Liquid dispensing device

Abstract

To provide a liquid dispensing device that allows for easy adjustment of the amount of cleaning solution supplied. [Solution] The liquid dispensing device 1 is characterized by comprising: a conveyor belt 33 that conveys a piece of fabric P and has an outer peripheral surface 33a on which the fabric P can be placed; a dispensing unit 61 that dispenses liquid onto the fabric P that is placed on the outer peripheral surface 33a and conveyed; a cleaning unit 101 that cleans the outer peripheral surface 33a; a cleaning liquid tank 103 that stores cleaning liquid into which a part of the cleaning unit 101 is immersed; a supply unit 105 that supplies cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank 103 and has an opening / closing unit 105b that switches between an open state in which cleaning liquid is supplied to the cleaning liquid tank 103 and a closed state in which cleaning liquid is not supplied to the cleaning liquid tank 103; and a control unit 5 that controls the opening / closing unit 105b to adjust the amount of cleaning liquid supplied from the supply unit 105 to the cleaning liquid tank 103.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a liquid ejection device that ejects a liquid onto a medium such as paper or fabric for printing has been known. Some such liquid ejection devices convey the medium using a conveyance belt. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a recording device including an endless belt that conveys a recording medium as the medium, and a belt cleaning device that cleans the endless belt.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the device described in Patent Document 1 has a problem that it is difficult to adjust the supply amount of the cleaning liquid supplied to the cleaning liquid storage unit. Specifically, the cleaning liquid is supplied from the cleaning liquid supply unit to the cleaning liquid storage unit. In this device, the adjustment of the supply amount of the cleaning liquid is not specified. When the user opens and closes a manual valve or the like to adjust the supply amount, an excess or deficiency is likely to occur in the supply amount. Also, it has been difficult to set and reproduce a suitable supply amount according to the operating conditions of the device and the like. That is, there has been a demand for a liquid ejection device in which the adjustment of the supply amount of the cleaning liquid is easy.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The liquid dispensing device is characterized by comprising: a conveyor belt that conveys media and has an outer surface on which the media can be placed; a dispensing unit that dispenses liquid onto the media that is placed on the outer surface and conveyed; a cleaning unit that cleans the outer surface; a cleaning liquid tank that stores cleaning liquid into which a part of the cleaning unit is immersed; a supply unit that supplies the cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank and has an opening / closing unit that switches between an open state in which the cleaning liquid is supplied to the cleaning liquid tank and a closed state in which the cleaning liquid is not supplied; and a control unit that controls the opening / closing unit to adjust the amount of cleaning liquid supplied from the supply unit to the cleaning liquid tank. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram showing the configuration of a liquid dispensing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram showing the configuration of the belt cleaning mechanism. [Figure 3] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control panel display. [Figure 4] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control panel display. [Figure 5] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control panel display. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control panel display. [Figure 7] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control panel display. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control panel display. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control panel display. [Figure 10] A graph showing the relationship between the average hourly water supply and time. [Figure 11] A schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the operation panel according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control panel display. [Figure 13] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control panel display. [Figure 14] A graph showing the relationship between the average hourly water supply and time in a reference example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The embodiments described below illustrate a liquid dispensing device used for digital printing of woven fabrics, and will be explained with reference to the drawings. Note that the applications of the liquid dispensing device of the present invention are not limited to digital printing.

[0008] In the following diagrams, mutually orthogonal coordinate axes, the XYZ axes, are added as needed. The direction indicated by each arrow is considered the + direction, and the direction opposite to the + direction is considered the - direction. When the liquid dispensing device is installed on a horizontal surface such as the floor, the -Z direction is the vertical direction. The +Z direction may also be referred to as upward, and the -Z direction as downward. For illustrative purposes, the sizes of each component are different from those in reality.

[0009] In the transport route of fabric media, where the fabric is unrolled from the original roll, printed, and then wound into a roll, the side where the original roll is unrolled is sometimes called the upstream, and the side where the fabric is wound up is sometimes called the downstream. Furthermore, the direction in which the fabric is transported from upstream to downstream is called the transport direction.

[0010] 1. First Embodiment As shown in Figure 1, the liquid dispensing device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a control unit 5, a media transport unit 20, a recording mechanism 60, a drying unit 70, a winding unit 40, an operation panel 80, and a belt cleaning mechanism 100. The liquid dispensing device 1 also includes a housing (not shown). Each component of the liquid dispensing device 1 is supported by a frame F.

[0011] The liquid dispensing device 1 applies a liquid such as ink to a fabric P, which serves as a media, to form images such as pictures, photographs, text, and patterns on the fabric P and manufacture printed materials. In the explanation of Figure 1, unless otherwise specified, the view from the -X direction will be described.

[0012] The control unit 5 is electrically connected to each component of the liquid dispensing device 1 and comprehensively controls the operation of each component. As will be described in detail later, the control unit 5 is particularly responsible for controlling the supply of cleaning fluid in the belt cleaning mechanism 100.

[0013] The control unit 5 includes hardware such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The control unit 5 executes a predetermined control program by the CPU. The ROM is a non-volatile storage device that stores the control program executed by the CPU and the data processed by the control program. The RAM constitutes the work area of the CPU. The CPU expands the control program read from the ROM or the like into the RAM and executes the expanded control program.

[0014] The operation panel 80 is also electrically connected to the control unit 5. The operation panel 80 displays various information to the user of the liquid ejection device 1 and accepts various operations and inputs of various settings by the user. The control unit 5 controls the liquid ejection device 1 based on the information input to the operation panel 80. In the following description, the user of the liquid ejection device 1 is simply referred to as the user.

[0015] The operation panel 80 is supported by the frame F via a member not shown and is disposed above the liquid ejection device 1 and at the +Y direction end. The user stands in the +Y direction of the liquid ejection device 1 and performs various inputs while visually observing the operation panel 80. The operation panel 80 is, for example, a touch panel type liquid crystal display. The operation panel 80 may have physical buttons in addition to the liquid crystal display.

[0016] The medium transport unit 2 includes a medium supply unit 10, transport rollers 21, 22, 23, 24, a transport mechanism 30, and a take-up unit 40. The medium transport unit 20 transports the fabric P along a transport path from upstream to downstream.

[0017] The medium supply unit 10 has a supply shaft portion 11, a bearing portion 12, and a rotation drive unit not shown. The supply shaft portion 11 is substantially cylindrical and holds the core of the fabric P roll. The bearing portion 12 supports both ends of the supply shaft portion 11 in the direction along the X axis in a detachable and rotatable manner.

[0018] The rotational drive unit is, for example, an electric motor that rotates the supply shaft 11. The rotation of the supply shaft 11 and the belt rotating roller 32 of the conveying mechanism 30, which will be described later, causes the fabric P to be separated from the raw material and sent downstream.

[0019] The fabric P is transported from the media supply unit 10, passes through the transport roller 21, and then its transport direction is changed to approximately the +Y direction by the transport roller 22. The fabric P is then transferred to the transport mechanism 30 from approximately the -Y direction.

[0020] Examples of fibers used as the material for fabric P include natural fibers such as cotton, silk, linen, mohair, wool, and cashmere, regenerated fibers such as rayon and cupro, and synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, and polyurethane, which can be used as single yarns, double yarns, or blends. Fabric P is made by processing the above fibers into a woven or nonwoven fabric. Fabric P may be pre-processed to improve the properties of products manufactured from printed fabric P.

[0021] The conveying mechanism 30 includes belt rotating rollers 31 and 32, a conveying belt 33, and a crimping section 50.

[0022] The conveyor belt 33 is located between the transport rollers 22 and 23 and conveys the fabric P. The conveyor belt 33 is an endless belt and is stretched by the belt rotating rollers 31 and 32 in a region that includes a position facing the recording mechanism 60 in the vertical direction. The conveyor belt 33 has an outer circumferential surface 33a and an inner circumferential surface 33b. The outer circumferential surface 33a and the inner circumferential surface 33b are in a front-back relationship. The fabric P can be placed on the outer circumferential surface 33a. An adhesive layer (not shown) is provided on the outer circumferential surface 33a.

[0023] The conveyor belt 33 adheres the fabric P to the adhesive layer on its outer surface 33a and conveys it in the conveying direction. The conveyor belt 33 is driven to rotate counterclockwise by belt rotating rollers 31 and 32. The conveying direction of the fabric P on the conveyor belt 33 is the +Y direction.

[0024] In the direction along the X-axis, the width of the conveyor belt 33 is wider than the width of the fabric P. The direction intersecting the conveying direction is defined as the conveyor belt width direction. In this embodiment, the width direction of the conveyor belt 33 is along the X-axis.

[0025] The belt rotating rollers 31 and 32 are substantially cylindrical rotating members and form a pair. Each of the belt rotating rollers 31 and 32 is rotatable on an axis of rotation along the X-axis. The belt rotating rollers 31 and 32 are arranged opposite each other in the direction along the Y-axis. The belt rotating roller 31 is located upstream of the conveying mechanism 30 and is positioned near the transport roller 22 in the +Y direction. The belt rotating roller 32 is located downstream of the conveying mechanism 30 and is positioned near the transport roller 23 in the -Y direction. A support member for supporting the conveying belt 33 may be positioned between the belt rotating rollers 31 and 32.

[0026] The belt rotating roller 31 is a driven roller that rotates counterclockwise when the rotation of the belt rotating roller 32 is transmitted to it via the conveyor belt 33. The belt rotating roller 31 is rotatably supported by a roller support (not shown).

[0027] The belt rotating roller 32 is driven to rotate counterclockwise by a transport drive motor (not shown). The transport drive motor is controlled by a control unit 5. The belt rotating roller 32 is rotatably supported by a roller support unit 39.

[0028] The fabric P is transferred from the transport roller 22 to the conveying mechanism 30 and placed on the outer surface 33a of the conveying belt 33 above the belt rotating roller 31. At this time, the fabric P does not need to be in close contact with the outer surface 33a.

[0029] The outer circumferential surface 33a supports the fabric P from below. The inner circumferential surface 33b is in contact with the belt rotating roller 31 and the belt rotating roller 32. The frictional force between the inner circumferential surface 33b and the belt rotating roller 32 drives the conveyor belt 33 to rotate. The frictional force between the inner circumferential surface 33b and the belt rotating roller 31 causes the belt rotating roller 31 to move.

[0030] In the direction along the X-axis, which is the width direction of the conveyor belt 33, the width of the adhesive layer on the outer surface 33a is approximately equal to the width of the conveyor belt 33. The path of the conveyor belt 33 from the belt rotating roller 31 to the belt rotating roller 32 is the conveying path of the fabric P. The path of the conveyor belt 33 that returns to the belt rotating roller 31 after being folded back at the belt rotating roller 32 is the non-conveying path. The outer surface 33a faces upward in the conveying path and downward in the non-conveying path.

[0031] The adhesive layer on the outer surface 33a adheres to the fabric P by adhesive force. The adhesive layer includes an adhesive material such as silicone resin, acrylic resin, or urethane resin. In the conveying path, the fabric P adheres to the outer surface 33a of the conveying belt 33 and is conveyed in the +Y direction along with the rotation of the conveying belt 33.

[0032] The crimping section 50 is positioned near the belt rotating roller 31 in the +Y direction. The crimping section 50 comprises a pressing roller 51, a pair of support sections 53, a heating section 54, and a pair of drive sections (not shown). The crimping section 50 brings the fabric P and the adhesive layer of the conveyor belt 33 into close contact.

[0033] The press roller 51 is a roughly cylindrical rotating member. The press roller 51 has its axis of rotation along the X-axis and is positioned above the conveyor belt 33. The support parts 53 are positioned at both ends of the press roller 51 in the direction along the X-axis. The press roller 51 is rotatably supported by the pair of support parts 53. Each of the pair of support parts 53 is supported by the drive unit. In the direction along the X-axis, the length of the press roller 51 is approximately equal to the width of the conveyor belt 33.

[0034] One of the drive units is positioned further in the -X direction relative to the support unit 53 that supports the -X end of the press roller 51. The other of the drive unit is positioned further in the +X direction relative to the support unit 53 that supports the +X end of the press roller 51.

[0035] The pair of drive units move vertically while supporting the pair of support units 53 by a lifting drive motor (not shown). As a result, the pressing roller 51 can be displaced vertically while being supported by the support units 53. This allows for adjustment of the strength of the pressing force applied by the pressing roller 51 when it presses the fabric P against the adhesive layer on the outer surface 33a.

[0036] Although not shown in the diagram, the pair of drive units, driven by the guide member and motor, reciprocate along the Y-axis while supporting the pair of support units 53. Therefore, the pressing roller 51 is supported by the support units 53 and can reciprocate along the Y-axis.

[0037] The heating unit 54 heats the conveyor belt 33. The heating unit 54 is positioned below the press roller 51 via the conveyor belt 33. The upper surface of the heating unit 54 is formed to be substantially flat and contacts the lower inner circumferential surface 33b of the conveyor belt 33 in the conveying path. The distance of the heating unit 54 along the Y-axis is approximately equal to the distance the press roller 51 reciprocates in the conveying direction and the reverse conveying direction. The distance of the heating unit 54 along the X-axis is approximately equal to the width of the conveyor belt 33 along the X-axis.

[0038] The heating unit 54 is, for example, an electric heater. Heating by the heating unit 54 heats the adhesive layer on the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33. The adhesive layer becomes more flexible when heated, and its adhesive force to the fabric P increases. The heating temperature by the heating unit 54 is, for example, 35°C to 60°C on the upper surface of the heating unit 54.

[0039] In the crimping section 50, the fabric P is placed on the upper surface of the heating section 54 via the conveyor belt 33. The heating section 54 heats the conveyor belt 33, and the pressing roller 51 presses the fabric P against the adhesive layer from above. In parallel with this, the pressing roller 51 rotates and reciprocates in the +Y direction and the -Y direction. The fabric P and the conveyor belt 33 are sandwiched and pressed between the upper surface of the heating section 54 and the pressing roller 51, causing the fabric P and its outer surface 33a to adhere closely together. The fabric P is conveyed in the +Y direction through the crimping section 50 while adhering closely to the conveyor belt 33. Alternatively, the pressing roller 51 may be equipped with a function to heat the conveyor belt 33 instead of the heating section 54. The heating section 54 may also be omitted.

[0040] The recording mechanism 60 faces the outer surface 33a and the fabric P in the vertical direction at the middle of the Y-axis direction of the conveyor belt 33. The recording mechanism 60 prints on the fabric P supported by the conveyor belt 33. The recording mechanism 60 includes an inkjet head ejection unit 61, a carriage 62, and a guide rail 63.

[0041] The guide rail 63 is a structural member that extends along the X-axis and is positioned above the conveying mechanism 30. The guide rail 63 supports the carriage 62 so that it can move in the direction along the X-axis. Supported by the guide rail 63, the carriage 62 reciprocates in the direction along the X-axis by the drive of a carriage drive motor (not shown). The discharge unit 61 is mounted below the carriage 62 and reciprocates together with the carriage 62 in the direction along the X-axis relative to the conveying belt 33.

[0042] The discharge unit 61 discharges and adheres liquids such as ink and functional liquids to the fabric P that is placed on the outer peripheral surface 33a and transported. The discharge unit 61 has a nozzle surface (not shown) facing downwards. The nozzle surface faces the transport belt 33 and the fabric P in the vertical direction. Multiple nozzle rows are arranged on the nozzle surface. Each of the multiple nozzle rows consists of multiple nozzles. Each of the multiple nozzle rows individually discharges multiple types of inks exhibiting colors such as cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, and functional liquids to the fabric P. Examples of inks include water-based inks and non-water-based inks. In this embodiment, water-based ink is used.

[0043] In the discharge section 61, a piezoelectric element is used as the actuator, which is the driving means. The driving means is not limited to this. For example, an electromechanical conversion element that displaces a diaphragm acting as an actuator by electrostatic attraction, or an electrothermal conversion element that discharges ink as droplets by generating bubbles through heating may be used as the driving means.

[0044] Although not shown in the diagram, the ink and functional liquid are supplied from the ink tank to the dispensing unit 61 via piping. The ink and functional liquid dispensed from the dispensing unit 61 adhere to the upward-facing surface of the fabric P.

[0045] The discharge unit 61 is moved back and forth along the X-axis while the fabric P is conveyed in the +Y direction by the conveyor belt 33. At this time, liquid such as ink is applied to the fabric P from the discharge unit 61 at a predetermined timing. This forms a desired image on the fabric P.

[0046] The functional liquid is specifically a softener or pretreatment liquid. The functional liquid is dispensed onto the fabric P at a timing that is simultaneous with or preceding / contemporaneous with the ink dispensing.

[0047] A softener has the function of improving the texture of fabric products such as clothing when a printed fabric P is processed into a fabric product. The softener is not particularly limited, and known fabric softeners can be used. If the softener contains cationic components, it may react with the ink components to form aggregates. Therefore, it is preferable to avoid contact or mixing of the softener and the ink.

[0048] The pretreatment solution has the function of coagulating colorants such as pigments in the ink on the surface of the fabric P, thereby improving the color development of the printed material. Such a pretreatment solution is not particularly limited, and known treatment agents can be applied. Since the pretreatment solution coagulates the colorants, it is preferable to avoid contact or mixing of the pretreatment solution with the ink for purposes other than its intended use.

[0049] Other functional liquids besides softeners and pretreatment solutions may be used as functional liquids. Examples of other functional liquids include coating solutions that improve the abrasion resistance and wash fastness of printed fabric P, and penetrating solutions that assist in the penetration of ink into fabric P.

[0050] In the dispensing unit 61, pre-dispensing is performed before dispensing ink and functional liquid onto the fabric P, and in between dispensing operations. Pre-dispensing is performed to suppress drying and solidification of ink and functional liquid at the gas-liquid interface within each nozzle of the dispensing unit 61, and to prevent color mixing after cleaning each nozzle. The execution of pre-dispensing is controlled by the control unit 5. The timing of pre-dispensing, the time interval, and the amount of ink and functional liquid to be pre-dispensed are set appropriately according to the type and characteristics of the ink and functional liquid.

[0051] The printed fabric P is then transported further in the +Y direction from a position opposite the recording mechanism 60. The fabric P is then detached from the transport belt 33 approximately above the belt rotating roller 32 and transferred to the transport roller 23 downstream of the belt rotating roller 32.

[0052] The conveyor belt 33 is folded back from the conveying path to the non-conveying path by the belt rotating roller 32, and moves in the -Y direction with its outer surface 33a facing downwards.

[0053] The belt cleaning mechanism 100 cleans the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33. The belt cleaning mechanism 100 is positioned below the conveyor belt 33 corresponding to the non-conveyor path and faces the outer surface 33a in the vertical direction.

[0054] Due to the presence of an adhesive layer, the close contact with the fabric P during transport, and the pre-discharge process, the outer surface 33a is prone to the accumulation of liquids such as ink, as well as lint and other foreign matter from the fabric P. If the outer surface 33a is significantly soiled, the transport belt 33 may contaminate the fabric P again when it makes contact with it before printing. Furthermore, the soiling of the outer surface 33a could reduce the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer. To address this, the liquid discharge device 1 cleans the outer surface 33a of the transport belt 33 using a belt cleaning mechanism 100. Details of the belt cleaning mechanism 100 will be described later.

[0055] The transport roller 23 separates the printed fabric P from the conveyor belt 33. The fabric P separated from the conveyor belt 33 is transported in approximately the +Y direction, and the transport roller 23 changes the transport direction to approximately downward. The transport rollers 23 and 24 relay the fabric P to the winding section 40.

[0056] A drying section 70 is positioned between the transport rollers 23 and 24. The drying section 70 dries the ink and functional liquid adhering to the fabric P. The drying section 70 includes, for example, an infrared heater. The infrared rays emitted by the infrared heater cause volatile components contained in the ink and functional liquid adhering to the fabric P to evaporate. As a result, the droplets of ink and functional liquid dry, making it possible to wind the fabric P onto the winding section 40. The fabric P proceeds to the winding section 40 via the transport rollers 24.

[0057] The winding unit 40 is positioned downstream and below the transport roller 24. The winding unit 40 collects the printed material, which is the printed fabric P. The winding unit 40 has a winding shaft 41, a bearing 42, and a rotary drive unit (not shown). The winding shaft 41 is substantially cylindrical and winds the printed material into a roll. The bearing 42 rotatably supports both ends of the winding shaft 41 in the direction along the X axis. The winding shaft 41 is also detachable from the bearing 42. The rotary drive unit rotates the winding shaft 41 counterclockwise. The winding shaft 41 rotates due to the rotary drive unit, and the printed material is wound up. As a result, the printed material is produced in the liquid dispensing device 1.

[0058] As shown in Figure 2, the belt cleaning mechanism 100 includes a cleaning unit 101, a cleaning liquid tank 103, a supply unit 105, a regulating unit 107, a discharge unit 109, a wiping unit 111, and a wiping unit 113. As described above, the belt cleaning mechanism 100 cleans and washes the dirt adhering to the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33. In Figure 2, the conveyor belt 33 in the non-conveyor path is shown by a dashed line. In the non-conveyor path, the conveyor belt 33 moves in the -Y direction.

[0059] The cleaning unit 101, the wiping unit 111, and the wiping unit 113 are positioned to contact the outer circumferential surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33, and are arranged in the above order toward the -Y direction. Therefore, the outer circumferential surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 slides against these components in the order of cleaning unit 101, wiping unit 111, and wiping unit 113.

[0060] The cleaning fluid tank 103 is bathtub-shaped with an open top and stores cleaning fluid for cleaning the outer surface 33a. The cleaning fluid tank 103 is located below the cleaning unit 101. The cleaning fluid is stored at the bottom of the cleaning fluid tank 103. A portion of the cleaning unit 101 is immersed in the cleaning fluid stored in the cleaning fluid tank 103. In the direction along the X-axis, the width of the cleaning fluid tank 103 is greater than the width of the cleaning unit 101.

[0061] The cleaning solution is selected according to the type of ink or functional liquid applied to the liquid dispensing device 1. For example, a water-soluble solvent such as water or alcohol is used as the cleaning solution. The cleaning solution may also contain additives such as surfactants or defoamers. The cleaning solution is supplied to the liquid dispensing device 1 from a supply source (not shown), such as a tap or a cleaning solution tank. In this embodiment, tap water is used as the cleaning solution.

[0062] The supply unit 105 supplies cleaning fluid to the cleaning fluid tank 103. The supply unit 105 has a pipe 105a, an opening / closing unit 105b, and a supply pipe 105c, and is attached to the cleaning fluid tank 103 in the +Y direction. The cleaning fluid is introduced into the supply unit 105 from the pipe 105a and supplied to the cleaning fluid tank 103 from the supply pipe 105c via the opening / closing unit 105b.

[0063] Pipe 105a connects the cleaning fluid supply source to the on / off section 105b. Pipe 105a is connected to a water tap, for example, via a flexible hose. The inside of pipe 105a and the inside of the on / off section 105b are in communication. The cleaning fluid is introduced from pipe 105a to the on / off section 105b.

[0064] The opening / closing unit 105b changes the amount of cleaning fluid supplied to the cleaning fluid tank 103. The opening / closing unit 105b switches between an open state, which supplies cleaning fluid to the cleaning fluid tank 103, and a closed state, which does not supply cleaning fluid. The control unit 5 controls the opening / closing unit 105b to adjust the amount of cleaning fluid supplied from the supply unit 105 to the cleaning fluid tank 103.

[0065] The flow path of the opening / closing section 105b (not shown) is fully open in the open state and fully closed in the closed state. The degree to which the flow path of the opening / closing section 105b is opened is defined as the opening degree. The opening degree in the closed state is 100%, and the opening degree in the closed state is 0%. In addition to 0% and 100%, the opening degree may be arbitrarily adjusted within the range of greater than 0% and less than 100%. A known valve mechanism, such as an electromagnetic valve, is applied to the opening / closing section 105b.

[0066] The supply pipe 105c connects the opening / closing section 105b to the cleaning fluid tank 103. The supply pipe 105c is connected to the side wall of the cleaning fluid tank 103 in the +Y direction and communicates the flow path of the opening / closing section 105b with the inside of the cleaning fluid tank 103. The cleaning fluid supplied from the supply pipe 105c flows along the side wall of the cleaning fluid tank 103 and accumulates at the bottom of the cleaning fluid tank 103. Note that the arrangement of the supply section 105 is not limited to the above.

[0067] The regulating section 107 defines the liquid level Lv of the cleaning fluid stored in the cleaning fluid tank 103. The regulating section 107 is positioned in the -Y direction at the bottom of the cleaning fluid tank 103. The regulating section 107 is a plate-shaped partition member. The regulating section 107 is aligned with the XZ plane and protrudes upward from the bottom of the cleaning fluid tank 103. The cleaning fluid is stored in the area partitioned by the side walls and bottom of the cleaning fluid tank 103 and the regulating section 107. In Figure 2, this area is shown as hatched with diagonal lines. If more cleaning fluid is supplied from the state shown in Figure 2, the cleaning fluid will overflow the regulating section 107 and spill out in the -Y direction. The spilled cleaning fluid is discharged out of the cleaning fluid tank 103 from the discharge section 109.

[0068] The regulating section 107 defines the liquid level Lv, or upper limit, of the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning solution tank 103, thereby preventing the storage of more cleaning solution than necessary in the cleaning solution tank 103. Furthermore, by supplying cleaning solution to the cleaning solution tank 103, the cleaning solution can be allowed to overflow, thereby maintaining the cleanliness of the stored cleaning solution.

[0069] The cleaning unit 101 cleans the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33. The cleaning unit 101 is a substantially cylindrical brush with its central axis aligned with the X-axis. Although not shown in the illustration, the cleaning unit 101 is supported by a support member and rotates counterclockwise around the central axis by a drive motor.

[0070] The cleaning unit 101 rotates and contacts the outer surface 33a to clean away dirt such as ink. Any dried ink residue that cannot be removed by the cleaning unit 101 comes into contact with the cleaning solution transferred from the cleaning unit 101, and is easily scraped off by the cleaning solution. This dried residue is then scraped off by the wiping unit 111 located downstream of the cleaning unit 101. After sliding against the outer surface 33a, the cleaning unit 101 rotates and immerses itself in the cleaning solution, transferring the dirt scraped off the outer surface 33a into the cleaning solution and becoming clean.

[0071] If the amount of cleaning solution supplied to the cleaning solution tank 103 is insufficient, the concentration of ink and the amount of foreign matter in the stored cleaning solution will increase. This can lead to a decrease in the cleanliness of the cleaning section 101, making it impossible to ensure the cleaning capacity to remove dirt from the outer surface 33a. Conversely, if the amount of cleaning solution supplied is excessive, the amount of cleaning solution discharged from the discharge section 109 will increase, resulting in waste of cleaning solution. In response to this, the liquid dispensing device 1 adjusts the supply amount to prevent deficiencies or excesses in the cleaning solution.

[0072] The wiping section 111 scrapes off any adhering cleaning liquid or dried material from the outer peripheral surface 33a that is in contact with the cleaning section 101. The wiping section 111 is a roughly plate-shaped rubber member. The cleaning liquid and dried material scraped off from the outer peripheral surface 33a fall downward and are discharged from the discharge section 109.

[0073] The wiping section 113 absorbs and removes any remaining cleaning solution from the outer surface 33a. The wiping section 113 is a substantially cylindrical sponge member with its central axis aligned with the X-axis. In the direction along the X-axis, the width of the wiping section 113 is shorter than the width of the outer surface 33a. When viewed from above, the wiping sections 113 are arranged alternately. The wiping sections 113 rotate counterclockwise by an electric motor (not shown). When the outer surface 33a passes over a wiping section 113, the entire area of ​​the outer surface 33a in the direction along the X-axis slides against one of the wiping sections 113.

[0074] As a result, the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 is cleaned. The cleaning of the conveyor belt 33 by the belt cleaning mechanism 100 is performed at least during the period in which the printed material is being manufactured by the liquid dispensing device 1. In addition to the period described above, the cleaning may also be performed before and after the manufacturing of the printed material.

[0075] Next, we will describe how the control unit 5 adjusts the supply amount of cleaning solution. Refer to Figures 1 and 2 in the following explanation.

[0076] The control unit 5 adjusts the amount of cleaning fluid supplied from the supply unit 105 to the cleaning fluid tank 103 by controlling the time ratio between the open state and the closed state of the opening / closing unit 105b. Specifically, the time ratio is the ratio of the time when the opening degree is 0% to the time when the opening degree is 100% within a certain period. When the opening / closing unit 105b is controlled using only the open and closed states, changing the time ratio makes it possible to make adjustments similar to arbitrarily changing the opening degree within a certain period, from 0% to 100%.

[0077] Specifically, for example, if the opening degree is set to 100% for half of a certain period and to 0% for the other half, the total supply amount for that period will be equal to that when the opening degree is set to 50%. This makes it possible to arbitrarily adjust the supply amount using only the open and closed states of the opening / closing unit 105b. This makes adjusting the supply amount relatively easier compared to arbitrarily changing the opening degree of the opening / closing unit 105b within a range of 0% to 100%.

[0078] The control unit 5 controls the time ratio based on the information input to the operation panel 80. Specifically, this information includes the amount of supply, the time ratio, and the average amount of cleaning solution supplied per hour. When the user inputs this information to the operation panel 80, the control unit 5 changes the time ratio according to the information. This allows the user to arbitrarily determine the amount of supply. In the following explanation, the average amount of cleaning solution supplied per hour is also referred to as the average water supply per hour.

[0079] The control panel 80 displays one or more setting values ​​indicating the amount of cleaning solution supplied. Here, the setting value may not only represent the numerical amount of supply but also express the amount of supply. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, for example, the supply amount may be expressed as a rough quantity such as high, medium, or low. Although not particularly limited, for a certain period, the open state is maintained for the entire period when the supply amount is high. When the supply amount is medium, the open state is maintained for 2 / 3 of the period and the closed state is maintained for the remaining 1 / 3 of the period. When the supply amount is low, the open state is maintained for 1 / 2 of the period and the closed state is maintained for the remaining 1 / 2 of the period.

[0080] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the supply quantity may be displayed as four or more indicator values ​​depending on the degree.

[0081] The control unit 5 controls and changes the time ratio based on a setting value selected by the user from a set of multiple settings. This improves user convenience because the user only needs to select the setting value.

[0082] The control unit 5 calculates the optimal amount of cleaning solution to be supplied based on one or more of the following: the type of fabric P which is the media, the type of liquid such as ink discharged by the discharge unit 61, and the image data formed on the fabric P. The image data referred to here is, for example, the amount of liquid discharged from the discharge unit 61, such as the printing duty cycle and printing density.

[0083] The control unit 5 displays one or more setting values ​​on the operation panel 80 based on the calculated optimal value. Specifically, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the recommended setting value among multiple setting values ​​may be marked. The setting value may also be displayed without marking. The type of liquid and image data affect how easily the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 gets dirty. Therefore, a suitable setting value corresponding to the degree of dirt is displayed, improving the cleanability of the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 and the convenience of the user.

[0084] The control panel 80 may allow direct input of one or more values ​​from the time ratio and the average supply amount of cleaning solution per hour. The control unit 5 controls the time ratio based on the values ​​input to the control panel 80. This improves user convenience as the user can input any value.

[0085] Specifically, as shown in Figure 7, for example, the user inputs the ratio of the open state to the closed state (time ratio) and the average time-based water supply amount into the control panel 80. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 8, the time ratio and average time-based water supply amount may be selectable from a pull-down menu. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, multiple options showing both the time ratio and average time-based water supply amount may be displayed, allowing the user to select from these options.

[0086] When a time ratio is selected and a value is entered or selected, the control unit 5 controls the opening and closing of the opening / closing unit 105b based on the above value. At this time, the control unit 5 may also calculate the time-averaged water supply amount corresponding to the above value of the time ratio and display it on the operation panel 80.

[0087] When the average time water supply is selected and a value is entered or selected, the control unit 5 calculates the time ratio required to achieve the above value and controls the opening and closing of the opening / closing unit 105b based on the calculated time ratio. At this time, the control unit 5 may display the calculated time ratio on the operation panel 80.

[0088] The control unit 5 may store a table representing the correspondence between the time ratio and the average water supply amount over time, and may retrieve and apply each value from the table without calculating each value. Alternatively, instead of inputting or selecting the time ratio value, the system may be configured to input or select the time for the open state and the time for the closed state.

[0089] The control panel 80 allows direct input of a period for controlling the open and closed states. Here, the period refers to a fixed period used when calculating the time ratio, or in other words, the period corresponding to the denominator in the average supply amount per unit of time. As a result, the control of the opening and closing section 105b is repeated periodically according to the content of the image formed on the fabric P, thereby improving the cleanability of the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 and the convenience of the user. The control unit 5 may repeatedly perform the control within one period if the period during which the conveyor belt 33 is cleaned by the belt cleaning mechanism 100 is longer than the period.

[0090] The above-mentioned cycles include a first cycle and a second cycle, and the operation panel 80 may be configured to allow direct input of one or more values ​​from the time ratio and the average supply amount per hour for each of the first and second cycles. Specifically, the opening and closing unit 105b is controlled by dividing the cycle according to the content of the image data during the period in which the printed material is manufactured. For example, if the print density is high during the period corresponding to the first cycle and low during the period corresponding to the second cycle, the supply amount of cleaning solution is increased during the first cycle and decreased during the second cycle. This allows for detailed settings of the supply amount, making it possible to set a more suitable supply amount of cleaning solution.

[0091] The control unit 5 may calculate an optimal amount of cleaning solution to be supplied based on one or more of the following: the type of fabric P, the type of liquid such as ink dispensed by the dispensing unit 61, and image data formed on the fabric P. Based on the calculated optimal amount, the control unit 5 may control the time ratio. In other words, the control unit 5 automatically controls the time ratio. This improves user convenience.

[0092] The control unit 5 may control the period for controlling the open state and the closed state based on one or more of the following: the type of fabric P, the type of liquid such as ink discharged by the discharge unit 61, and the image data formed on the fabric P. This allows the time ratio and other parameters to be automatically and periodically changed according to the printing conditions, further improving the cleanability of the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 and the convenience of the user.

[0093] The above cycle includes a first cycle and a second cycle, and the control unit 5 may individually control the time ratio for each of the first and second cycles. This allows for detailed settings to be made automatically, further improving the cleanability of the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 and the convenience for the user.

[0094] The control unit 5 may determine a period for controlling the open and closed states based on one or more of the following: the type of fabric P, the type of liquid such as ink discharged by the discharge unit 61, and image data formed on the fabric P. Based on a predetermined time ratio, the control unit 5 may perform a first control to open the opening / closing unit 105b, and then a second control to close the opening / closing unit 105b, within the period of the above period.

[0095] Specifically, as shown in Figure 14, at time T, the average time-based water supply is set to 0 from time 0 to time T / 2, meaning the opening / closing section 105b is closed, and the average time-based water supply is set to U from time T / 2 to time T, meaning the opening / closing section 105b is open. In this case, the supply amount from time 0 to time T / 2 is 0, the supply amount from time T / 2 to time T is TU / 2, and the supply amount from time 0 to time T is TU / 2. In this case, if the period during which the printed material is manufactured, i.e., the period during which cleaning is performed, is shorter than T, the supply amount will fall below TU / 2, and there is a possibility that the supply amount of cleaning solution will be insufficient.

[0096] In contrast, as shown in Figure 10, the opening / closing section 105b is opened as a first control between time 0 and time T / 2, and closed as a second control between time T / 2 and time T. With this, the supply amount TU / 2 is secured in the first control, so even if the period during which the conveyor belt 33 is cleaned is shorter than time T, there will be no shortage of supply, and the cleanability of the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 can be ensured. Furthermore, it is possible to secure the same supply amount as when the opening degree of the opening / closing section 105b is 50%.

[0097] According to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0098] The amount of cleaning solution supplied can be easily adjusted. Specifically, since the control unit 5 controls the opening / closing unit 105b, it is less likely that there will be an excess or shortage of cleaning solution, and the user can adjust the supply amount without expending any effort. In addition, it is possible for the user to easily set and reproduce the desired supply amount depending on the operating status of the liquid dispensing device 1.

[0099] 2. Second Embodiment In this embodiment, the method for adjusting the amount of cleaning fluid supplied by the control unit 5 and the opening / closing unit 105b differs from that of the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for components common to the first embodiment, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0100] In this embodiment, the control unit 5 adjusts the amount of cleaning fluid supplied from the supply unit 105 to the cleaning fluid tank 103 by controlling the opening degree of the opening / closing unit 105b. In other words, in this embodiment, the opening / closing unit 105b is not controlled only at an opening degree of 0% and an open opening degree of 100%, but the opening degree is arbitrarily changed within the range of 0% to 100%. This point differs from the above embodiment.

[0101] According to this, since the supply amount is adjusted by the opening degree of the opening / closing section 105b, it is possible to adjust the supply amount more quickly compared to changing the time ratio between the open and closed states. In addition to arbitrarily changing the opening degree of the opening / closing section 105b within the range of 0% to 100%, time ratio control may also be used in combination.

[0102] The control unit 5 controls the opening degree of the opening / closing unit 105b based on the information input to the operation panel 80. This information includes the opening degree of the opening / closing unit 105b and the average water supply amount per unit of time.

[0103] The control panel 80 displays one or more set values ​​indicating the amount of cleaning solution supplied. The control unit 5 controls and changes the opening degree based on the set value selected by the user from one or more set values. The set values ​​here refer to the opening degree and the average supply amount per unit of time. As a result, the user's convenience is improved compared to when the user determines the numerical value of the supply amount, because the set value is displayed.

[0104] The control unit 5 calculates the optimal amount of cleaning solution to be supplied based on one or more of the following: the type of fabric P, the type of liquid such as ink discharged by the discharge unit 61, and image data formed on the fabric P. Then, the control unit 5 displays one or more setting values ​​on the operation panel 80 based on the calculated optimal value. The type of liquid and image data affect how easily the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 gets dirty. Therefore, a suitable setting value corresponding to the degree of dirt is displayed, improving the cleanability of the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 and the convenience of the user.

[0105] The control panel 80 may also allow direct input of the opening degree of the opening / closing section 105b and the average supply amount per hour. The control unit 5 controls the opening degree based on the values ​​input to the control panel 80. This improves user convenience as the user can input any value.

[0106] Specifically, as shown in Figure 11, the user inputs either the opening degree or the average water supply rate over time to the display on the control panel 80. Once the user inputs this information into the control panel 80, the control unit 5 changes the opening degree according to the information. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 12, the opening degree and average water supply rate over time may be selectable from a pull-down menu. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, multiple options showing both the opening degree and average water supply rate over time may be displayed, allowing the user to select from these options.

[0107] The control panel 80 allows direct input of a period for controlling the open and closed states. Here, the period refers to a fixed period of time for adjusting the opening degree. As a result, the opening degree is controlled periodically according to the content of the image formed on the fabric P, improving the cleanability of the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 and the convenience for the user.

[0108] The above cycles include the first and second cycles. The control panel 80 may allow direct input of one or more values ​​from the opening degree and the average supply rate per hour for each of the first and second cycles. This allows for detailed settings of the opening degree, making it possible to set a more suitable cleaning fluid supply rate.

[0109] The control unit 5 may calculate an optimal amount of cleaning solution to be supplied based on one or more of the following: the type of fabric P, the type of liquid such as ink discharged by the discharge unit 61, and image data formed on the fabric P. Based on the calculated optimal value, it may control the opening degree of the opening / closing unit 105b. In other words, the opening degree is automatically controlled by the control unit 5. This improves user convenience.

[0110] The control unit 5 may control the period for controlling the opening degree based on one or more of the following: the type of fabric P, the type of liquid such as ink discharged by the discharge unit 61, and the image data formed on the fabric P. This allows the opening degree to be automatically and periodically changed according to the printing conditions, further improving the cleanability of the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 and the convenience of the user.

[0111] The above cycle includes a first cycle and a second cycle, and the control unit 5 may individually control the opening degree of the opening / closing unit 105b for each of the first and second cycles. This allows for detailed settings to be made automatically, which in turn allows for a more favorable adjustment of the cleaning fluid supply amount, as well as further improves the cleanability of the outer surface 33a of the conveyor belt 33 and the convenience for the user.

[0112] According to this embodiment, the same effects as those of the above embodiment can be obtained.

[0113] The following describes the conclusions drawn from the embodiment.

[0114] The liquid dispensing device is characterized by comprising: a conveyor belt that conveys media and has an outer surface on which media can be placed; a dispensing unit that dispenses liquid onto the media that is placed on the outer surface and conveyed; a cleaning unit that cleans the outer surface; a cleaning liquid tank that stores cleaning liquid into which a part of the cleaning unit is immersed; a supply unit that supplies cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank and has an opening / closing unit that switches between an open state in which cleaning liquid is supplied to the cleaning liquid tank and a closed state in which cleaning liquid is not supplied to the cleaning liquid tank; and a control unit that controls the opening / closing unit to adjust the amount of cleaning liquid supplied from the supply unit to the cleaning liquid tank.

[0115] This configuration makes it easy to adjust the supply amount of cleaning fluid. Specifically, because the control unit controls the opening and closing mechanism, it is less likely that there will be an excess or shortage of cleaning fluid, and the supply amount can be adjusted without requiring much effort. Furthermore, it is possible to easily set and reproduce the desired supply amount depending on the operating status of the liquid dispensing device.

[0116] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control unit adjusts the amount of cleaning liquid supplied from the supply unit to the cleaning liquid tank by controlling the time ratio between the open state and the closed state.

[0117] With this configuration, the supply amount is adjusted by time control, making it relatively easier to control the supply amount compared to changing the opening degree of the opening / closing mechanism.

[0118] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control unit adjusts the amount of cleaning liquid supplied from the supply unit to the cleaning liquid tank by controlling the degree of opening of the opening / closing unit when it is in the open state.

[0119] With this configuration, the supply amount is adjusted by the degree of opening of the opening / closing section, making it possible to adjust the supply amount more quickly compared to changing the time ratio between the open and closed states.

[0120] The liquid dispensing device described above is equipped with an operation panel, and the control unit controls the time ratio based on the information entered into the operation panel.

[0121] This configuration allows users to determine the amount supplied.

[0122] In the liquid dispensing device described above, the control panel displays one or more set values ​​indicating the amount of cleaning fluid to be supplied, and the control unit controls the time ratio based on the set value selected from the set values.

[0123] This configuration displays the set value, improving user convenience compared to when the user determines the supply quantity themselves.

[0124] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control unit calculates an optimal value for the amount of cleaning liquid to be supplied based on one or more of the media type, the type of liquid dispensed by the dispensing unit, and the image data formed on the media, and displays one or more set values ​​on the control panel based on the calculated optimal value.

[0125] In this configuration, the type of liquid and image data affect how easily the outer surface of the conveyor belt gets dirty. Therefore, optimal settings corresponding to the degree of dirt are displayed, improving the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience of the user.

[0126] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control panel allows direct input of one or more values ​​from the time ratio and the average supply amount per hour, and the control unit controls the time ratio based on the value input to the control panel.

[0127] This configuration allows users to input arbitrary values, thus improving user convenience.

[0128] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control panel allows direct input of the cycle for controlling the open and closed states.

[0129] With this configuration, the time ratio and other parameters are periodically changed according to the content of the image formed on the media, which improves the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience of the user.

[0130] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the cycle includes a first cycle and a second cycle, and the control panel allows direct input of one or more values ​​from the time ratio and the average supply amount per hour for each of the first and second cycles.

[0131] This configuration allows for detailed settings, further improving the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience for the user.

[0132] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control unit calculates an optimal value for the amount of cleaning liquid supplied based on one or more of the media type, the type of liquid dispensed by the dispensing unit, and the image data formed on the media, and controls the time ratio based on the calculated optimal value.

[0133] This configuration allows the time ratio to be controlled according to the printing conditions, improving the cleanability of the outer surface and the convenience for the user.

[0134] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control unit determines a period for controlling the open state and the closed state based on one or more of the following: the type of media, the type of liquid dispensed by the dispensing unit, and the image data formed on the media.

[0135] With this configuration, the time ratio and other parameters are automatically and periodically changed according to the printing conditions, further improving the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience for the user.

[0136] In the liquid dispensing device described above, the cycle includes a first cycle and a second cycle, and the control unit individually controls the time ratio for each of the first and second cycles.

[0137] With this configuration, detailed settings are made automatically, further improving the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience for the user.

[0138] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control unit determines a period for controlling the open state and the closed state based on one or more of the media type, the type of liquid dispensed by the dispensing unit, and image data formed on the media. Based on a predetermined time ratio, the control unit performs a first control to open the opening / closing unit, and then a second control to close the opening / closing unit, within the period of the period.

[0139] This configuration ensures that the outer surface of the conveyor belt can be cleaned even if the cycle of changing between the open and closed states is long relative to the time it takes for printing to be performed by the liquid ejection device. Specifically, in the above case, if the second control were executed first and then the first control, the cleaning operation would end before the supply of cleaning fluid was complete. As a result, there was a possibility that insufficient cleaning fluid would be produced and sufficient cleaning performance would not be achieved. In contrast, since the cleaning fluid is supplied first, sufficient cleaning performance can be obtained without any shortage of cleaning fluid.

[0140] The above-mentioned liquid dispensing device includes a regulating section in the cleaning liquid tank that defines the liquid level of the cleaning liquid stored therein.

[0141] This configuration allows for a limit to the liquid level of the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning solution tank, thereby preventing the storage of more cleaning solution than necessary.

[0142] The liquid dispensing device described above is equipped with an operation panel, and the control unit controls the opening degree based on the information input to the operation panel.

[0143] This configuration allows users to determine the amount supplied.

[0144] In the liquid dispensing device described above, the control panel displays one or more set values ​​indicating the amount of cleaning fluid to be supplied, and the control unit controls the opening degree based on the set value selected from the one or more set values.

[0145] This configuration displays the set value, improving user convenience compared to when the user determines the supply quantity themselves.

[0146] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control unit calculates an optimal value for the amount of cleaning liquid to be supplied based on one or more of the media type, the type of liquid dispensed by the dispensing unit, and the image data formed on the media, and displays the optimal setting value from one or more setting values ​​on the control panel based on the calculated optimal value.

[0147] In this configuration, the type of liquid and image data affect how easily the outer surface of the conveyor belt gets dirty. Therefore, optimal settings corresponding to the degree of dirt are displayed, improving the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience of the user.

[0148] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control panel allows direct input of either the opening degree or the average supply amount per hour, and the control unit controls the opening degree based on the value input to the control panel.

[0149] This configuration allows users to input arbitrary values, thus improving user convenience.

[0150] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control panel allows direct input of the cycle for controlling the open and closed states.

[0151] With this configuration, the opening degree is periodically changed according to the content of the image formed on the media, which improves the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience of the user.

[0152] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the cycle includes a first cycle and a second cycle, and the control panel allows direct input of one or more values ​​from the opening degree and the average supply rate per unit time for each of the first and second cycles.

[0153] This configuration allows for detailed settings, further improving the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience for the user.

[0154] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control unit calculates an optimal value for the amount of cleaning liquid supplied based on one or more of the media type, the type of liquid dispensed by the dispensing unit, and image data formed on the media, and controls the opening degree based on the calculated optimal value.

[0155] This configuration allows the opening degree to be controlled according to the printing conditions, improving the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience for the user.

[0156] In the above-described liquid dispensing device, the control unit determines a period for controlling the opening degree based on one or more of the following: the type of media, the type of liquid dispensed by the dispensing unit, and the image data formed on the media.

[0157] With this configuration, the opening angle is automatically and periodically changed according to the printing conditions, further improving the cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and the convenience for the user.

[0158] In the liquid dispensing device described above, the cycle includes a first cycle and a second cycle, and the control unit individually controls the opening degree for each of the first and second cycles.

[0159] With this configuration, detailed settings are made automatically, resulting in a more optimal adjustment of the cleaning solution supply, as well as improved cleanability of the outer surface of the conveyor belt and greater user convenience. [Explanation of symbols]

[0160] 1...Liquid dispensing device, 5...Control unit, 33...Conveyor belt, 33a...Outer surface, 61...Dispensing section, 80...Operation panel, 101...Washing section, 103...Washing liquid tank, 105...Supply section, 105b...Opening / closing section, 107...Regulation section, Lv...Liquid level, P...Fabric as media.

Claims

1. A conveyor belt having an outer surface on which media can be transported and on which media can be placed, A dispensing unit for dispensing liquid onto the media that is placed on the outer surface and transported, A cleaning unit for cleaning the outer surface, A cleaning liquid tank for storing a cleaning liquid into which a part of the cleaning section is immersed, A supply unit that supplies the cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank and has an opening / closing mechanism that switches between an open state in which the cleaning liquid is supplied to the cleaning liquid tank and a closed state in which the cleaning liquid is not supplied. A liquid dispensing device comprising a control unit that controls the opening and closing unit to adjust the amount of cleaning liquid supplied from the supply unit to the cleaning liquid tank.

2. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit adjusts the amount of cleaning liquid supplied from the supply unit to the cleaning liquid tank by controlling the time ratio between the open state and the closed state.

3. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit adjusts the amount of cleaning liquid supplied from the supply unit to the cleaning liquid tank by controlling the degree of opening of the opening / closing unit in the open state.

4. Equipped with a control panel, The liquid dispensing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit controls the time ratio based on information input to the operation panel.

5. The control panel displays one or more set values ​​indicating the supply amount of the cleaning solution. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 4, wherein the control unit controls the time ratio based on a setting value selected from the setting values.

6. The control unit, Based on one or more of the type of media, the type of liquid discharged by the discharge unit, and the image data formed on the media, the optimal value for the supply amount of the cleaning liquid is calculated. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 5, wherein one or more of the set values ​​are displayed on the operation panel based on the calculated optimal value.

7. Equipped with a control panel, The control panel allows direct input of one or more values ​​from the time ratio and the average supply amount per hour. The liquid dispensing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit controls the time ratio based on the value input to the operation panel.

8. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 7, wherein the control panel allows direct input of a period for controlling the open state and the closed state.

9. The aforementioned period includes a first period and a second period, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 8, wherein the control panel allows direct input of one or more of the time ratio and the average supply amount per unit time for each of the first and second cycles.

10. The control unit, Based on one or more of the type of media, the type of liquid discharged by the discharge unit, and the image data formed on the media, the optimal value for the supply amount of the cleaning liquid is calculated. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 2, wherein the time ratio is controlled based on the calculated optimal value.

11. The liquid dispensing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the control unit determines a period for controlling the open state and the closed state based on one or more of the type of the media, the type of liquid dispensed by the dispensing unit, and the image data formed on the media.

12. The aforementioned period includes a first period and a second period, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 11, wherein the control unit individually controls the time ratio for each of the first and second cycles.

13. The control unit, Based on one or more of the type of media, the type of liquid discharged by the discharge unit, and the image data formed on the media, the period for controlling the open state and the closed state is determined. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 2, wherein, based on a predetermined time ratio, a first control is performed to open the opening / closing part within the period of the cycle, and then a second control is performed to close the opening / closing part.

14. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising a regulating section in the cleaning liquid tank for defining the liquid level of the cleaning liquid stored therein.

15. Equipped with a control panel, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 3, wherein the control unit controls the opening degree based on information input to the operation panel.

16. The control panel displays one or more set values ​​indicating the supply amount of the cleaning solution. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 15, wherein the control unit controls the opening degree based on a setting value selected from one or more of the setting values.

17. The control unit, Based on one or more of the type of media, the type of liquid discharged by the discharge unit, and the image data formed on the media, the optimal value for the supply amount of the cleaning liquid is calculated. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 16, wherein the optimal setting value among one or more of the setting values ​​is displayed on the operation panel based on the calculated optimal value.

18. The control panel allows direct input of the opening degree or the average supply amount per hour. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 15, wherein the control unit controls the opening degree based on the value input to the operation panel.

19. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 18, wherein the control panel allows direct input of a period for controlling the open state and the closed state.

20. The aforementioned period includes a first period and a second period, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 19, wherein the control panel allows direct input of one or more of the opening degree and the average supply amount per unit time for each of the first and second cycles.

21. The control unit, Based on one or more of the type of media, the type of liquid discharged by the discharge unit, and the image data formed on the media, the optimal value for the supply amount of the cleaning liquid is calculated. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 3, wherein the opening degree is controlled based on the calculated optimal value.

22. The liquid dispensing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the control unit determines a period for controlling the opening degree based on one or more of the type of media, the type of liquid dispensed by the dispensing unit, and the image data formed on the media.

23. The aforementioned period includes a first period and a second period, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 22, wherein the control unit individually controls the opening degree for each of the first and second cycles.

Images