Recording device

Abstract

To provide a recording device that improves operating efficiency. [Solution] The recording device 1 has an adhesive layer Ad to which a fabric P can be attached, a conveyor belt 33 for conveying the fabric P attached to the adhesive layer Ad, a recording unit 60 for recording by ejecting pigment ink onto the conveyed fabric P, a cleaning mechanism 100 for cleaning the adhesive layer Ad, and a control unit 5 for controlling the execution of a first cleaning mode and a second cleaning mode. The control unit 5 is characterized in that, in the first cleaning mode, it supplies a first cleaning liquid having the property of swelling the adhesive layer Ad to the cleaning mechanism 100, causing the cleaning mechanism 100 to clean the adhesive layer Ad, and in the second cleaning mode, it supplies a second cleaning liquid not having the above property to the cleaning mechanism 100, causing the cleaning mechanism 100 to clean the adhesive layer Ad.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a recording apparatus that discharges a liquid such as ink onto a medium such as paper or fabric has been known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a recording apparatus including a conveyance belt that conveys a recording medium as a medium, and a cleaning unit that cleans the conveyance belt.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the apparatus described in Patent Document 1 has a problem that it is difficult to improve the operation rate. Specifically, when a pigment is used as a coloring material of ink, components containing the pigment may adhere to the surface of the conveyance belt and a pigment film may be formed. The pigment film is difficult to remove with a cleaning liquid such as water or a surfactant, and the above apparatus does not disclose the removal of the pigment film. Maintenance work is required for the removal of the pigment film, and the downtime of the apparatus may be prolonged. That is, there has been a demand for a recording apparatus that shortens the downtime due to maintenance work or the like and improves the operation rate.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The recording device comprises an adhesive layer to which a fabric can be attached, a conveyor belt for conveying the fabric attached to the adhesive layer, a recording unit for dispensing pigment ink onto the conveyed fabric to perform recording, a cleaning mechanism for cleaning the adhesive layer, and a control unit for controlling the execution of a first cleaning mode and a second cleaning mode. The control unit is characterized in that, in the first cleaning mode, it supplies a first cleaning solution having the property of swelling the adhesive layer to the cleaning mechanism, causing the cleaning mechanism to clean the adhesive layer, and in the second cleaning mode, it supplies a second cleaning solution not having the aforementioned property to the cleaning mechanism, causing the cleaning mechanism to clean the adhesive layer. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram showing the configuration of a recording device according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram showing the configuration of the cleaning mechanism. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] In the embodiments described below, a recording device 1 used for digital printing of woven fabrics will be illustrated and explained with reference to the drawings. Note that the use of the recording device of the present invention is not limited to printing.

[0008] In the following diagrams, mutually orthogonal coordinate axes, the X, Y, and Z axes, are shown, with the direction indicated by each arrow being the + direction and the opposite direction being the - direction. When the recording device 1 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 path of a fabric recording medium, where the fabric is unrolled from the original roll, printed, and then wound into a roll, the side where the original roll is unrolled may be called the upstream, and the side where the fabric is wound may be called the downstream. Furthermore, the direction in which the fabric is transported from upstream to downstream is called the transport direction.

[0010] As shown in Figure 1, the recording device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a control unit 5, a media transport unit 2, a recording unit 60, a drying unit 70, a winding unit 40, an operation panel 80, and a cleaning mechanism 100. The recording device 1 also includes a housing (not shown). Each component of the recording device 1 is supported by a frame F.

[0011] The recording device 1 applies pigment ink or the like to a piece of fabric P to form an image such as a picture, photograph, text, or pattern on the fabric P, thereby producing a printed object. 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 recording device 1 and comprehensively controls the operation of each component. As will be described in detail later, the control unit 5 particularly controls the execution of the first cleaning mode and the second cleaning mode in the cleaning mechanism 100.

[0013] The control unit 5 includes hardware such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). The control unit 5 executes a predetermined control program using 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 CPU's work area. The CPU loads the control program read from the ROM or other memory into the RAM and executes the loaded control program.

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

[0015] The control panel 80 is supported by the frame F via a component (not shown) and is positioned at the upper and +Y end of the recording device 1. The user stands in the +Y direction of the recording device 1 and makes various inputs while visually viewing the control panel 80. The control panel 80 is, for example, a touch panel type liquid crystal display. In addition to the liquid crystal display, the control panel 80 may also have physical buttons.

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

[0017] The media supply unit 10 includes a supply shaft 11, a bearing unit 12, and a rotary drive unit (not shown). The supply shaft 11 is substantially cylindrical and holds the core of the raw fabric roll P. The bearing unit 12 detachably and rotatably supports both ends of the supply shaft 11 in the direction along the X axis.

[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 the 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. The fabric P is made by processing the above fibers into a woven or nonwoven fabric. In order to improve the properties of the fabric products manufactured from the printed fabric P, the fabric P may be pre-processed.

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

[0022] The conveying belt 33 is located between the transport roller 22 and the transport roller 23 and conveys the fabric P. The conveying belt 33 is an endless belt and is stretched over an area including positions that oppose the recording unit 60 in the vertical direction by the belt rotating rollers 31 and 32. The conveying belt 33 has an outer peripheral surface 33a and an inner peripheral surface 33b. The outer peripheral surface 33a and the inner peripheral surface 33b are in a front-back relationship. The fabric P can be placed on the outer peripheral surface 33a.

[0023] The conveying belt 33 has an adhesive layer (not shown). The adhesive layer has an adhesive force to the fabric P, and the fabric P can be attached. The adhesive layer is provided over the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface 33a. The conveying belt 33 is rotationally driven counterclockwise by the belt rotating rollers 31 and 32 with the fabric P attached to the adhesive layer. Thereby, the fabric P is conveyed in the conveying direction. The conveying direction of the fabric P on the conveying belt 33 is the +Y direction.

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

[0025] The belt rotating rollers 31 and 32 are substantially cylindrical rotating members and are paired with each other. The belt rotating rollers 31 and 32 are each rotatable about a rotation axis along the X-axis. The belt rotating roller 31 and the belt rotating roller 32 are arranged to face each other in the direction along the Y-axis. The belt rotating roller 31 is upstream of the conveying mechanism 30 and is arranged in the vicinity of the +Y direction of the transport roller 22. The belt rotating roller 32 is downstream of the conveying mechanism 30 and is arranged in the vicinity of the -Y direction of the transport roller 23. A support member for supporting the conveying belt 33 may be arranged between the belt rotating roller 31 and the belt rotating roller 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 having adhesive properties, such as silicone resin, acrylic resin, or urethane resin. In the recording device 1, acrylic resin is used as the base material for the adhesive layer. Examples of known acrylic resins include polybutyl acrylate.

[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 presses the fabric P against the adhesive layer of the conveyor belt 33, thereby attaching the fabric P to the adhesive layer.

[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. Furthermore, depending on the type of fabric P and the characteristics of the adhesive layer, the heating section 54 may be omitted.

[0040] The following heat roller system is an example of a configuration in which the pressing roller 51 has the function of heating the conveyor belt 33. The heat roller system comprises a support plate having substantially the same shape as the heating unit 54, a heat roller having the same shape as the pressing roller 51, a pair of support units 53, and a pair of drive units. In other words, the heat roller system operates similarly to the pressing unit 50, except that the heat roller takes over the heating function of the heating unit 54.

[0041] The recording unit 60 is positioned in the middle of the Y-axis direction of the conveyor belt 33, facing the outer surface 33a and the fabric P in the vertical direction. The recording unit 60 discharges pigment ink or the like onto the fabric P being conveyed on the conveyor belt 33, thereby recording the image. This prints the image onto the fabric P. The recording unit 60 includes an inkjet head, an ejection unit 61, a carriage 62, and a guide rail 63.

[0042] 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.

[0043] The discharge unit 61 discharges pigment ink and functional liquids onto the fabric P, which 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 pigment inks exhibiting colors such as cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, and functional liquids onto the fabric P. Examples of pigment inks include water-based inks and non-water-based inks. In this embodiment, water-based pigment inks are used.

[0044] 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.

[0045] Although not shown in the diagram, the pigment ink and functional liquid are supplied from the ink tanks to the discharge unit 61 via ink piping. The pigment ink and functional liquid discharged from the discharge unit 61 adhere to the upward-facing surface of the fabric P.

[0046] 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, pigment ink or the like is attached to the fabric P from the discharge unit 61 at a predetermined timing. This forms a desired image on the fabric P.

[0047] The functional liquid is specifically a softener or pretreatment liquid. The dispensing of the functional liquid onto the fabric P is simultaneous with or preceding / contemporaneous with the dispensing of the pigment ink.

[0048] 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 softeners can be used. If the softener contains cationic components, it may react with the components of the pigment ink and form aggregates. Therefore, it is preferable to avoid contact or mixing of the softener and the pigment ink.

[0049] The pretreatment solution has the function of agglomerating pigments and resins in the pigment 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 agglomerates the pigments, it is preferable to avoid contact or mixing of the pretreatment solution with the pigment ink for purposes other than its intended use.

[0050] 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 pigment ink into fabric P.

[0051] In the dispensing unit 61, pre-dispensing is performed before dispensing pigment ink and functional liquid onto the fabric P, and in between dispensing operations. Pre-dispensing is performed to suppress drying and solidification of pigment 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 pigment ink and functional liquid to be pre-dispensed are set appropriately according to the type and characteristics of the pigment ink and functional liquid.

[0052] The printed fabric P is then transported further in the +Y direction from a position opposite the recording unit 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] The cleaning mechanism 100 cleans the adhesive layer of the conveyor belt 33. The 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.

[0055] In this case, due to the presence of an adhesive layer, the close contact with the fabric P during transport, and the pre-discharge process, the adhesive layer on the outer surface 33a is prone to contamination from pigment ink, lint and other foreign matter from the fabric P. If the adhesive layer is significantly soiled, the transport belt 33 may contaminate the fabric P again when it makes contact with it before printing. Furthermore, the soiling could reduce the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer.

[0056] In particular, some pigment inks and functional liquids may pass through the fabric P and reach the adhesive layer, forming a pigment film on the surface of the adhesive layer. Furthermore, pigment inks often contain fixing resins to improve their adhesion to the fabric P. These factors can facilitate the formation of a pigment film in the adhesive layer. Additionally, using a pretreatment liquid as a functional liquid can promote pigment aggregation, leading to increased pigment film formation.

[0057] When pigment film formation or dirt accumulation becomes significant, the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer decreases, which may hinder the transport of the fabric P. In such cases, maintenance work such as reapplying the adhesive layer or replacing the transport belt 33 is performed. Since maintenance work such as reapplying the adhesive layer is performed by stopping the operation of the recording device 1, it was a factor that reduced the operating rate of the recording device 1. In contrast, the recording device 1 uses a cleaning mechanism 100 to clean the dirt from the adhesive layer, reducing the frequency of maintenance work. Details of the cleaning mechanism 100 will be described later.

[0058] In the non-conveying path of the conveyor belt 33, a detection unit 110 is provided between the cleaning mechanism 100 and the belt rotating roller 31. The detection unit 110 detects the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer of the conveyor belt 33. The detection unit 110 is electrically connected to the control unit 5. The adhesive strength information detected by the detection unit 110 is transmitted to the control unit 5. The detection unit 110 makes it possible to monitor the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer, or in other words, the degree of contamination of the adhesive layer.

[0059] A known adhesion strength meter can be used as the detection unit 110. The placement of the detection unit 110 is not limited to being between the washing mechanism 100 and the belt rotating roller 31. Furthermore, the detection unit of the present invention is not limited to an adhesion strength meter. The detection unit of the present invention may be, for example, a mechanism that calculates the adhesion strength from the peeling angle of the fabric P peeled off by the belt rotating roller 32. Alternatively, the detection unit of the present invention may be a mechanism that calculates the adhesion strength from the rotational resistance of the conveying drive motor that rotates the belt rotating roller 32.

[0060] The conveyor belt 33 is folded back from the non-conveyor path to the conveyor path by the belt rotation roller 31, and moves in the +Y direction with its outer surface 33a facing upward. In this way, the conveyor belt 33 rotates counterclockwise.

[0061] 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.

[0062] A drying section 70 is positioned between the transport rollers 23 and 24. The drying section 70 dries the pigment 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 pigment ink and functional liquid adhering to the fabric P to evaporate. As a result, the droplets of pigment ink and functional liquid dry, making it possible to wind the fabric P in the winding section 40. The fabric P proceeds to the winding section 40 via the transport rollers 24.

[0063] 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 recording device 1.

[0064] As shown in Figure 2, the cleaning mechanism 100 includes a cleaning unit 101, a storage tank 102, 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 cleaning mechanism 100 cleans and washes away pigment coatings and dirt adhering to the adhesive layer Ad on 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.

[0065] The cleaning unit 101, the wiping unit 111, and the wiping unit 113 are positioned in contact with the adhesive layer Ad of the conveyor belt 33 and are arranged in the above order toward the -Y direction. The adhesive layer Ad slides against these components in the order of cleaning unit 101, wiping unit 111, and wiping unit 113.

[0066] The cleaning liquid tank 103 is bathtub-shaped with an open top and capable of storing a liquid for cleaning the adhesive layer Ad. The liquid referred to here is the first cleaning liquid, the second cleaning liquid, and a mixture of the first and second cleaning liquids, which will be described later. The above liquid may contain foreign matter such as fragments of the pigment film and dirt that have migrated from the adhesive layer Ad during cleaning. In the following description, the liquid stored in the cleaning liquid tank 103 may be collectively referred to simply as the cleaning liquid.

[0067] 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 lower part 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.

[0068] As cleaning solutions, a first cleaning solution, a second cleaning solution, and a mixture of the first and second cleaning solutions are used. The type of cleaning solution is selected according to the degree of pigment coating and soiling in the adhesive layer Ad.

[0069] Although not shown in the diagram, a drainage mechanism is located at the bottom of the cleaning fluid tank 103. The drainage mechanism discharges the cleaning fluid accumulated in the cleaning fluid tank 103. The drainage mechanism is used when changing the cleaning fluid or cleaning the cleaning fluid tank 103. The drainage mechanism is, for example, an electromagnetic valve, which can be opened and closed by the control unit 5, allowing the cleaning fluid in the cleaning fluid tank 103 to be discharged as desired.

[0070] The first cleaning solution has the property of swelling the adhesive layer Ad. The first cleaning solution is, for example, an organic solvent, and is selected according to the type of adhesive layer Ad. Because the first cleaning solution swells the adhesive layer Ad, it lifts off pigment films and dirt adhering to the surface of the adhesive layer Ad, making them easier to remove. The first cleaning solution is applied in the first cleaning mode. The first cleaning solution is also applied in the third cleaning mode, in which the first cleaning solution and the second cleaning solution are mixed in the cleaning solution tank 103 for cleaning.

[0071] It is preferable that the first cleaning solution does not dissolve the adhesive layer Ad. In other words, it is desirable that the first cleaning solution has relatively low dissolving power with respect to the resin that is the base material of the adhesive layer Ad. The low dissolving power of the first cleaning solution suppresses the deterioration of the adhesive layer Ad.

[0072] The first cleaning solution is not particularly limited, but examples include alcohol-based or glycol ether-based organic solvents such as (2-methoxyethoxy)propanol (also known as dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether), 2-butoxyethanol, ethoxylated propoxylated alcohol (C=16-18), 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, and (R)-4-isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexa-1-ene. In addition to the above organic solvents, the first cleaning solution may also contain additives such as water and defoamers.

[0073] The first cleaning solution preferably does not contain surfactants. This suppresses foaming caused by the first cleaning solution. Furthermore, since the use of surfactants necessitates rinsing, the rinsing step and mechanism can be eliminated.

[0074] The second cleaning solution does not have the property of swelling the adhesive layer Ad. The second cleaning solution is, for example, water. Examples of water include pure water such as ion-exchanged water, ultrafiltered water, reverse osmosis water, and distilled water, as well as tap water. In this embodiment, tap water is used as the second cleaning solution. The second cleaning solution is applied to the second and third cleaning modes.

[0075] The second cleaning solution may contain additives such as disinfectants. From the same viewpoint as the first cleaning solution, it is preferable that the second cleaning solution does not contain surfactants.

[0076] The supply unit 105 supplies a first cleaning liquid and a second cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank 103 of the cleaning mechanism 100. The supply unit 105 includes a liquid transfer pump 105a, piping 105b, an on / off unit 105c, and a supply pipe 105d for supplying the first cleaning liquid. The supply unit 105 also includes piping 105e, an on / off unit 105f, and a supply pipe 105g for supplying the second cleaning liquid.

[0077] The liquid transfer pump 105a, piping 105b, switch 105c, and supply pipe 105d, and the piping 105e, switch 105f, and supply pipe 105g are arranged in the order described above, each leading towards the cleaning fluid tank 103. Supply pipe 105g is connected to supply pipe 105d midway. In other words, the second cleaning fluid flows from supply pipe 105g into supply pipe 105d, and then is supplied to the cleaning fluid tank 103. The first cleaning fluid and the second cleaning fluid flow in the order described above within the supply unit 105.

[0078] The storage tank 102 stores the first cleaning solution. The storage tank 102 is a liquid storage container, for example, a resin tank. The storage tank 102 has a lid (not shown), and by opening the lid, the first cleaning solution can be supplied to the storage tank 102. By closing the lid, the storage tank 102 is sealed.

[0079] Since the user only needs to replenish the first cleaning solution in the storage tank 102, user convenience is improved. Furthermore, because the storage tank 102 functions as a buffer tank, it is possible to replenish the first cleaning solution in the storage tank 102 while the cleaning mechanism 100 consumes it.

[0080] The piping 105b of the supply unit 105 is connected to the storage tank 102 via the liquid transfer pump 105a. The liquid transfer pump 105a sends the first cleaning liquid stored in the storage tank 102 to the piping 105b. The piping 105b is connected to the opening / closing unit 105c.

[0081] The opening / closing section 105c changes the supply amount of the first cleaning liquid supplied to the cleaning liquid tank 103. The opening / closing section 105c is connected to the piping 105b and the supply pipe 105d, and the first cleaning liquid, whose supply amount has been adjusted, is sent to the cleaning liquid tank 103 via the supply pipe 105d.

[0082] The valve (not shown) within the opening / closing section 105c can be arbitrarily adjusted to change its opening degree between fully open and fully closed. The opening degree of the valve in the opening / closing section 105c is controlled by the control unit 5. That is, the control unit 5 controls the opening / closing section 105c of the supply unit 105 to adjust the amount of first cleaning fluid supplied to the cleaning fluid tank 103. This improves user convenience compared to when the user manually adjusts the supply amount. A known valve mechanism, such as an electromagnetic valve, is applied to the valve in the opening / closing section 105c.

[0083] The supply pipe 105d connects the opening / closing section 105c to the cleaning fluid tank 103. The supply pipe 105d is connected to the side wall of the cleaning fluid tank 103 in the +Y direction and communicates the inside of the opening / closing section 105c with the inside of the cleaning fluid tank 103. As described above, the end of the supply pipe 105g is connected to the supply pipe 105d.

[0084] The pipe 105e connects the supply source for the second cleaning fluid to the on / off unit 105f. In this embodiment, since tap water is used as the second cleaning fluid, the pipe 105e is connected to a tap water faucet, for example, via a flexible hose. Alternatively, the pipe 105e may be connected to a container similar to the storage tank 102, and the second cleaning fluid, such as tap water, may be supplied from that container.

[0085] The opening / closing unit 105f changes the supply amount of the second cleaning liquid supplied to the cleaning liquid tank 103. The opening / closing unit 105f is connected to the piping 105e and the supply pipe 105g, and sends the second cleaning liquid, whose supply amount has been adjusted, to the supply pipe 105g.

[0086] The valve (not shown) within the opening / closing section 105f can be arbitrarily adjusted in opening degree between fully open and fully closed. The opening degree of the valve in the opening / closing section 105f is controlled by the control unit 5. That is, the control unit 5 controls the opening / closing section 105f of the supply unit 105 to adjust the amount of second cleaning fluid supplied to the cleaning fluid tank 103. The valve in the opening / closing section 105f is fitted with a valve mechanism similar to that of the opening / closing section 105c.

[0087] Here, by adjusting the opening degree of the opening / closing section 105c and the opening degree of the opening / closing section 105f, it becomes possible to supply the first cleaning solution and the second cleaning solution to the cleaning solution tank 103 simultaneously. Therefore, the concentration of the first cleaning solution in the cleaning solution can be adjusted.

[0088] The supply pipe 105g connects the opening / closing section 105f and the supply pipe 105d. The supply pipe 105g is connected in the middle of the supply pipe 105d and communicates the inside of the opening / closing section 105f with the inside of the supply pipe 105d.

[0089] The first and second cleaning fluids supplied from the supply unit 105 flow down the side walls in the +Y direction of the cleaning fluid tank 103 and accumulate at the bottom of the tank. The arrangement of the components of the supply unit 105 described above is just an example and is not limited to that.

[0090] The defining portion 107 defines the volume of cleaning fluid to be stored in the cleaning fluid tank 103. The defining portion 107 is positioned at the bottom of the cleaning fluid tank 103, closer to the -Y direction. The defining portion 107 is a plate-shaped partition member. The defining portion 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 region partitioned by the side walls and bottom of the cleaning fluid tank 103 and the defining portion 107.

[0091] In Figure 2, the above region is shown as hatched with diagonal lines. Figure 2 shows the state where the cleaning fluid is at liquid level Lv1, which is the liquid level when the cleaning fluid tank 103 is full of cleaning fluid. If more cleaning fluid is supplied from the state where it is at liquid level Lv1, the cleaning fluid will overflow the designated 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.

[0092] The cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge section 109 may be stored in a wastewater tank or the like, or it may be circulated and reused. When circulating and reusing the liquid, the coagulation section, recovery section, and circulation section are arranged in the above order following the discharge section 109.

[0093] In the aggregation section, pigment particles and resin components contained in the pigment ink are aggregated. The pigment particles are dispersed in water by anionic groups introduced on the particle surface or by a dispersion resin having anionic groups attached to the pigment particles. Therefore, when cationic components are added, dispersion stability is inhibited, making the pigment particles and dispersion resin more prone to aggregation. For this reason, cationic components are added in the aggregation section to aggregate the pigment particles and dispersion resin.

[0094] In the recovery section, foreign matter such as pigment coatings and dust, as well as aggregated pigment particles and dispersed resins, are recovered and removed by filtration.

[0095] The circulation unit is, for example, a pump for delivering liquid, which supplies the cleaning liquid from which foreign matter and pigment particles have been removed to the cleaning liquid tank 103 or the storage tank 102, depending on the composition of the cleaning liquid. Alternatively, the drainage mechanism described above may be configured with a coagulation unit, a recovery unit, and a circulation unit to reuse the cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning liquid tank 103.

[0096] The cleaning mechanism 100 operates either when the cleaning solution is at liquid level Lv1 or at liquid level Lv2, which is lower than liquid level Lv1. A portion of the lower part of the cleaning unit 101 remains submerged in the cleaning solution in the cleaning solution tank 103 even at liquid level Lv2. When cleaning at liquid level Lv1, the first or second cleaning solution may be continuously supplied to create a continuous flow. This causes foreign matter in the cleaning solution tank 103 to be discharged along with the cleaning solution beyond the specified section 107. As a result, the amount of foreign matter in the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning solution tank 103 is reduced, and the cleanliness of the cleaning solution is maintained. In contrast, at liquid level Lv2, the supply of the first and second cleaning solutions may be stopped, and the cleaning may be performed using only the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning solution tank 103.

[0097] The regulating section 107 defines the maximum liquid level Lv1, i.e., the upper limit of the liquid surface, of the cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning liquid tank 103, thereby preventing more cleaning liquid from being stored in the cleaning liquid tank 103 than necessary. Furthermore, by supplying cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank 103, the cleaning liquid can be allowed to overflow, thereby maintaining the cleanliness of the stored cleaning liquid.

[0098] A liquid level measuring unit 104 is provided in the cleaning liquid tank 103 to measure the height of the liquid level of the cleaning liquid stored in the tank 103, i.e., the liquid level. The liquid level measuring unit 104 is a known liquid level sensor, such as a contact type or a non-contact type. The liquid level measuring unit 104 measures the position of the liquid level, including liquid levels Lv1 and Lv2. The liquid level measuring unit 104 is electrically connected to the control unit 5. The information on the liquid level height measured by the liquid level measuring unit 104 is transmitted to the control unit 5. The control unit 5 can adjust the position of the liquid level, including liquid levels Lv1 and Lv2, by controlling the supply unit 105 and the drainage mechanism described above.

[0099] The composition of the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning solution tank 103, that is, the concentration of the first cleaning solution, may be adjusted by adding water to the first cleaning solution in the storage tank 102, or by adjusting the ratio of the first cleaning solution to the second cleaning solution supplied from the supply unit 105. The first cleaning solution may also be used undiluted as the cleaning solution.

[0100] The cleaning unit 101 cleans the adhesive layer Ad 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 its central axis by a drive motor.

[0101] The cleaning unit 101 rotates while coated with cleaning solution and comes into contact with the adhesive layer Ad, scraping off dirt such as pigment coatings. At this time, the control unit 5 selects and performs a first cleaning mode, a second cleaning mode, etc. The first cleaning mode is performed when there is significant adhesion of pigment coatings or dirt on the adhesive layer Ad. The second cleaning mode is performed when there is little to no adhesion of pigment coatings or dirt on the adhesive layer Ad. The third cleaning mode may be performed under conditions intermediate between the first and second cleaning modes.

[0102] Foreign matter such as pigment coatings and dirt is transferred from the adhesive layer Ad to the cleaning unit 101 by the rotation of the cleaning unit 101. After sliding against the adhesive layer Ad, the cleaning unit 101 rotates and immerses itself in the cleaning solution in the cleaning solution tank 103, transferring the foreign matter scraped off the adhesive layer Ad into the cleaning solution and becoming clean. Due to the rotation of the conveyor belt 33, the area of ​​the adhesive layer Ad that has slid against the cleaning unit 101 moves to the wiping unit 111.

[0103] The wiping section 111 slides against the adhesive layer Ad, scraping off any cleaning liquid adhering to it. The wiping section 111 is a roughly plate-shaped rubber member. The cleaning liquid scraped off the surface of the adhesive layer Ad falls downward and is discharged from the discharge section 109. Due to the rotation of the conveyor belt 33, the area of ​​the adhesive layer Ad that has slid against the wiping section 111 moves to the wiping section 113.

[0104] The wiping section 113 absorbs and removes trace amounts of cleaning solution and other residues remaining on the adhesive layer Ad. The wiping section 113 is a substantially cylindrical sponge member with its central axis aligned with the X-axis. Multiple wiping sections 113 are arranged. In the direction along the X-axis, the width of each wiping section 113 is shorter than the width of the adhesive layer Ad. When viewed from above, the wiping sections 113 are arranged alternately. As the adhesive layer Ad passes through multiple wiping sections 113, the entire area of ​​the adhesive layer Ad along the X-axis slides against one of the wiping sections 113.

[0105] Each wiping unit 113 rotates counterclockwise by an electric motor (not shown). Due to the rotation of the conveyor belt 33, the area of ​​the adhesive layer Ad that has slid with the wiping unit 113 passes through the detection unit 110 and returns from the non-conveyor path to the conveyor path. As a result, the adhesive layer Ad of the conveyor belt 33 is cleaned.

[0106] Next, we will describe the control of the cleaning conditions in the cleaning mechanism 100 by the control unit 5. The following explanation will refer to Figures 1 and 2.

[0107] In the first cleaning mode, the control unit 5 supplies the first cleaning solution from the supply unit 105 to the cleaning solution tank 103, causing the cleaning mechanism 100 to clean the adhesive layer Ad. In the second cleaning mode, the control unit 5 supplies the second cleaning solution from the supply unit 105 to the cleaning solution tank 103, causing the cleaning mechanism 100 to clean the adhesive layer Ad. Furthermore, in the third cleaning mode, the control unit 5 supplies both the first and second cleaning solutions from the supply unit 105 to the cleaning solution tank 103, causing the adhesive layer Ad to be cleaned.

[0108] The cleaning power against pigment coatings and other contaminants adhering to the adhesive layer Ad is proportional to the concentration of the component in the first cleaning solution that swells the adhesive layer Ad. In other words, the first cleaning mode has higher cleaning power than the second cleaning mode. The third cleaning mode has lower cleaning power than the first cleaning mode, but higher cleaning power than the second cleaning mode. The cleaning mechanism 100 uses the first cleaning mode, the second cleaning mode, and the third cleaning mode depending on the degree of contamination, such as pigment coatings.

[0109] The cleaning mechanism 100 may continuously clean the conveyor belt 33 while the recording device 1 is in operation and manufacturing the printed material. Alternatively, the cleaning mechanism 100 may perform cleaning before the recording device 1 starts manufacturing the printed material or after manufacturing has finished. In this embodiment, the cleaning mechanism 100 continuously cleans the conveyor belt 33 while the recording device 1 is in operation. In the recording device 1, the adhesive layer Ad is usually in a relatively clean state when operation begins, so the control unit 5 first starts cleaning in the second cleaning mode.

[0110] The control unit 5 executes the first cleaning mode based on the detection unit 110 detecting that the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer Ad has fallen below a threshold. In other words, the first cleaning mode is executed in response to a decrease in the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer Ad. The threshold is, for example, 60% when the initial adhesive strength of the adhesive layer Ad is considered to be 100%.

[0111] In the adhesive layer Ad, as pigment film formation and soiling progress, the adhesive strength gradually decreases. Therefore, the first cleaning mode is automatically executed depending on the degree of pigment film formation and soiling. This suppresses the deterioration of the adhesive layer Ad, further improving the operating rate of the recording device 1. In addition, since the first cleaning mode is executed automatically, user convenience is improved.

[0112] The control unit 5 can execute the first washing mode instead of the second washing mode while the recording device 1 is performing a recording operation on the fabric P, that is, while the printed material is being manufactured. In other words, it is possible to switch from the second washing mode to the first washing mode while the recording device 1 is in operation. The above switching is performed according to the detection result of the detection unit 110 or the user's instructions. For the above switching, the washing liquid may be switched from the second washing liquid to the first washing liquid using the discharge mechanism described above.

[0113] The formation of pigment film and the adhesion of dirt progress during the recording operation. Therefore, by executing the first cleaning mode during the recording operation, the pigment film can be easily removed without growing. This further improves the operating rate of the recording device 1.

[0114] The control unit 5 stops the first cleaning mode based on the detection unit 110 detecting that the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer Ad has exceeded a threshold. That is, the first cleaning mode is stopped and the system switches to the second cleaning mode after the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer Ad has been improved by the first cleaning mode. The threshold is, for example, 90% when the initial adhesive strength of the adhesive layer Ad is set to 100%. To perform the above switching, the cleaning solution may be switched from the first cleaning solution to the second cleaning solution using the discharge mechanism described above.

[0115] When the pigment coating and dirt on the adhesive layer Ad are removed, the adhesive strength is restored. By stopping the first cleaning mode when the adhesive strength is restored, the execution of the first cleaning mode is made necessary and sufficient, and the waste of the first cleaning solution can be reduced. If recording operations are to be performed on the recording device 1 after stopping the first cleaning mode, the second cleaning mode is performed.

[0116] The control unit 5 automatically performs the execution and switching between the first and second cleaning modes based on changes in the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer Ad. In addition, the user may switch between modes at will via the operation panel 80. Furthermore, the user may be able to select the timing and mode of cleaning.

[0117] When switching from the first cleaning mode to the second cleaning mode, the third cleaning mode may be performed first. Similarly, when switching from the second cleaning mode to the first cleaning mode, the third cleaning mode may be performed. The execution of the third cleaning mode shall be in accordance with the detection result of the detection unit 110 or the user's instructions.

[0118] The above describes a method for changing the cleaning mode according to the adhesive strength, but it is not limited to this. The control unit 5 may also change the cleaning mode according to the elapsed time during each cleaning mode. For example, the following methods can be used.

[0119] First, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of recording, the system switches to the first cleaning mode. As mentioned above, the second cleaning mode is basically performed when recording starts. In this case, the predetermined time is, for example, 30 minutes.

[0120] Next, after, for example, 30 minutes have elapsed since the first cleaning mode was performed, the system may switch to the second cleaning mode. Alternatively, after, for example, 30 minutes have elapsed since the first cleaning mode was performed, the system may switch to the third cleaning mode. Alternatively, the first cleaning mode may be continued even after 30 minutes have elapsed.

[0121] Furthermore, the user can choose whether to change the cleaning mode according to the adhesive strength or according to the elapsed time, at any time before the recording operation starts, after it ends, or during the recording operation.

[0122] The control unit 5 can supply the first cleaning solution to the cleaning solution tank 103 in the first cleaning mode, and can also supply the second cleaning solution to the cleaning solution tank 103. That is, while cleaning is being performed in the first cleaning mode, the second cleaning solution may be added to perform the cleaning as a third cleaning mode. Since the first cleaning solution and the second cleaning solution are used in mixture form, a third cleaning mode can be applied in which the mixing ratio of the two solutions is changed according to the degree of pigment coating and the degree of soiling.

[0123] In the first cleaning mode, the control unit 5 discharges the cleaning liquid, which is the liquid accumulated in the cleaning liquid tank 103, from the discharge mechanism, and then supplies the first cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank 103 from the supply unit 105. Next, the control unit 5 cleans the adhesive layer Ad when the first cleaning liquid has accumulated to liquid level Lv1 or liquid level Lv2.

[0124] The cleaning solution accumulated in the cleaning solution tank 103 may contain pigment coatings and dirt removed from the adhesive layer Ad. Therefore, these are drained before a clean first cleaning solution is added and the first cleaning mode is performed. This makes it easier to remove pigment coatings and dirt from the adhesive layer Ad, further suppressing the deterioration of the adhesive layer Ad and further improving the operating rate of the recording device 1.

[0125] In the first cleaning mode, the control unit 5 can supply more of the first cleaning solution from the supply unit 105 to the cleaning solution tank 103 after the first cleaning solution has accumulated in the cleaning solution tank 103 and the adhesive layer Ad is being cleaned. At this time, it is preferable that the first cleaning solution is at liquid level Lv1 when cleaning is started. As additional clean first cleaning solution is supplied, the first cleaning mode is performed while the cleaning solution overflows from the cleaning solution tank 103. This makes it possible to improve the cleaning power of the first cleaning solution on the adhesive layer Ad.

[0126] Furthermore, the additional supply of the first cleaning solution during the first cleaning mode as described above should be performed only when the adhesion of pigment film or dirt to the adhesive layer Ad is severe and the decrease in the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer Ad is particularly significant. If the decrease in adhesive strength is not so severe, no additional supply of the first cleaning solution should be performed, and the cleaning should be carried out at a liquid level Lv2 that prevents the cleaning solution from overflowing from the cleaning solution tank 103.

[0127] According to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0128] The downtime due to maintenance work can be reduced, thereby improving the operating rate of the recording device 1. Specifically, in the first cleaning mode, the adhesive layer Ad swells due to the first cleaning solution, making it easier for pigment coatings and dirt to lift off and be removed from the adhesive layer Ad. As a result, the frequency of maintenance work such as replacing the adhesive layer Ad or the conveyor belt 33 is reduced, and the downtime of the recording device 1 is shortened. Therefore, a recording device 1 with improved operating rate can be provided.

[0129] In the second cleaning mode, cleaning is performed with a second cleaning solution that does not swell the adhesive layer Ad. The second cleaning mode is suitable for light pigment coatings and dirt. Depending on the degree of pigment coating and dirt, it is possible to switch between the first and second cleaning modes. This reduces the amount of first cleaning solution used and improves user convenience.

[0130] The following describes the conclusions drawn from the embodiment.

[0131] The recording device has an adhesive layer to which a fabric can be attached, a conveyor belt for conveying the fabric to be attached to the adhesive layer, a recording unit for dispensing pigment ink onto the conveyed fabric to perform recording, a cleaning mechanism for cleaning the adhesive layer, and a control unit for controlling the execution of a first cleaning mode and a second cleaning mode. The control unit is characterized in that, in the first cleaning mode, it supplies a first cleaning solution having the property of swelling the adhesive layer to the cleaning mechanism, causing the cleaning mechanism to clean the adhesive layer, and in the second cleaning mode, it supplies a second cleaning solution without the property to the cleaning mechanism, causing the cleaning mechanism to clean the adhesive layer.

[0132] This configuration reduces downtime due to maintenance work and improves the operating rate of the recording device. Specifically, in the first cleaning mode, the adhesive layer swells due to the first cleaning solution, making it easier to lift and remove the pigment coating from the adhesive layer. This reduces the frequency of maintenance work such as replacing the adhesive layer or the conveyor belt, and shortens the downtime of the recording device. Therefore, it is possible to provide a recording device with improved operating rate.

[0133] In the second cleaning mode, cleaning is performed using a second cleaning solution that does not swell the adhesive layer. The second cleaning mode is suitable for light pigment coatings and dirt such as dust. Depending on the degree of pigment coating and dirt, it is possible to switch between the first and second cleaning modes. This improves user convenience.

[0134] The recording device described above comprises a storage tank in which the first cleaning fluid is stored, and a supply unit connected to the storage tank for supplying the first cleaning fluid to the cleaning mechanism.

[0135] This configuration improves user convenience because the user only needs to replenish the first cleaning solution in the storage tank. Furthermore, since the storage tank functions as a buffer tank, it is possible to replenish the first cleaning solution in the storage tank even while the first cleaning mode is running.

[0136] In the recording device described above, the control unit controls the supply unit to adjust the amount of the first cleaning solution supplied to the cleaning mechanism.

[0137] This configuration improves user convenience compared to manually adjusting the supply amount.

[0138] In the recording device described above, the cleaning mechanism has a cleaning liquid tank capable of storing liquid, and in the first cleaning mode, the control unit discharges the liquid accumulated in the cleaning liquid tank, then supplies a first cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank, and cleans the adhesive layer with the first cleaning liquid accumulated in the cleaning liquid tank.

[0139] In this configuration, the liquid accumulated in the cleaning tank may contain pigment coatings and dirt from the adhesive layer. By draining these and cleaning with a clean first cleaning solution, the pigment coatings and dirt from the adhesive layer are more easily removed. This further suppresses the deterioration of the adhesive layer and improves the operating rate.

[0140] In the recording device described above, the control unit can supply the first cleaning solution to the cleaning solution tank again when cleaning the adhesive layer after the first cleaning solution has accumulated in the cleaning solution tank during the first cleaning mode.

[0141] With this configuration, an additional clean first cleaning solution is supplied, thereby improving the cleaning power of the first cleaning solution on the adhesive layer.

[0142] In the recording device described above, the control unit can execute the first washing mode during the recording operation in which recording is performed on the fabric.

[0143] With this configuration, the pigment film begins to form during the recording operation. Therefore, by executing the first cleaning mode during the recording operation, the pigment film can be easily removed. This further improves the operating rate of the recording device.

[0144] In the recording device described above, the control unit can supply a first cleaning solution to the cleaning solution tank and a second cleaning solution to the cleaning solution tank in the first cleaning mode.

[0145] This configuration allows for the mixing of the first and second cleaning solutions, enabling the adjustment of the mixing ratio depending on the degree of pigment coating and soiling.

[0146] The recording device described above includes a detection unit for detecting the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer, and the control unit executes a first washing mode based on the fact that the adhesive strength detected by the detection unit falls below a threshold.

[0147] In this configuration, as pigment film formation and soiling progress in the adhesive layer, the adhesive strength gradually decreases. Therefore, the first cleaning mode is automatically executed depending on the degree of pigment film formation and soiling. This suppresses deterioration of the adhesive layer and further improves the operating rate. In addition, since the first cleaning mode is executed automatically, user convenience is improved.

[0148] The recording device described above includes a detection unit for detecting the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer, and the control unit stops the first washing mode based on the fact that the adhesive strength detected by the detection unit exceeds a threshold.

[0149] With this configuration, the adhesive strength is restored when the pigment coating and dirt on the adhesive layer are removed. By stopping the first cleaning mode once the adhesive strength is restored, the execution of the first cleaning mode is made necessary and sufficient, thereby reducing the waste of the first cleaning solution and other materials.

[0150] In the recording device described above, the first cleaning solution does not contain a surfactant.

[0151] This configuration suppresses foaming caused by the first cleaning solution. Furthermore, since the use of surfactants necessitates rinsing, the rinsing step and mechanism can be eliminated. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0152] 1...Recording device, 5...Control unit, 33...Conveyor belt, 60...Recording unit, 100...Washing mechanism, 102...Storage tank, 103...Washing liquid tank, 105...Supply unit, 110...Detection unit, Ad...Adhesive layer, P...Fabric.

Claims

1. A conveyor belt having an adhesive layer to which a fabric can be attached, and the fabric attached to the adhesive layer is conveyed. A recording unit that ejects pigment ink onto the conveyed fabric to record information, A cleaning mechanism for cleaning the adhesive layer, It comprises a control unit that controls the execution of a first cleaning mode and a second cleaning mode, The control unit, In the first cleaning mode, a first cleaning solution having the property of swelling the adhesive layer is supplied to the cleaning mechanism, causing the cleaning mechanism to clean the adhesive layer. A recording device characterized in that, in the second cleaning mode, a second cleaning liquid having the aforementioned characteristics is supplied to the cleaning mechanism, causing the cleaning mechanism to clean the adhesive layer.

2. A storage tank in which the first washing liquid is stored, The recording device according to claim 1, further comprising a supply unit connected to the storage tank and supplying the first cleaning liquid to the cleaning mechanism.

3. The recording device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit controls the supply unit to adjust the amount of the first cleaning liquid supplied to the cleaning mechanism.

4. The cleaning mechanism has a cleaning liquid tank capable of storing liquid, The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit, in the first cleaning mode, discharges the liquid accumulated in the cleaning liquid tank, then supplies the first cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank, and cleans the adhesive layer with the first cleaning liquid accumulated in the cleaning liquid tank.

5. The recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the control unit can supply the first cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank further when cleaning the adhesive layer after the first cleaning liquid has accumulated in the cleaning liquid tank in the first cleaning mode.

6. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit can execute the first washing mode during the recording operation in which the recording is performed on the fabric.

7. The recording device according to claim 4, wherein the control unit is capable of supplying a first cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank and supplying a second cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid tank in the first cleaning mode.

8. The system includes a detection unit for detecting the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer, The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit executes the first washing mode based on the fact that the adhesive force detected by the detection unit has fallen below a threshold.

9. The system includes a detection unit for detecting the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer, The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stops the first washing mode based on the fact that the adhesive force detected by the detection unit has become greater than or equal to a threshold.

10. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first cleaning solution does not contain a surfactant.

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