Liquid dispensing device

Abstract

To provide a liquid dispensing device that can improve the convenience of the worker. [Solution] The liquid dispensing device comprises a head having a nozzle surface from which multiple nozzles for dispensing liquid are open, a carriage that moves along a first direction intersecting the vertical while supporting the head, a support part that supports the medium when the head dispensing liquid toward the medium, a maintenance part provided in the first direction from the support part and for maintaining the head, and a housing that houses the maintenance part. The housing has a housing body with an opening formed therein and a cover that can open and close the opening. The maintenance part has a cap that covers the nozzle surface and a wiping part that can move between a wiping position for wiping the nozzle surface and a retracted position further from the head than the wiping position. The support part, the cap, the wiping part located in the wiping position, and the opening are arranged in order in the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid ejection device.

Background Art

[0002] For example, as in Patent Document 1, there is disclosed a liquid ejection device including a liquid ejection unit having a nozzle surface in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting liquid are open, and a carriage that reciprocates the liquid ejection unit along the width direction, and performing printing by ejecting liquid onto a medium.

[0003] In such a liquid ejection device, a maintenance unit for maintaining the liquid ejection unit is provided. The maintenance unit is provided with, for example, a cap that covers the nozzle surface, such as a suction cap and a standby cap, and a liquid collection device that is an example of a wiping unit for wiping the nozzle surface.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in such a liquid ejection device, when an operator manually maintains the nozzle surface, a work space for maintaining the nozzle surface is required. Therefore, it is desired to improve the convenience for the operator.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A liquid dispensing device that solves the above problems comprises a head having a nozzle surface from which a plurality of nozzles for dispensing liquid are open, a carriage that moves along a first direction intersecting the vertical direction while supporting the head, a support part that supports a medium when the head dispensing liquid toward the medium, a maintenance part provided in the first direction from the support part and for maintaining the head, and a housing that houses the maintenance part, wherein the housing has a housing body having an opening and a cover that can open and close the opening, and the maintenance part has a cap that covers the nozzle surface and a wiping part that can move between a wiping position for wiping the nozzle surface and a retracted position further from the head than the wiping position, and the support part, the cap, the wiping part located at the wiping position and the opening are arranged in order in the first direction. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a liquid dispensing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the maintenance unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a top view showing a liquid dispensing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a top view showing a liquid dispensing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view from the left side showing the wiping section and nozzle surface of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the opening of the first embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] [First Embodiment] An embodiment of the liquid dispensing device will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the direction intersecting the vertical direction Z will be called the width direction X, and the direction intersecting the vertical direction Z and the width direction X will be called the front-rear direction Y. One of the width directions X will be called the first width direction X1, and the other of the width directions X will be called the second width direction X2. One of the front-rear directions Y will be called the front Y1, and the other of the front-rear directions Y will be called the rear Y2. The upper part of the vertical direction Z will be called the upper Z1, and the lower part of the vertical direction Z will be called the lower Z2. The first width direction X1 corresponds to an example of the first direction, and the front Y1 corresponds to an example of the second direction.

[0009] <Configuration of liquid dispensing device 11> As shown in Figure 1, the liquid ejection device 11 is configured to print on a medium by ejecting liquid onto the medium. The liquid may include, for example, ink. The liquid may be, for example, multiple colors. The liquid ejection device 11 may be an inkjet printer.

[0010] The liquid dispensing device 11 comprises a housing 12. The liquid dispensing device 11 may also have legs 13. The housing 12 is configured to house various components that make up the liquid dispensing device 11. The housing 12 is configured as the exterior of the liquid dispensing device 11. The housing 12 may be supported by the legs 13.

[0011] The housing 12 has a front surface 12A. The front surface 12A is the surface at the front Y1 of the housing 12. The housing 12 has a top surface 12B. The top surface 12B is the surface at the top Z1 of the housing 12.

[0012] The housing 12 comprises a right side 12C and a left side 12D. The right side 12C is a surface of the housing 12 in the first width direction X1. The left side 12D is a surface of the housing 12 in the second width direction X2. The right side 12C and the left side 12D are surfaces that include the vertical direction Z and the front-to-back direction Y. The liquid dispensing device 11 is a device intended to be accessed from the front side 12A.

[0013] The housing 12 comprises a housing body 14 and a cover 15. The housing body 14 has a front surface 14A. The front surface 14A is the surface of the housing body 14 at the front Y1. The housing body 14 has a top surface 14B. The top surface 14B is the surface of the housing body 14 at the top Z1. The housing body 14 has a first side surface 14C. The first side surface 14C is the surface of the housing body 14 in the first width direction X1.

[0014] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the cover 15 is attached to the housing body 14. The cover 15 may be rotatably attached to the housing body 14. The cover 15 is configured to open and close a first opening 19A, which will be described later. The cover 15 is also configured to open and close a second opening 19B, which will be described later.

[0015] The cover 15 includes a cover front surface 15A. The cover front surface 15A is the surface in front of the cover 15 at Y1 when the cover 15 is closed. The cover 15 includes a cover top surface 15B. The cover top surface 15B is the surface in upper Z1 when the cover 15 is closed. The cover 15 includes a cover side surface 15C. The cover side surface 15C is the surface in the first width direction X1 of the cover 15.

[0016] The front panel 12A includes the main unit front panel 14A and the cover front panel 15A. The top panel 12B includes the main unit top panel 14B and the cover top panel 15B. The right side panel 12C includes the first side panel 14C and the cover side panel 15C.

[0017] The cover 15 includes a rotating shaft 15D and a notch 15E. The rotating shaft 15D is an axis extending in the width direction X at the rear end of the top surface 15B of the cover. Thus, the cover 15 is configured to be rotatable about the rotating shaft 15D.

[0018] The notch 15E is provided on the front surface 15A of the cover. The notch 15E may be provided on the second width direction X2 side of the front surface 15A of the cover. The notch 15E is provided so as to avoid the operation panel 16 described later when the cover 15 is closed. Thereby, even when the cover 15 is closed, the operation panel 16 can be visually recognized.

[0019] The liquid ejection device 11 includes an operation panel 16. The operation panel 16 is provided on the top surface 12B. The operation panel 16 is provided on the front Y1 side of the top surface 12B. The operation panel 16 includes an operation part that can be operated by an operator. The operation panel 16 includes a display part that displays various kinds of information. The operation panel 16 may be a touch panel. The operator may include a user and those other than the user. Those other than the user may include a service person who maintains the liquid ejection device 11.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a discharge port 17 and a discharge support part 18. The discharge port 17 is an opening for discharging the medium after printing. The discharge port 17 is provided on the front surface 12A. The discharge port 17 is provided so as to extend in the width direction X.

[0021] The discharge support part 18 is provided on the front surface 12A. The discharge support part 18 may be configured to extend rearward Y2 from the front surface 12A. The discharge support part 18 may be configured to protrude forward Y1 from the front surface 12A. The discharge support part 18 is provided so as to extend in the width direction X. The discharge support part 18 is configured to support the medium on which liquid has been ejected.

[0022] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a control unit 90. The control unit 90 comprehensively controls the liquid dispensing device 11. The control unit 90 controls various operations performed by the liquid dispensing device 11. The control unit 90 may be configured as a circuit including α: one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program, β: one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute at least some of the various processes, or γ: a combination thereof. The hardware circuit is, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM, and the memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. Memory, or computer-readable media, includes any readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0023] The control unit 90 displays various information on the operation panel 16. The control unit 90 receives instructions from the operator via the operation panel 16. The liquid dispensing device 11 may be able to communicate with a terminal device (not shown). The control unit 90 may also receive instructions from the operator via the terminal device.

[0024] <Configuration of the main enclosure 14> As shown in Figure 2, the housing body 14 includes a first opening 19A and a second opening 19B. The first opening 19A is provided on the first width direction X1 side of the housing body 14. The first opening 19A is provided on the first side surface 14C. In other words, the housing body 14 has a first opening 19A in the first width direction X1.

[0025] The first opening 19A is located in the first width direction X1 beyond the maintenance section 31, which will be described later. When the cover 15 is closed, the first opening 19A is covered by the cover side 15C. When the cover 15 is open, the first opening 19A is positioned so as to expose the maintenance section 31, which will be described later, from the first side 14C side. In this way, the cover 15 can open and close the first opening 19A. The cover 15 covers the first opening 19A from at least the first width direction X1.

[0026] The second opening 19B is provided on the top surface 14B of the main body. The second opening 19B is provided on the first width direction X1 side of the top surface 14B of the main body. The second opening 19B is provided on the front Y1 side of the top surface 14B of the main body. In other words, the second opening 19B is provided on the first width direction X1 side and the front Y1 side of the top surface 14B of the main body.

[0027] The second opening 19B is located Y2 behind the operation panel 16. The second opening 19B is located Z1 above the maintenance section 31, which will be described later. When the cover 15 is closed, the second opening 19B is covered by the top surface 15B of the cover. When the cover 15 is open, the second opening 19B is positioned to expose the maintenance section 31, which will be described later, from above Z1. In this way, the cover 15 can open and close the second opening 19B.

[0028] The first opening 19A and the second opening 19B may be in communication. The first opening 19A and the second opening 19B may be in communication so as to straddle the top surface 14B and the first side surface 14C on the first width direction X1 side of the housing body 14 and on the upper Z1 side of the housing body 14. The first opening 19A is an example of an opening.

[0029] <Area of ​​liquid dispensing device 11> As shown in Figure 3, the liquid dispensing device 11 includes a printing area 20 and a maintenance area 30. The printing area 20 is the area for printing onto the medium. The maintenance area 30 is the area for maintaining the head 23, which will be described later.

[0030] The printing area 20 is located in the center of the liquid dispensing device 11. The maintenance area 30 is located in the first width direction X1 from the center of the liquid dispensing device 11. In other words, the maintenance area 30 is located in the first width direction X1 from the printing area 20.

[0031] <Configuration of the liquid discharge unit 21> The liquid dispensing device 11 comprises a liquid dispensing section 21 and a support section 22. The liquid dispensing device 11 also comprises a transport section (not shown). The transport section is configured to transport a medium. The transport section is configured to transport the medium forward Y1 in the printing area 20.

[0032] The liquid dispensing unit 21 is configured to dispense liquid onto a medium. The liquid dispensing unit 21 is configured to dispense liquid onto a region of the medium supported by the support unit 22 in the printing area 20. The liquid dispensing unit 21 is configured to dispense liquid onto a medium being transported forward Y1 in the printing area 20.

[0033] The liquid dispensing unit 21 comprises a head 23, a carriage 24, and a carriage guide 25. In other words, the liquid dispensing device 11 comprises a head 23, a carriage 24, and a carriage guide 25.

[0034] The head 23 is configured to discharge liquid. In this embodiment, the head 23 discharges liquid downward Z2. The head 23 is configured to be supported by the bottom surface of the carriage 24.

[0035] The head 23 includes a nozzle surface 23A. The nozzle surface 23A is a surface from which multiple nozzles (not shown) for discharging liquid are opened. The nozzle surface 23A is positioned on the bottom surface of the head 23 so as to face downward Z2. The head 23 is configured to discharge liquid from the multiple nozzles.

[0036] The carriage 24 is configured to support the head 23. The carriage 24 is supported by a carriage guide 25. The carriage guide 25 is configured to extend in the width direction X. The carriage guide 25 is configured to extend in the width direction X across the printing area 20 and the maintenance area 30. The carriage 24 is configured to reciprocate along the carriage guide 25 in the width direction X by a driving force from a carriage drive unit (not shown).

[0037] This configures the carriage 24 to move along the width direction X while supporting the head 23. In other words, the carriage 24 is configured to move along the first width direction X1 while supporting the head 23. The carriage 24 is configured to move along the width direction X in the printing area 20 and the maintenance area 30.

[0038] The carriage 24 moves back and forth along the width direction X in the printing area 20, passing a position opposite the medium supported by the support section 22. The head 23 is configured to eject liquid along the width direction X in the printing area 20. The head 23 prints an image onto the medium by ejecting the liquid onto the medium.

[0039] The support section 22 is configured to support the medium. The support section 22 is provided so as to extend in the width direction X within the printing area 20. The support section 22 is configured to support the medium transported by the transport section within the printing area 20. The support section 22 is provided in the printing area 20 at a position opposite to the head 23. The support section 22 is configured to support the medium when the head 23 discharges liquid toward the medium.

[0040] <Configuration of Maintenance Unit 31> The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a maintenance unit 31. The maintenance unit 31 is located in the maintenance area 30. The maintenance unit 31 is located in the maintenance area 30 at a position opposite to the head 23. The maintenance unit 31 is located in the maintenance area 30 at a distance of X1 in the first width direction from the support unit 22. The maintenance unit 31 is configured to perform maintenance on the head 23.

[0041] The maintenance unit 31 includes a moisturizing cap 32, a flushing unit 33, a suction cap 34, a degassing unit 35, and a wiping unit 36. In the printing area 20 and the maintenance area 30, the support unit 22, the moisturizing cap 32, the flushing unit 33, the suction cap 34, the degassing unit 35, and the wiping unit 36 ​​are arranged in order toward the first width direction X1.

[0042] The first opening 19A is provided in the first width direction X1 from the maintenance section 31. More specifically, the first opening 19A is provided in the first width direction X1 from the wiping section 36. Thus, the support section 22, the moisturizing cap 32, the flushing section 33, the suction cap 34, the degassing section 35, the wiping section 36 located at the wiping position P2 (described later), and the first opening 19A are arranged in order in the first width direction X1.

[0043] Each component of the maintenance unit 31 may be arranged so as to fit within the first opening 19A in the front-to-back direction Y when viewed from above. In other words, the moisturizing cap 32, the flushing unit 33, the suction cap 34, the degassing unit 35, and the wiping unit 36 ​​may be arranged so as to fit within the first opening 19A in the front-to-back direction Y when viewed from above.

[0044] With the carriage 24 supporting the head 23, it is positioned opposite each component of the maintenance area 30, allowing each component of the maintenance unit 31 to perform maintenance on the nozzle surface 23A.

[0045] In particular, the carriage 24 is movable to a first position P1. The first position P1 is a position in which the nozzle surface 23A can face the wiping unit 36 ​​which is located at the wiping position P2 described later. The first position P1 is a position in which the nozzle surface 23A can be wiped by the wiping unit 36.

[0046] The moisturizing cap 32 is positioned in the maintenance area 30 opposite the head 23. The moisturizing cap 32 is located inward of the suction cap 34 in the width direction X.

[0047] The moisturizing cap 32 forms a space that communicates with the nozzle by contacting the head 23. The moisturizing cap 32 caps the head 23 by being in close contact with it. The moisturizing cap 32 covers the nozzle surface 23A. The moisturizing cap 32 may be configured to be able to move up and down. The moisturizing cap 32 may be configured to cover the nozzle surface 23A by rising.

[0048] The moisturizing cap 32 moisturizes the nozzle by capping the head 23. In other words, the moisturizing cap 32 is a cap that moisturizes the head 23 by covering the nozzle surface 23A when facing the head 23. The moisturizing cap 32 is an example of a cap.

[0049] The flushing section 33 is located in the maintenance area 30, opposite the head 23. The flushing section 33 is located outside the moisturizing cap 32 in the width direction X. The flushing section 33 is located inside the suction cap 34 in the width direction X. The flushing section 33 is located between the wiping section 36 and the moisturizing cap 32.

[0050] The flushing section 33 is configured to receive the liquid discharged from the head 23. The flushing section 33 may receive the liquid discharged from the head 23 under pressure. In other words, the flushing section 33 may receive the liquid discharged in conjunction with pressurized cleaning.

[0051] Pressurized cleaning involves pressurizing the liquid inside the head 23 to expel it. Pressurized cleaning is a maintenance method that forcibly expels liquid from the nozzle, thereby removing air bubbles, foreign matter, and other contaminants along with the liquid inside the head 23.

[0052] The flushing section 33 may receive the liquid that has been discharged. Drain discharge is the operation of discharging liquid from the nozzle in order to prevent clogging of the nozzle. Drain discharge is also called flushing. Through drain discharge, for example, a viscous liquid is discharged from the nozzle. The flushing section 33 receives the liquid discharged from the head 23 facing it.

[0053] The suction cap 34 is positioned in the maintenance area 30 opposite the head 23. The suction cap 34 is located outside the moisturizing cap 32 in the width direction X. The suction cap 34 is located between the wiping section 36 and the moisturizing cap 32 in the first width direction X1. In Figures 3 and 4, the suction cap 34 is covered by a cap cover, but the cap cover is removed during actual use. This leaves the suction cap 34 open.

[0054] The suction cap 34 forms a space communicating with the nozzle by contacting the head 23. The suction cap 34 caps the head 23 by making tight contact with it. The suction cap 34 covers the nozzle surface 23A. The suction cap 34 may be configured to be vertically movable. The suction cap 34 may be configured to cover the nozzle surface 23A by rising.

[0055] The suction cap 34 caps the nozzle surface 23A and draws liquid from the head 23 by suction from a suction pump (not shown). In other words, the suction cap 34 is a cap that draws liquid from the head 23 while covering the nozzle surface 23A in a position opposite the head 23. The suction cap 34 is an example of a cap.

[0056] In this way, by creating negative pressure inside the suction cap 34 through suction, suction cleaning of the head 23 is performed. By performing suction cleaning on a head 23 that is not filled with liquid, liquid can be filled into the head 23. By performing suction cleaning on a head 23 that is filled with liquid, air bubbles, foreign matter, etc., can be discharged from inside the head 23. Thus, the suction cap 34 is configured to receive the liquid discharged from the head 23 during suction cleaning.

[0057] The degassing unit 35 is located in the maintenance area 30, facing the head 23. The degassing unit 35 is located outside the moisturizing cap 32 and the suction cap 34 in the width direction X. The degassing unit 35 is configured to degas a portion of the path that supplies liquid to the head 23. The degassing unit 35 may remove bubbles and other particles contained in the liquid from a portion of the liquid supply path. The degassing unit 35 may also be configured to degas the head 23. The degassing unit 35 may remove bubbles and other particles contained in the liquid from the head 23.

[0058] The wiping unit 36 ​​is configured to wipe liquid from the head 23. The wiping unit 36 ​​may be a wiper unit. The wiping unit 36 ​​is configured to wipe the nozzle surface 23A at a position facing the head 23. The wiping unit 36 ​​performs wiping to wipe the nozzle surface 23A.

[0059] <Configuration of the wiping unit 36> As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the wiping unit 36 ​​comprises a wiper carriage 36A and a wiper 36B. The wiper carriage 36A is configured to support the wiper 36B. The wiper carriage 36A has one end 36C. The one end 36C is the end of the wiping unit 36 ​​at the front Y1 in a top view.

[0060] The maintenance section 31 includes a wiper rail 37. The wiper carriage 36A is supported by the wiper rail 37. The wiper rail 37 is configured to extend in the front-rear direction Y. The wiper rail 37 is configured to include a pair of rail members aligned in the width direction X. The wiper rail 37 may consist of one rail or three or more rail members.

[0061] The wiper carriage 36A is configured to reciprocate along the wiper rail 37 by a driving force from a wiper carriage drive unit (not shown). This configures the wiper carriage 36A to move along the longitudinal direction Y while supporting the wiper 36B.

[0062] The wiper 36B is supported by the wiper carriage 36A so as to protrude upward Z1 from the wiper carriage 36A. The wiper 36B wipes the nozzle surface 23A. The wiper 36B may also wipe the nozzle surface 23A by rotating in the forward / backward direction Y.

[0063] The wiping unit 36 ​​is configured to be movable along the front-rear direction Y between the wiping position P2 shown in Figure 3 and the retracted position P3 shown in Figure 4. As shown in Figure 3, the wiping position P2 is the position where the wiping unit 36 ​​faces the head 23 when the carriage 24 is positioned at the first position P1. The wiping position P2 is the position for wiping the nozzle surface 23A. In other words, the wiping unit 36 ​​performs maintenance on the head 23 by wiping the waste liquid from the nozzle surface 23A at the wiping position P2. The wiping unit 36 ​​performs wiping to wipe the nozzle surface 23A. The wiping unit 36 ​​performs wiping to wipe the nozzle surface 23A when the wiper carriage 36A is at the wiping position P2 and the head 23 is at the first position P1.

[0064] The wiping unit 36 ​​may be movable in the front-rear direction Y when wiping. The wiping unit 36 ​​may be movable in the front-rear direction Y while being supported, for example, by the wiper rail 37. The wiping unit 36 ​​may wipe the nozzle surface 23A by moving in the front-rear direction Y. In other words, the wiping unit 36 ​​may wipe the head 23 along the front Y1. The wiping unit 36 ​​is located outside the moisturizing cap 32 and the suction cap 34 in the width direction X.

[0065] As shown in Figure 4, the retracted position P3 is located a distance Y2 behind the wiping position P2. The retracted position P3 is the position where the unit has been retracted to the rear Y2 of the maintenance area 30. When the carriage 24 is positioned at the first position P1, the retracted position P3 is further Y2 behind the head 23 than the wiping position P2. The wiping unit 36 ​​is configured not to wipe the nozzle surface 23A at the retracted position P3.

[0066] The movement path of the wiping unit 36 ​​when wiping the nozzle surface 23A may overlap with a part of the movement path of the wiping unit 36 ​​when moving between the wiping position P2 and the retracted position P3. The movement path of the wiping unit 36 ​​is similarly a path along the wiper rail 37, and the drive source of the wiping unit 36 ​​is similarly a wiper carriage drive unit (not shown). In this way, the wiping unit 36 ​​wipes the nozzle surface 23A along the movement path that moves between the wiping position P2 and the retracted position P3.

[0067] As shown in Figure 5, when the carriage 24 is positioned at the first position P1 and the wiping unit 36 ​​is positioned at the retracted position P3, one end 36C does not overlap with the nozzle surface 23A in the vertical direction Z. In other words, when the wiping unit 36 ​​is positioned at the retracted position P3, one end 36C does not overlap with the nozzle surface 23A in a top view.

[0068] As shown in Figure 6, when the carriage 24 is positioned at the first position P1 and the wiping unit 36 ​​is positioned at the retracted position P3, a space is provided below Z2 of the nozzle surface 23A. This space is the space in which the wiping unit 36 ​​was housed when it was positioned at the wiping position P2.

[0069] When the carriage 24 is positioned at the first position P1, the wiping unit 36 ​​is positioned at the retracted position P3, and the cover 15 is open, the first opening 19A is provided so that the nozzle surface 23A can be accessed from the first width direction X1 side. Specifically, the first opening 19A is provided on the first side surface 14C and opens to a point Z2 below the nozzle surface 23A in the vertical direction Z. The first opening 19A is provided so that the nozzle surface 23A fits into it in the front-rear direction Y.

[0070] In this way, the operator can perform manual maintenance on the nozzle surface 23A through the space provided by the position of the wiping unit 36 ​​in the retracted position P3 and the first opening 19A.

[0071] <Control details of the liquid dispensing device 11> When in standby mode, the control unit 90 positions the carriage 24 so that the nozzle surface 23A faces the moisturizing cap 32 in the vertical direction Z. The control unit 90 raises the moisturizing cap 32 so as to cap the nozzle surface 23A.

[0072] When the control unit 90 receives a print command from the user, it lowers the moisturizing cap 32 to release the capping of the nozzle surface 23A. The control unit 90 moves the carriage 24 in the first width direction X1 to a position where the nozzle surface 23A faces the flushing unit 33 in the vertical direction Z. The control unit 90 controls the liquid discharge unit 21 to perform flushing.

[0073] Next, the control unit 90 moves the carriage 24 in the second width direction X2 from the position where the nozzle surface 23A faces the flashing section 33 in the vertical direction Z. In this case, the control unit 90 moves the carriage 24 to the printing area 20, passing through the position where the nozzle surface 23A faces the moisturizing cap 32 in the vertical direction Z.

[0074] In this way, the liquid dispensing device 11 positions the moisturizing cap 32 between the flushing section 33 and the printing area 20 in the width direction X, and secures a distance sufficient for the carriage 24 to accelerate. As a result, the carriage 24 can move in the second width direction X2 at the same speed within the printing area 20.

[0075] The control unit 90 moves the carriage 24 back and forth along the width direction X, and also discharges liquid from the liquid discharge unit 21 onto the medium, thereby transporting the medium. As a result, the control unit 90 prints on the medium in response to the user's print command.

[0076] The control unit 90 controls the liquid ejection unit 21 to move the carriage 24 in the first width direction X1 to a position where the nozzle surface 23A faces the flushing unit 33 in the vertical direction Z, even during printing, and to perform flushing.

[0077] When the conditions for performing suction cleaning are met, the control unit 90 moves the carriage 24 in the first width direction X1 to a position where the nozzle surface 23A faces the suction cap 34 in the vertical direction Z. The conditions for performing suction cleaning may be met during printing, or at the start and end of printing. The control unit 90 raises the suction cap 34 so as to cap the nozzle surface 23A, thereby bringing the suction cap 34 into contact with the head 23. With the suction cap 34 capping the nozzle surface 23A, the control unit 90 performs suction cleaning by suction from a suction pump (not shown).

[0078] When suction cleaning is complete, the control unit 90 lowers the suction cap 34 to release the capping of the nozzle surface 23A. The control unit 90 moves the carriage 24 to the first position P1. At the wiping position P2, the control unit 90 performs wiping by moving the wiping unit 36 ​​in the front-rear direction Y. When wiping is complete, the control unit 90 moves the carriage 24 in the second width direction X2. When wiping is complete, the control unit 90 may resume printing or terminate printing.

[0079] When printing is complete, the control unit 90 moves the carriage 24 out of the printing area 20 to a position where the nozzle surface 23A faces the moisturizing cap 32 in the vertical Z direction. The control unit 90 raises the moisturizing cap 32 so as to cap the nozzle surface 23A, thereby bringing the moisturizing cap 32 into contact with the head 23 and controlling it to standby mode.

[0080] The moisture-retaining cap 32 is positioned in the maintenance area 30, close to the printing area 20. This allows for a reduction in the travel distance of the carriage 24 when printing is completed.

[0081] In this way, when the unit is in standby mode, the maintenance section 31 is exposed through the second opening 19B by opening the cover 15. This allows the operator to perform maintenance on the maintenance section 31 from above Z1.

[0082] When in standby mode, the control unit 90 moves the carriage 24 to the first position P1 and the wiping unit 36 ​​to the retracted position P3 in response to instructions from the operator. In other words, the carriage 24 is configured to move to the first position P1 in response to instructions from the operator. The wiping unit 36 ​​moves to the retracted position P3 in response to instructions from the operator. This allows manual maintenance of the nozzle surface 23A to be performed from the first side surface 14C through the first opening 19A.

[0083] <Operation and Effects of the First Embodiment> The operation and effects of the first embodiment will now be described. (1-1) The support section 22, the moisturizing cap 32, the suction cap 34, the wiping section 36 located at the wiping position P2, and the first opening 19A are arranged in order in the first width direction X1. With this configuration, the wiping section 36 is not positioned at the wiping position P2 when it moves from the wiping position P2 to the retracted position P3. By moving the carriage 24 to the first position P1, a workspace can be provided at a position where the nozzle surface 23A faces each other. The operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface 23A using the workspace through the first opening 19A without interfering with the support section 22 and the moisturizing cap 32. This improves the workability of maintenance by the operator. In addition, the workability of maintenance by the operator can be improved even without providing the first opening 19A for manual maintenance of the nozzle surface 23A near the support section 22.

[0084] (1-2) The wiping unit 36 ​​is movable between a wiping position P2 and a retracted position P3 along a forward Y1 that intersects the vertical direction Z and the first width direction X1, and wipes the head 23 along the forward Y1. With this configuration, the wiping unit 36 ​​can move between the wiping position P2 and the retracted position P3 and wipe the nozzle surface 23A along the same forward Y1. As a result, by moving between the wiping position P2 and the retracted position P3 in the same way as wiping the nozzle surface 23A, a working space can be provided at a position opposite the nozzle surface 23A.

[0085] (1-3) The liquid dispensing device 11 is equipped with a suction cap 34 that sucks liquid from the head 23 while covering the nozzle surface 23A. With this configuration, by sucking liquid from the head 23 which is filled with liquid, air bubbles, foreign matter, etc. inside the head 23 can be discharged. Therefore, not only the nozzle surface 23A but also the inside of multiple nozzles can be cleaned. By wiping the nozzle surface 23A after sucking liquid from the head 23, it is possible to prevent liquid from dripping inside the liquid dispensing device 11. In addition, the operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface 23A using the workspace from the first opening 19A in the first width direction X1 without interfering with the suction cap 34. This improves the workability of maintenance by the operator.

[0086] (1-4) The liquid dispensing device 11 is equipped with a moisturizing cap 32 that moisturizes the head 23 by covering the nozzle surface 23A. With this configuration, the nozzle can be moisturized by the moisturizing cap 32 covering the head 23. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the drying and solidification of the liquid inside the head 23. In addition, the operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface 23A using the workspace from the first opening 19A in the first width direction X1 without interfering with the moisturizing cap 32. This improves the workability of maintenance by the operator.

[0087] (1-5) The liquid dispensing device 11 is equipped with a moisturizing cap 32 and a suction cap 34. With this configuration, it is possible to both discharge air bubbles, foreign matter, etc. from the head 23 and moisturize the nozzle. In addition, the operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface 23A using the workspace from the first opening 19A in the first width direction X1 without interfering with the suction cap 34 and the moisturizing cap 32. This improves the workability of maintenance by the operator.

[0088] (1-6) The suction cap 34 is positioned between the wiping section 36 and the moisturizing cap 32 in the first width direction X1. With this configuration, in the first width direction X1, the wiping section 36 is positioned closer to the suction cap 34 than to the moisturizing cap 32. Therefore, the travel distance of the carriage 24 from the time it sucks liquid from the head 23 until it wipes the nozzle surface 23A can be shortened. This shortens the maintenance time for the head 23.

[0089] (1-7) The liquid ejection device 11 includes a flushing section 33 that receives the liquid discharged from the head 23. The flushing section 33 is located between the wiping section 36 and the moisturizing cap 32. With this configuration, in the first width direction X1, the flushing section 33 is positioned closer to the moisturizing cap 32 and the support section 22 compared to the wiping section 36. Therefore, the time required for the nozzle surface 23A to move from a position facing the moisturizing cap 32 and the support section 22 to a position facing the flushing section 33 can be reduced. This reduces the printing time of the liquid ejection device 11.

[0090] In addition, when the nozzle surface 23A is positioned opposite the flashing section 33, a distance can be secured for the carriage 24 to accelerate before the nozzle surface 23A faces the support section 22. This allows the carriage 24 to move at a constant speed when the nozzle surface 23A faces the support section 22. This suppresses a decrease in print quality and thus improves user convenience.

[0091] (1-8) The wiping unit 36 ​​moves to the retracted position P3 in response to instructions from the operator. The carriage 24 moves to the first position P1 in response to instructions from the operator, so that the nozzle surface 23A can be wiped. With this configuration, the operator can move the carriage 24 to the first position P1 and the wiping unit 36 ​​to the retracted position P3, and at the operator's discretion, a working space can be provided at a position opposite the nozzle surface 23A. This improves the workability of maintenance by the operator.

[0092] (1-9) The first opening 19A extends downward Z2 in the vertical direction Z, below the nozzle surface 23A. This configuration makes it easier to manually maintain the nozzle surface 23A through the first opening 19A. This improves the workability of maintenance by the operator.

[0093] (1-10) When the wiping unit 36 ​​is positioned in the retracted position P3, one end portion 36C in the forward Y1 direction intersecting the first width direction X1 in a top view does not overlap with the nozzle surface 23A. With this configuration, interference by the wiping unit 36 ​​positioned in the retracted position P3 can be suppressed, and the operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface 23A using the workspace from the first opening 19A in the first width direction X1. This improves the workability of maintenance by the operator.

[0094] (1-11) The housing body 14 has a first side surface 14C in the first width direction X1. A first opening 19A is provided on the first side surface 14C. The cover 15 covers at least the first opening 19A from the first side surface 14C. With this configuration, by opening the cover 15, the operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface 23A from the first width direction X1 side through the first opening 19A provided on the first side surface 14C. This improves the workability of maintenance by the operator. In addition, by closing the cover 15, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from entering the inside of the housing 12.

[0095] [Example of changes] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0096] The control unit 90 may move the carriage 24 to the first position P1 and the wiping unit 36 ​​to the retracted position P3 if an error occurs. The control unit 90 may move the carriage 24 to the first position P1 and the wiping unit 36 ​​to the retracted position P3 regardless of instructions from the operator.

[0097] The control unit 90 may, at the operator's instruction, position the carriage 24 so that the nozzle surface 23A faces the moisturizing cap 32 in the vertical direction Z. The control performed by the control unit 90 may also be performed at the operator's instruction.

[0098] The control panel 16 may be located on the front surface 12A. The control panel 16 may be configured to rotate about an axis extending in the width direction X. The control panel 16 may be located away from the closed cover 15.

[0099] The rotation axis 15D may be an axis extending in the width direction X at the front end of the cover top surface 15B. The cover 15 may be rotatable about a rotation axis along the front-rear direction Y. The cover 15 may be rotatable about a rotation axis along the vertical direction Z. The cover 15 may open the first opening 19A by sliding. The cover 15 may be detachable. The cover 15 may be slidably mounted on the housing body 14. The cover 15 may be detachably mounted on the housing body 14.

[0100] The cover 15 may be larger than the first opening 19A, or it may be the same size as the first opening 19A, as long as it can cover at least the first opening 19A.

[0101] The carriage 24 may be configured to move up and down vertically in the Z direction at the first position P1. When the carriage 24 is configured to move up and down vertically in the Z direction at the first position P1, the first opening 19A may open down to a position Z2 below the nozzle surface 23A of the carriage 24 that moves up and down vertically in the Z direction.

[0102] - If the carriage 24 is positioned at the first position P1 and the wiping unit 36 ​​is positioned at the retracted position P3, and a working space is provided below the nozzle surface 23A Z2, then the first opening 19A does not need to open below the nozzle surface 23A Z2.

[0103] If a working space is provided below Z2 of the nozzle surface 23A, when the wiping unit 36 ​​is positioned in the retracted position P3, one end 36C may overlap with the nozzle surface 23A in a top view.

[0104] The opening only needs to consist of at least the first opening 19A. The first opening 19A and the second opening 19B do not need to be in communication with each other. The first opening 19A and the second opening 19B may each be covered by separate covers.

[0105] The liquid discharge device 11 may store the liquid collected by at least one of the flushing section 33, the suction cap 34, and the wiping section 36 as waste liquid in a waste liquid storage section (not shown).

[0106] The maintenance unit 31 may include components other than the moisturizing cap 32, flushing unit 33, suction cap 34, degassing unit 35, and wiping unit 36. The maintenance unit 31 may not include at least one of the components of the moisturizing cap 32, flushing unit 33, suction cap 34, degassing unit 35, and wiping unit 36.

[0107] The moisturizing cap 32, flushing section 33, suction cap 34, and degassing section 35 may be arranged in any order in the first width direction X1. The flushing section 33 and degassing section 35 may be provided further in the second width direction X2 than the support section 22. The maintenance section 31 does not have to include at least one of the flushing section 33 and the degassing section 35. The maintenance section 31 does not have to include either the moisturizing cap 32 or the suction cap 34. The moisturizing cap 32 may be provided further in the second width direction X2 than the support section 22.

[0108] The maintenance section 31 may be provided in the second width direction X2 relative to the support section 22. In this case, the second width direction X2 may be an example of the first direction. The maintenance section 31 may be provided separately in both the first width direction X1 relative to the support section 22 and the second width direction X2 relative to the support section 22.

[0109] The first side surface 14C may be a surface in the second width direction X2 of the housing body 14. The support portion 22, the moisturizing cap 32, the flushing portion 33, the suction cap 34, the degassing portion 35, the wiping portion 36 located at the wiping position P2, and the first opening 19A may be arranged in order in the second width direction X2. In other words, the invention according to this embodiment may have a configuration in which the arrangement of each component is reversed in the first width direction X1 and the second width direction X2. In this case, the second width direction X2 may be an example of the first direction.

[0110] The retracted position P3 may be lower Z2 than the wiping position P2. The wiping unit 36 ​​may wipe the nozzle surface 23A by moving in the width direction X. The wiping unit 36 ​​does not have to wipe the nozzle surface 23A along the front-rear direction Y. In this case, for example, the wiping unit 36 ​​may wipe the nozzle surface 23A by moving the carriage 24 in the width direction X, causing the nozzle surface 23A to come into contact with the stationary wiper 36B.

[0111] The wiping unit 36 ​​may wipe the nozzle surface 23A by moving in a direction other than the front-rear direction Y. Wiping the nozzle surface 23A by the wiper 36B does not necessarily involve movement of the wiping unit 36. For example, only the wiper 36B may rotate, or wiping may be performed by driving a belt instead of the wiper 36B.

[0112] As used herein, the expression "at least one of" means one or more of the desired options. For example, as used herein, if there are two options, the expression "at least one of" means either one option or both of the two options. As another example, as used herein, if there are three or more options, the expression "at least one of" means either one option or any combination of two or more options.

[0113] [Note] The following describes the technical concepts and their effects as understood from the embodiments and modifications described above. These technical concepts and their effects can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other.

[0114] [1] The liquid dispensing device comprises a head having a nozzle surface from which a plurality of nozzles for dispensing liquid are open, a carriage that moves along a first direction intersecting the vertical direction while supporting the head, a support part that supports a medium when the head dispensing liquid toward the medium, a maintenance part provided in the first direction from the support part and for maintaining the head, and a housing that houses the maintenance part, wherein the housing has a housing body having an opening and a cover that can open and close the opening, and the maintenance part has a cap that covers the nozzle surface and a wiping part that can move between a wiping position for wiping the nozzle surface and a retracted position further from the head than the wiping position, and the support part, the cap, the wiping part located in the wiping position and the opening are arranged in order in the first direction.

[0115] In this configuration, the wiping unit is movable between a wiping position and a retracted position. When positioned in the wiping position, the wiping unit is positioned in a first direction relative to the support unit and cap, and opposite to the first direction relative to the opening. As a result, when the wiping unit moves from the wiping position to the retracted position, the wiping unit is not positioned in the wiping position. By moving the carriage so that the nozzle surface faces the wiping position, a workspace can be created at the position where the nozzle surface faces. The operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface using the workspace through the opening in the first direction without interfering with the support unit and cap. This improves the workability of maintenance by the operator. In addition, the workability of maintenance by the operator can be improved even without providing an opening for manual maintenance of the nozzle surface near the support unit. Therefore, the convenience of the operator can be improved.

[0116] [2] In the liquid dispensing device described above, the wiping unit is movable between the wiping position and the retracted position along a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction, and the head may be wiped along the second direction.

[0117] With this configuration, the wiping unit can move between the wiping position and the retracted position, and wipe the nozzle surface, along the same second direction. This allows for the creation of a workspace at a position opposite the nozzle surface by moving between the wiping position and the retracted position, just as with wiping the nozzle surface. Therefore, a simple configuration can be used to suppress the size increase of the device and improve convenience for the operator.

[0118] [3] In the liquid dispensing device described above, the cap may be a suction cap that draws liquid from the head while covering the nozzle surface. This configuration allows for the removal of air bubbles, foreign matter, and other contaminants from the head by suctioning the liquid from the head. Therefore, not only the nozzle surface but also the insides of multiple nozzles can be cleaned. By wiping the nozzle surface after suctioning the liquid from the head, it is possible to prevent liquid from dripping into the inside of the liquid dispensing device.

[0119] In addition, the operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface using the workspace through the opening in the first direction without interfering with the suction cap. This improves the efficiency of maintenance by the operator. Therefore, it improves the convenience of the operator.

[0120] [4] In the liquid dispensing device described above, the cap may be a moisturizing cap that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle surface. With this configuration, the moisturizing cap covers the head, thereby keeping the nozzle moist. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the liquid inside the head from drying out and solidifying.

[0121] In addition, the operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface using the workspace through the opening in the first direction without interfering with the moisture-retaining cap. This improves the efficiency of maintenance by the operator. Therefore, it improves the convenience of the operator.

[0122] [5] The liquid dispensing device is equipped with a suction cap that draws liquid from the head while covering the nozzle surface, and the cap may be a moisturizing cap that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle surface.

[0123] This configuration allows for both the removal of air bubbles and foreign matter from the head and the humidification of the nozzle. In addition, the operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface using the workspace through the opening in the first direction without interference from the suction cap and the humidifying cap. This improves the efficiency of maintenance by the operator. Therefore, it improves the convenience of the operator.

[0124] [6] In the liquid dispensing device described above, the suction cap may be positioned between the wiping section and the moisturizing cap in the first direction. In this configuration, in the first direction, the wiping section is positioned closer to the suction cap than to the moisturizing cap. Therefore, the carriage's travel distance from suctioning liquid from the head to wiping the nozzle surface can be shortened. This reduces head maintenance time, thus improving user convenience.

[0125] In addition, in the first direction, the moisturizing cap is positioned closer to the support section compared to the suction cap and the wiping section. Therefore, the time from when liquid is discharged from multiple nozzles at a position opposite the support section until the nozzle surface is covered by the moisturizing cap can be shortened. Thus, user convenience can be improved.

[0126] [7] The liquid dispensing device includes a flushing section that receives the liquid discharged from the head, and the flushing section may be located between the wiping section and the moisturizing cap. In this configuration, in the first direction, the flushing section is positioned closer to the moisturizing cap and support section compared to the wiping section. Therefore, the time required for the nozzle surface to move from a position facing the moisturizing cap and support section to a position facing the flushing section can be reduced. This shortens the printing time of the liquid dispensing device, thereby improving user convenience.

[0127] In addition, if the nozzle surface is positioned facing the flashing section before it moves to a position facing the support section, sufficient distance can be secured for the carriage to accelerate before the nozzle surface reaches the position facing the support section. This allows the carriage to move at a constant speed when the nozzle surface reaches the position facing the support section. This suppresses a decrease in print quality and thus improves user convenience.

[0128] [8] In the liquid dispensing device described above, the wiping unit may move to the retracted position in response to instructions from the operator, and the carriage may move to a first position in which the nozzle surface can be wiped in response to instructions from the operator.

[0129] With this configuration, the operator can move the carriage to the first position and the wiping unit to the retracted position, while simultaneously creating a workspace opposite the nozzle surface. This improves the efficiency of maintenance by the operator. Therefore, it improves the convenience of the operator.

[0130] [9] The liquid dispensing device described above may have an opening that extends below the nozzle surface in the vertical direction. This configuration makes it easier to manually maintain the nozzle surface through the opening. This improves the efficiency of maintenance by the operator. Therefore, it improves the convenience of the operator.

[0131]

[10] In the liquid dispensing device described above, when the wiping section is positioned in the retracted position, one end of the wiping section in a second direction intersecting the first direction in a top view does not need to overlap with the nozzle surface.

[0132] This configuration suppresses interference caused by the wiping unit positioned in the retracted position, and allows the operator to manually maintain the nozzle surface using the workspace through the opening in the first direction. This improves the efficiency of maintenance by the operator. Therefore, it improves the convenience of the operator.

[0133]

[11] The liquid dispensing device described above may have a housing body having a first side surface in the first direction, the opening provided on the first side surface, and the cover covering at least the opening from the first side surface.

[0134] With this configuration, the operator can manually maintain the nozzle surface from the first direction side through an opening provided on the first side by opening the cover. This improves the efficiency of maintenance by the operator. Therefore, it improves the operator's convenience. In addition, closing the cover prevents foreign matter from entering the inside of the housing. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0135] 11…Liquid dispensing device, 12…Housing, 12A…Front, 12B…Top, 12C…Right side, 12D…Left side, 13…Legs, 14…Main housing body, 14A…Front of main body, 14B…Top of main body, 14C…First side, 15…Cover, 15A…Front of cover, 15B…Top of cover, 15C…Side of cover, 15D…Rotating shaft, 15E…Notch, 16…Operation panel, 17…Discharge port, 18…Discharge tray, 19A…First opening, 19B…Second opening, 20…Printing area, 21…Liquid dispensing section, 22…Support section, 23…Head, 23A…Nozzle surface ,24...carriage,25...carriage guide,30...maintenance area,31...maintenance section,32...moisture cap,33...flushing section,34...suction cap,35...degassing section,36...wiping section,36A...wiper carriage,36B...wiper,36C...one end,37...wiper rail,90...control section,P1...first position,P2...wiping position,P3...retracted position,X...width direction,X1...first width direction,X2...second width direction,Y...front-back direction,Y1...forward,Y2...rear,Z...vertical direction,Z1...upward,Z2...downward.

Claims

1. A head having a nozzle surface from which multiple nozzles for dispensing liquid are open, With the head supported, a carriage moves along a first direction intersecting the vertical direction, The head includes a support section that supports the medium when it dispenses liquid toward the medium, A maintenance section is provided in the first direction from the support section and is used for maintaining the head, A housing for the aforementioned maintenance unit, Equipped with, The housing comprises a housing body having an opening and a cover that can open and close the opening. The maintenance unit includes a cap that covers the nozzle surface, and a wiping unit that is movable between a wiping position for wiping the nozzle surface and a retracted position further from the head than the wiping position. The support portion, the cap, the wiping portion located at the wiping position, and the opening are arranged in order in the first direction. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

2. In the liquid dispensing device according to claim 1, The wiping section is, It is movable between the wiping position and the retracted position along the vertical direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction. The head is wiped along the second direction, A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

3. In the liquid dispensing device according to claim 2, The cap is a suction cap that draws liquid from the head while covering the nozzle surface. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

4. In the liquid dispensing device according to claim 2, The cap is a moisturizing cap that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle surface. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

5. In the liquid dispensing device according to claim 2, The head is equipped with a suction cap that sucks liquid from the head while covering the nozzle surface, The cap is a moisturizing cap that moisturizes the head by covering the nozzle surface. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

6. In the liquid dispensing device according to claim 5, The suction cap is located between the wiping portion and the moisturizing cap in the first direction. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

7. In a liquid dispensing device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, It includes a flushing section that receives the liquid discharged from the head, The flushing section is located between the wiping section and the moisturizing cap. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

8. In a liquid dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The wiping unit moves to the retracted position in response to instructions from the operator. The carriage moves to a first position where the nozzle surface can be wiped, in response to instructions from the operator. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

9. In a liquid dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The opening extends below the nozzle surface in the vertical direction. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

10. In a liquid dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, When the wiping section is positioned in the retracted position, one end of the wiping section in a second direction intersecting the first direction in a top view does not overlap with the nozzle surface. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

11. In a liquid dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The housing body has a first side surface in the first direction, The opening is provided on the first side surface, The cover covers the opening from at least the first side. A liquid dispensing device characterized by the following features.

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