing member, 42…Control unit, 51…Adjusting valve, 52…On-off valve, 53…Pressurizing part, 54…Discharge joint, 55…Flow member, 56…Choke membrane, 57…Valve part, 58…Operation part, 59…Lever, 60…Shaft part, 61…First part, 62…Second part, 63…Pressurizing membrane, 64…Pressurizing member, 71…Flow path pump, 72…Pump member, 73…Pump inflow pipe, 74…Pump outflow pipe, 75…Pump air pipe, 76…Diaphragm, 77…Pressing member, 81…Pressure variable unit, 82…First pump unit, 83…Second pump unit, 84…Attachment member, 85…Attachment plate, 86…Contact part, 87…First contact piece, 88…Second contact piece, 89…Insertion part, 90…Insertion groove, 91…Base member, 92…First motor, 93…First pump, 94…Switching part, 95…Flow path member, 96…Flow path base material, 97…Cover member, 98…Pump port, 99…Open port, 100…Pressurizing port, 101…Choke port, 102…Pump pipe, 103…Flow path pump pipe, 104…Open pipe, 105…Pressurizing pipe, 106…Choke pipe, 107…Selector valve, 108…Valve base, 109…Pump valve, 110…Open valve, 111…Pressurizing valve, 112…Choke valve, 113…Pump valve lever, 114…Open valve lever, 115…Pressurizing valve lever, 116…Choke valve lever, 117…Cam unit, 118…Pump cam, 119…Open cam, 120…Pressurizing cam, 121…Choke cam, 122…Cam shaft, 123…First transmission part, 124…Output pinion, 125…Output belt, 126…Output gear, 127…Transmission gear, 128…Connecting gear, 129…Relay gear, 130…Cam gear, 131…Transmission shaft, 132…Transmission support part, 133…Connecting support part, 134…One-way clutch, 135…Detection part, 136…Photo sensor unit, 137…Photo interrupter138…Shielding plate, 139…Rotary encoder, 140…Encoder, 141…Scale, 142…Second motor, 143…Second pump, 144…Atmospheric release part, 145…Atmospheric release base, 146…Atmospheric release valve, 147…Atmospheric release lever, 148…Second transmission part, 149…Drive pinion, 150…Drive belt, 151…Drive gear, 152…Connecting gear, 153…Connecting shaft, 154…Friction clutch, 155…Atmospheric release cam, 161…Supply flow path, 162…Air flow path, 163…First fixed part, 164…First movable part, 165…Second fixed part, 166…Second movable part, 167…Guide member, 168…Relay joint, 169…First flexible member, 170…Second flexible member, 171…First extension part, 172…First bending part, 173…Second extension part, 174…Second bending part, 175…Binding body, 176…Holding part, 177…Support part, 178…Arm, 179…Pulley, 180…Flange, 181…Inclined surface, 186…Switching body, 187…Switching base material, 188…Rotating body, A1…Moving area, C1…Liquid chamber, C2…Air chamber, C3…Choke space, C4…Pressurized space, C5…Choke liquid chamber, C6…Choke air chamber, C7…Pressurized liquid chamber, C8…Pressurized air chamber, C11…Pump space, C12…Pump liquid chamber, C13…Pump air chamber, D1…Scanning direction, H1…Inlet, H2…Outlet, H3…Air port, H4…Choke inlet, H5…Choke outlet, H6…Choke air port, H7…Pressurized inlet, H8…Pressurized outlet, H9…Pressurized air port, H11…Pump inlet, H12…Pump outlet, H13…Pump air port, L1…Center line, M1…Medium, P1…Pump path, P2…Open path, P3…Pressurized path, P4…Choke path, P5…Conduction path.

Claims

1. A pressure variable unit that changes the pressures of a plurality of connection destinations, including a motor, a pump connected to the motor and driven by the power of the motor, a switching unit that switches the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump by the power of the motor, and a transmission unit located between the motor and the switching unit, wherein the transmission unit is configured not to transmit power from the motor to the switching unit when the motor rotates in the forward direction, and to transmit power from the motor to the switching unit when the motor rotates in the reverse direction. The pressure variable unit is characterized by this.

2. The switching unit includes a plurality of valves respectively located between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump, and a plurality of cams that respectively open and close the plurality of valves. The pressure variable unit according to claim 1 is characterized by this.

3. The switching unit is located between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump, and has a switching body that switches the connection between the plurality of connection destinations and the pump by rotating. The pressure variable unit according to claim 1 is characterized by this.

4. The transmission unit has a one-way clutch. The pressure variable unit according to claim 1 is characterized by this.

5. The motor is a first motor, the pump is a first pump, the transmission unit is a first transmission unit, The pressure variable unit includes a second motor, a second pump connected to the second motor and driven by the power of the second motor, an atmosphere release unit connected to the plurality of connection destinations and releasing the plurality of connection destinations to the atmosphere, A second transmission unit that is located between the second motor and the atmosphere release part and transmits the power of the second motor to the atmosphere release part. The second pump is configured to change the pressure of at least one of the plurality of connection destinations. The atmosphere release part is configured to close when the second motor rotates in the forward direction and open when the second motor rotates in the reverse direction. The pressure variable unit according to claim 1.

6. A detection unit that detects the rotation angle of the motor. A control unit that controls the motor. The control unit. When rotating the motor in the forward direction, the motor is open-controlled. When rotating the motor in the reverse direction, the motor is PID-controlled based on the detection result by the detection unit. The pressure variable unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A liquid discharge unit that discharges liquid. A liquid supply unit that supplies liquid to the liquid discharge unit. The liquid supply unit. A supply flow path through which liquid flows toward the liquid discharge unit. The pressure variable unit according to claim 1. At least one of the liquid supply unit and the liquid discharge unit has a storage part that stores liquid. The storage part has a membrane member that divides the inside of the storage part into an air chamber and a liquid chamber. The plurality of connection destinations include the storage part. The pressure variable unit is characterized by changing the pressure of the air chamber. A liquid discharge device.

8. The storage part is one of a plurality of storage parts. The plurality of storage parts each have the air chamber. Each of the plurality of the accommodating portions is provided in the liquid supply unit or the liquid discharge unit. The plurality of connection destinations include the plurality of accommodating portions. The liquid discharge device according to claim 7, wherein the pressure variable unit selectively changes the pressure of a plurality of air chambers.

9. A frame that supports the pressure variable unit; A fixing member that fixes the pressure variable unit to the frame, and The liquid discharge device according to claim 7, wherein the fixing member is detachably attached to the pressure variable unit and the frame from above.

10. The liquid supply unit has an air flow path connected to the accommodating portion and the pump. The liquid discharge unit A discharge portion that discharges the liquid, A moving body that mounts the discharge portion and is movable in a scanning direction, A fluid portion that is mounted on the moving body and is connected to the supply flow path and the discharge portion, and The fluid portion has the accommodating portion, The supply flow path has a first flexible member that deforms as the liquid discharge unit moves in the scanning direction. The air flow path has a second flexible member that deforms as the liquid discharge unit moves in the scanning direction. The liquid discharge device according to claim 9, wherein an upstream end of the first flexible member and an upstream end of the second flexible member are located on one side with respect to the center of the movement region of the liquid discharge unit.

11. A binding body that bundles the first flexible member and the second flexible member is provided. The binding body has a holding portion that holds the first flexible member and a support portion that supports the second flexible member. The liquid discharge device according to claim 10, wherein the support portion has a pulley that contacts the second flexible member.

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