Recording device and control method

Abstract

The recording device selects cleaning control in response to the occurrence of an event. Therefore, it does not necessarily perform cleaning of the conveyor belt in accordance with the degree of contamination of the conveyor belt. [Solution] A recording device for recording on a recording medium, comprising: a recording means for performing the recording by ejecting ink onto the recording medium; a medium transport belt for transporting the recording medium on which the recording is performed by the recording means; a cleaning means that is movable to a contact position in contact with the medium transport belt or to a non-contact position not in contact with the medium transport belt, and performs a cleaning operation on the medium transport belt when located at the contact position; a discrimination unit for determining the surface state of the medium transport belt; and a control unit for causing the cleaning means to perform the cleaning operation according to the surface state of the medium transport belt determined by the discrimination unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a recording apparatus and a control method.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a recording apparatus having cleaning means for cleaning a conveyance belt that conveys a recording medium. The cleaning means described in Patent Document 1 is configured to be switchable between a contact state and a non-contact state with respect to the conveyance belt. The cleaning means has a cleaning material that contacts and cleans the conveyance belt. The recording apparatus executes first cleaning control and second cleaning control. The first cleaning control is control that does not perform an update operation of the cleaning material during the cleaning operation. The second cleaning control is control that performs an update operation of the cleaning material during the cleaning operation. The recording apparatus performs the first cleaning control or the second cleaning control in response to the occurrence of an event.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The recording apparatus selects cleaning control in response to the occurrence of an event. Therefore, the conveyance belt may not be cleaned in accordance with the contamination state of the conveyance belt.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The recording device of the present disclosure is a recording device for recording on a recording medium, comprising: recording means for performing the recording by ejecting ink onto the recording medium; a medium transport belt for transporting the recording medium on which the recording is performed by the recording means; cleaning means that is movable to a contact position in contact with the medium transport belt or to a non-contact position not in contact with the medium transport belt, and performs a cleaning operation on the medium transport belt when located at the contact position; a discrimination unit for determining the surface state of the medium transport belt; and a control unit for causing the cleaning means to perform the cleaning operation according to the surface state of the medium transport belt determined by the discrimination unit.

[0006] The control method of the present disclosure is a control method for a recording device that records on a recording medium, wherein the recording medium is transported by a medium transport belt, recording is performed by ejecting ink onto the recording medium supported by the medium transport belt, the surface state of the medium transport belt is determined, a cleaning means is moved from a non-contact position that does not contact the medium transport belt to a contact position that contacts the medium transport belt, and the cleaning means in contact with the medium transport belt is made to perform a cleaning operation according to the surface state. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram showing the external appearance of the printer. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the cross-sectional structure of a printer. [Figure 3] A diagram showing the cross-sectional structure of a printer. [Figure 4] A diagram showing the schematic configuration of a conveyor belt unit. [Figure 5] A diagram showing the conveyor belt unit and the belt cleaning mechanism. [Figure 6] A diagram showing the block structure of the printing system. [Figure 7] A flowchart illustrating the belt cleaning process performed in a printer. [Figure 8] A diagram showing an example of a control table. [Figure 9] A diagram showing a flowchart for determining belt cleaning conditions. [Figure 10] A diagram showing a flowchart for determining belt cleaning conditions. [Figure 11] A diagram showing an example of a control table. [Figure 12] A diagram showing an example of a control table. [Figure 13] A diagram showing an example of a control table. [Figure 14] A diagram showing a flowchart for determining belt cleaning conditions. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the external appearance of printer 1. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the external appearance of printer 1. Printer 1 is an inkjet printer. Printer 1 performs printing by ejecting ink onto the printing medium M. Printer 1 corresponds to an example of a recording device. The printing medium M corresponds to an example of a recording medium. Printing corresponds to an example of recording.

[0009] Several figures, including Figure 1, show the XYZ coordinate system. The X-axis is parallel to the mounting surface of the printer 1. The +X direction is the direction in which the paper feed cassette 10, described later, is pulled out. The -X direction is the direction in which the paper feed cassette 10 is inserted. The Y-axis is parallel to the mounting surface of the printer 1. The +Y direction is the direction in which the printing medium M is transported at a position opposite to the printing unit 18, described later. The -Y direction is the opposite direction to the direction in which the printing medium M is transported at a position opposite to the printing unit 18. The Z-axis is perpendicular to the mounting surface of the printer 1. The +Z direction is the direction upward from the mounting surface. The -Z direction is the direction downward from the mounting surface.

[0010] Printer 1 comprises a main unit 2, a scanner unit 3, an output tray 4, a control panel 5, a paper feed cassette 10, and an expansion unit 13. Printer 1 is a multifunction device equipped with a scanner unit 3.

[0011] The apparatus main body 2 is a printer unit having a printing function for printing on a print medium M. The apparatus main body 2 is configured to be able to connect units such as a scanner unit 3 and an expansion unit 13.

[0012] The scanner unit 3 has a reading function for reading a document. The scanner unit 3 reads the document and generates read data. The read data is transmitted to an external device or the like. The printer 1 can print print data based on the read data. The scanner unit 3 is disposed at the position in the +Z direction of the apparatus main body 2.

[0013] The paper discharge tray 4 places the print medium M conveyed inside the apparatus main body 2. The print medium M printed by the printing unit 18 is discharged to the paper discharge tray 4. The paper discharge tray 4 places the print medium M discharged face down.

[0014] The control panel 5 receives operation inputs by the user. The control panel 5 generates input data based on the operation inputs by the user. The control panel 5 displays various screens. The control panel 5 is, for example, composed of a display panel having a touch input function. The display panel is composed of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display, or the like. The control panel 5 may be composed of an operation unit that receives operation inputs by the user and display means having a display function. The control panel 5 corresponds to an example of a display unit.

[0015] The paper feed cassette 10 places the print medium M. The paper feed cassette 10 accommodates the print medium M to be fed to the printing unit 18. The paper feed cassette 10 can accommodate print media M of various sizes. The paper feed cassette 10 is provided at the position in the -Z direction of the apparatus main body 2. The paper feed cassette 10 is configured to be pullable in the +X direction. When the paper feed cassette 10 is pulled out in the +X direction, the print medium M can be fed by the user.

[0016] The opening / closing cover 12 is opened and closed by an operation by the user. The opening / closing cover 12 is swingable about a swing axis not shown. When the opening / closing cover 12 is opened, the apparatus main body 2 is configured to be able to feed the printing medium M. The opening / closing cover 12 functions as a manual feed tray.

[0017] The additional unit 13 is an optional unit that can be attached to the apparatus main body 2. The additional unit 13 is provided at the -Z direction position of the apparatus main body 2. The printer 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a first additional unit 13A and a second additional unit 13B as the additional unit 13. The first additional unit 13A and the second additional unit 13B each include an additional paper feed cassette 14.

[0018] The first additional unit 13A is attached to the apparatus main body 2 at the -Z direction position of the apparatus main body 2. The first additional unit 13A includes a first additional paper feed cassette 14A which is the additional paper feed cassette 14. The first additional paper feed cassette 14A is provided at the -Z direction position of the paper feed cassette 10. The first additional paper feed cassette 14A accommodates the printing medium M. The size of the printing medium M accommodated in the first additional paper feed cassette 14A may be the same as or different from the size of the printing medium M accommodated in the paper feed cassette 10.

[0019] The second additional unit 13B is attached to the first additional unit 13A at the -Z direction position of the first additional unit 13A. The second additional unit 13B includes a second additional paper feed cassette 14B which is the additional paper feed cassette 14. The second additional paper feed cassette 14B is provided at the -Z direction position of the first additional paper feed cassette 14A. The second additional paper feed cassette 14B accommodates the printing medium M. The size of the printing medium M accommodated in the second additional paper feed cassette 14B may be the same as or different from the size of the printing medium M accommodated in the paper feed cassette 10.

[0020] Figure 2 shows the cross-sectional configuration of printer 1. Figure 2 shows the schematic internal configuration of the device body 2. Figure 2 shows the configuration of printer 1 when the conveyor belt 51 is located at the recording position KP. The recording position KP will be described later. Printer 1 can print on the printing medium M. Figure 2 shows printer 1 with the opening / closing cover 12 open. Figure 2 shows the components arranged along the transport path TR. Printer 1 transports the printing medium M along the transport path TR.

[0021] The printer 1 includes a paper feed cassette 10, an opening / closing cover 12, a transport mechanism 15, a printing unit 18, an output tray 4, a transport belt unit 50, a belt unit moving mechanism 60, a head cleaning mechanism 70, and a belt cleaning mechanism 90. The transport path TR includes a first transport path TR1, a second transport path TR2, a printing path PR, a branching path BR, a third transport path TR3, and an output path ER.

[0022] The first transport path TR1 is the path from the paper feed cassette 10 to the paper feed roller pair 33. The first transport path TR1 includes a pickup roller 28, a separation roller 29, and a first roller pair 31.

[0023] The pickup roller 28 feeds out the topmost print medium M from among the stacked print media M stored in the paper feed cassette 10. The pickup roller 28 then feeds the print media M to the separation roller 29. The pickup roller 28 constitutes part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0024] The separation roller 29 separates the printing media M fed out by the pickup roller 28 one sheet at a time. When the pickup roller 28 feeds out multiple sheets of printing media M, the separation roller 29 separates one sheet of printing media M from the multiple sheets. The separation roller 29 feeds the single sheet of printing media M toward the first roller pair 31. The separation roller 29 constitutes part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0025] The first roller pair 31 grips the printing medium M that has been fed out by the separation roller 29. The first roller pair 31 then transports the gripped printing medium M toward the paper feed roller pair 33. The first roller pair 31 transports the printing medium M in the +Z direction. The printing medium M transported along the first transport path TR1 moves from the paper feed cassette 10 to the paper feed roller pair 33. The first roller pair 31 constitutes part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0026] The second transport path TR2 is configured to be accessible when the opening / closing cover 12 is opened. When the opening / closing cover 12 is opened by the user, the paper feed opening 12a is exposed. The paper feed opening 12a is an opening into which the printing medium M can be fed. The opening / closing cover 12 functions as a manual feed tray. The second transport path TR2 is the path from the paper feed opening 12a to the paper feed roller pair 33. The second transport path TR2 includes a second roller pair 32.

[0027] The second roller pair 32 grips the printing medium M fed from the paper feed opening 12a. The second roller pair 32 transports the gripped printing medium M toward the paper feed roller pair 33. The second roller pair 32 transports the printing medium M in the +Y direction. The printing medium M transported along the second transport path TR2 moves from the paper feed opening 12a to the paper feed roller pair 33. The second roller pair 32 constitutes part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0028] The printing path PR is the path from the paper feed roller pair 33 to the branching mechanism 35. The printing path PR comprises the paper feed roller pair 33, the conveyor belt 51, a plurality of toothed rollers 49, and the branching mechanism 35. A first sensor Sa, a printing unit 18, and a second sensor Sb are also provided along the printing path PR.

[0029] The paper feed roller pair 33 transports the printing medium M that has been transported along the first transport path TR1 or the second transport path TR2 to the transport belt 51. The paper feed roller pair 33 also transports the printing medium M that has been transported along the third transport path TR3 to the transport belt 51. The paper feed roller pair 33 transports the printing medium M by adjusting the timing of feeding the printing medium M to the transport belt 51. The paper feed roller pair 33 constitutes part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0030] The conveyor belt 51 supports the printing medium M conveyed by the paper feed roller pair 33. The conveyor belt 51 conveys the supported printing medium M in the +Y direction. The conveyor belt 51 conveys the printing medium M that is printed on by the printing unit 18. The conveyor belt 51 is an endless belt. The conveyor belt 51 supports the printing medium M at the recording position KP shown in Figure 2. The recording position KP is the position where the conveyor belt 51 faces the printing unit 18. The conveying surface 51a of the conveyor belt 51 supports the printing medium M by attracting it with electrostatic attraction. The conveying surface 51a is the outer circumferential surface of the conveyor belt 51. The conveyor belt 51 is provided on the conveyor belt unit 50. The conveyor belt 51 corresponds to an example of a media conveyor belt.

[0031] The conveying surface 51a of the conveying belt 51 located at the recording position KP faces the printing unit 18 in the +Z direction. The conveying surface 51a facing the printing unit 18 moves in the +Y direction. The conveying surface 51a facing the printing unit 18 conveys the printing medium M to a position facing the printing unit 18. The conveying belt 51 constitutes part of the conveying mechanism 15.

[0032] Multiple toothed rollers 49 provided in the printing path PR contact the recording surface of the printing medium M. The recording surface is the surface on which printing has been performed by the printing unit 18. The toothed rollers 49 rotate in accordance with the movement of the printing medium M. The toothed rollers 49 suppress the lifting of the printing medium M. The toothed rollers 49 constitute part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0033] The branching mechanism 35 switches the transport path TR of the printing medium M. The branching mechanism 35 switches the transport path TR to either the paper discharge path ER or the branched path BR. The branching mechanism 35 is located in the +Y direction of the printing unit 18 and the transport belt 51. The branching mechanism 35 is composed of, for example, a flap and a flap drive mechanism. The flap and flap drive mechanism are not shown. The branching mechanism 35 constitutes part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0034] The first sensor Sa detects the presence or absence of the printing medium M. The first sensor Sa is located in the -Y direction of the printing unit 18 along the printing path PR. The first sensor Sa is located between the paper feed roller pair 33 and the printing unit 18. The first sensor Sa is composed of an optical sensor or the like. When the first sensor Sa detects the printing medium M, it outputs a predetermined signal.

[0035] The printing unit 18 prints on the printing medium M. The printing unit 18 prints by ejecting ink onto the printing medium M. The printing unit 18 has an inkjet head 19. The inkjet head 19 has a plurality of nozzles (not shown). The plurality of nozzles are provided on the nozzle surface of the inkjet head 19 in the -Z direction. The inkjet head 19 ejects ink onto the printing medium M conveyed by the transport belt 51. The inkjet head 19 is composed of a line head that is longer than the width of the printing medium M along the X axis. The printing unit 18 corresponds to an example of a recording means. The inkjet head 19 corresponds to an example of a print head.

[0036] The second sensor Sb detects the presence or absence of the printing medium M. The second sensor Sb is located in the +Y direction of the printing unit 18 along the printing path PR. The second sensor Sb is composed of an optical sensor or the like. When the second sensor Sb detects the printing medium M, it outputs a predetermined signal.

[0037] The branching path BR is a path for transporting the printing medium M guided by the branching mechanism 35. The printing medium M, transported to the branching path BR, is then transported to the third transport path TR3. The branching path BR comprises a pair of branching rollers 36 and a plurality of toothed rollers 49.

[0038] The branching roller pair 36 transports the printing medium M guided by the branching mechanism 35 in the +Y direction. Furthermore, the branching roller pair 36 transports the printing medium M toward the third transport path TR3 in the -Y direction. The branching roller pair 36 rotates in the first direction and transports the printing medium M in the +Y direction. The branching roller pair 36 rotates in the second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, and transports the printing medium M in the -Y direction. The branching roller pair 36 rotates in the first direction and the second direction. The branching roller pair 36 constitutes part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0039] Multiple toothed rollers 49 provided in the branching path BR come into contact with the printing medium M. The toothed rollers 49 rotate in accordance with the movement of the printing medium M. The multiple toothed rollers 49 provided in the branching path BR move the printing medium M along the branching path BR. The multiple toothed rollers 49 provided in the branching path BR constitute a part of the conveying mechanism 15.

[0040] The third transport path TR3 is the path from the branching mechanism 35 to the paper feed roller pair 33. The third transport path TR3 is the path that inverts the printing medium M printed by the printing unit 18. As the printing medium M is transported to the printing path PR via the third transport path TR3, the back side of the printing medium M faces the printing unit 18. The third transport path TR3 comprises a first inversion transport roller pair 37, a second inversion transport roller pair 38, a third inversion transport roller pair 39, and a plurality of toothed rollers 49.

[0041] The first reversing transport roller pair 37, the second reversing transport roller pair 38, and the third reversing transport roller pair 39 transport the printing medium M along the third transport path TR3. The first reversing transport roller pair 37, the second reversing transport roller pair 38, and the third reversing transport roller pair 39 transport the printing medium M from the branching roller pair 36 to the paper feed roller pair 33. The printing medium M transported to the paper feed roller pair 33 is then transported to the print path PR. The printing unit 18 prints on the back side of the printing medium M transported to the print path PR. The first reversing transport roller pair 37, the second reversing transport roller pair 38, and the third reversing transport roller pair 39 constitute a part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0042] The first reversing conveyor roller pair 37, the second reversing conveyor roller pair 38, and the third reversing conveyor roller pair 39 are each composed of two rollers. One of the two rollers is driven by a drive transmission mechanism (not shown). The other roller rotates in a driven manner. The other roller may have the same configuration as the toothed roller 49.

[0043] The toothed roller 49 provided in the third transport path TR3 contacts the printing medium M being transported along the third transport path TR3. The toothed roller 49 provided in the third transport path TR3 contacts the printed surface of the printing medium M printed by the printing unit 18. The toothed roller 49 rotates in accordance with the movement of the printing medium M. The toothed roller 49 provided in the third transport path TR3 moves the printing medium M along the third transport path TR3. The toothed roller 49 provided in the third transport path TR3 constitutes part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0044] The paper discharge path ER is the path from the branching mechanism 35 to the discharge port 48. The paper discharge path ER moves the printing medium M guided by the branching mechanism 35 to the discharge port 48. The paper discharge path ER comprises a first pair of paper discharge rollers 41, a second pair of paper discharge rollers 42, a third pair of paper discharge rollers 43, a fourth pair of paper discharge rollers 44, a fifth pair of paper discharge rollers 45, and a plurality of toothed rollers 49.

[0045] The first pair of paper discharge rollers 41, the second pair of paper discharge rollers 42, the third pair of paper discharge rollers 43, the fourth pair of paper discharge rollers 44, and the fifth pair of paper discharge rollers 45 transport the printing medium M along the paper discharge path ER. The first pair of paper discharge rollers 41, the second pair of paper discharge rollers 42, the third pair of paper discharge rollers 43, the fourth pair of paper discharge rollers 44, and the fifth pair of paper discharge rollers 45 transport the printing medium M guided by the branching mechanism 35 to the discharge port 48. The printing medium M transported to the discharge port 48 is discharged to the paper discharge tray 4. The paper discharge tray 4 holds the discharged printing medium M. The first pair of paper discharge rollers 41, the second pair of paper discharge rollers 42, the third pair of paper discharge rollers 43, the fourth pair of paper discharge rollers 44, and the fifth pair of paper discharge rollers 45 constitute a part of the transport mechanism 15.

[0046] The first pair of paper ejection rollers 41, the second pair of paper ejection rollers 42, the third pair of paper ejection rollers 43, the fourth pair of paper ejection rollers 44, and the fifth pair of paper ejection rollers 45 are each composed of two rollers. One of the two rollers is driven by a drive transmission mechanism (not shown). The other roller rotates in a driven manner. The other roller may have the same configuration as the toothed roller 49.

[0047] The toothed roller 49 provided in the paper discharge path ER comes into contact with the printing medium M being transported along the paper discharge path ER. The toothed roller 49 rotates in response to the movement of the printing medium M. The toothed roller 49 provided in the paper discharge path ER moves the printing medium M along the paper discharge path ER. The toothed roller 49 provided in the paper discharge path ER constitutes part of the transport mechanism 15. The conveying mechanism 15 is composed of multiple pairs of rollers, multiple toothed rollers 49, a conveying belt 51, and a drive mechanism (not shown).

[0048] The conveyor belt unit 50 is a unit that includes a conveyor belt 51. The conveyor belt unit 50 is configured to be rotatable. Figure 2 shows the conveyor belt unit 50 with the conveyor belt 51 positioned at recording position KP. Details of the conveyor belt unit 50 will be described later.

[0049] The belt unit moving mechanism 60 rotates the conveyor belt unit 50. The belt unit moving mechanism 60 moves the conveyor belt 51 from the recording position KP to the retracted position TP. The retracted position TP is a different position from the recording position KP. The recording position KP shown in Figure 2 is the position where the conveyor surface 51a facing the printing unit 18 is parallel or approximately parallel to the Y axis. The conveyor belt unit 50 is in a horizontal position at the recording position KP. The retracted position TP is a different position from the position where the conveyor belt 51 faces the printing unit 18. As an example, the belt unit moving mechanism 60 rotates the driven roller 53 with the rotation center of the drive roller 52 as the pivot point. The retracted position TP is shown in Figure 3. The driven roller 53 rotates in the -Z direction and the -Y direction as indicated by the dashed arrow. The belt unit moving mechanism 60 comprises a link member 61 and a motor 63.

[0050] The link member 61 connects to the conveyor belt unit 50. One end of the link member 61 connects to the frame of the conveyor belt unit 50. The link member 61 rotates the conveyor belt unit 50 around the pivot point of the rotation center of the drive roller 52.

[0051] The motor 63 generates a driving force to drive the link member 61. The motor 63 is connected to the link member 61. The rotational drive of the motor 63 causes the link member 61 to rotate the conveyor belt unit 50.

[0052] The head cleaning mechanism 70 performs capping or cleaning of the nozzle surface of the inkjet head 19. The head cleaning mechanism 70 comprises a cap 71, a first support member 72, and a second support member 73. Figure 2 shows a first state in which the head cleaning mechanism 70 is not facing the inkjet head 19.

[0053] The belt cleaning mechanism 90 performs belt cleaning on the conveying surface 51a of the conveying belt 51. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 slides in the +Y direction or the -Y direction by a sliding movement mechanism 98, which will be described later. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 is positioned in the -Z direction and the -Y direction of the conveying belt 51 located at the recording position KP. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 is equipped with a cleaning cloth C. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 corresponds to an example of a cleaning means. The cleaning cloth C corresponds to an example of a cleaning material. Details of the belt cleaning mechanism 90 will be described later.

[0054] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of printer 1. Figure 3 shows a schematic internal view of the main body 2 of the device. Figure 3 shows the configuration of printer 1 when the transport belt 51 is in the retracted position TP. Printer 1 can perform belt cleaning of the transport belt 51 using the belt cleaning mechanism 90. Figure 3 shows printer 1 with the opening / closing cover 12 open. Figure 3 shows a second state where the head cleaning mechanism 70 faces the inkjet head 19. The configuration of printer 1 shown in Figure 3 is the same as the configuration of printer 1 shown in Figure 2. The position of the transport belt unit 50 and the position of the head cleaning mechanism 70 differ between Figure 2 and Figure 3.

[0055] The retracted position TP of the conveyor belt 51 shown in Figure 3 is the position obtained by rotating the driven roller 53 90 degrees, or approximately 90 degrees, from the recording position KP, with the rotation center of the drive roller 52 as the pivot point. The conveyor belt unit 50 is in a vertical position at the retracted position TP.

[0056] When the transport belt 51 is in the retracted position TP, the head cleaning mechanism 70 moves to a position facing the printing unit 18. When the transport belt 51 is in the retracted position TP, the head cleaning mechanism 70 enters a second state. The cap 71 faces the nozzle surface of the inkjet head 19.

[0057] The cap 71 covers the nozzles located on the nozzle surface of the inkjet head 19. The cap 71 covers the nozzles by contacting the nozzle surface from the -Z direction of the inkjet head 19. The cap 71 suppresses the drying of ink inside the inkjet head 19.

[0058] The cap 71 receives the ink ejected from the nozzles of the inkjet head 19. When the cap 71 covers the nozzle surface, the printer 1 can perform flushing, which involves ejecting a predetermined amount of ink. Flushing is a head cleaning process that cleans the inkjet head 19.

[0059] The first support member 72 and the second support member 73 movably support the cap 71. The first support member 72 and the second support member 73 move the cap 71 in the +Z direction and the -Z direction. The first support member 72 and the second support member 73 move the cap 71 in the +Z direction to bring the cap 71 into contact with the nozzle surface of the inkjet head 19. The first support member 72 and the second support member 73 may have a link mechanism or a cam mechanism (not shown). The first support member 72 and the second support member 73 may move the cap 71 using a link mechanism or a cam mechanism.

[0060] The head cleaning mechanism 70 may have a cleaning blade (not shown). The cleaning blade comes into contact with the nozzle surface of the inkjet head 19 when the head cleaning mechanism 70 is in a second state. The cleaning blade cleans the nozzle surface by wiping it. The action of the cleaning blade wiping the nozzle surface is an example of head cleaning.

[0061] When the conveyor belt 51 is in the retracted position TP, the belt cleaning mechanism 90 faces the conveyor belt 51. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 moves from the standby position to the cleaning position in the +Y direction by the sliding movement mechanism 98. When the belt cleaning mechanism 90 moves to the cleaning position, the cleaning cloth C comes into contact with the conveying surface 51a of the conveyor belt 51. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 performs belt cleaning on the conveying surface 51a by bringing the cleaning cloth C into contact with the conveying surface 51a. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 can remove ink adhering to the conveying surface 51a of the conveyor belt 51. The cleaning position corresponds to an example of a contact position. Belt cleaning corresponds to an example of a cleaning operation.

[0062] The cleaning cloth C comes into contact with the conveying surface 51a of the rotating conveyor belt 51. When the conveyor belt 51 is in the retracted position TP, it is rotated by a belt drive mechanism (not shown). The cleaning cloth C comes into contact with the conveying surface 51a of the rotating conveyor belt 51 and performs belt cleaning. The cleaning cloth C is made of a cloth such as woven fabric. The cleaning cloth C is moved by a cleaning cloth conveying mechanism (not shown). When the cleaning cloth C is in contact with the conveying surface 51a, it is moved by the cleaning cloth conveying mechanism.

[0063] After performing belt cleaning on the conveying surface 51a, the belt cleaning mechanism 90 is moved to a standby position in the -Y direction by the sliding movement mechanism 98. When the belt cleaning mechanism 90 is moved to the standby position, the cleaning cloth C does not come into contact with the conveying surface 51a of the conveying belt 51. The standby position corresponds to an example of a non-contact position.

[0064] Figure 4 shows the schematic configuration of the conveyor belt unit 50. Figure 4 shows the configuration of the conveyor belt unit 50 at recording position KP. The printing unit 18 is positioned in the +Z direction of the conveyor belt 51 and faces the conveying surface 51a of the conveyor belt 51. The conveyor belt unit 50 includes a drive roller 52, a driven roller 53, a belt support member 55, and a charging roller 81. The drive roller 52 and the driven roller 53 tension the conveyor belt 51.

[0065] The drive roller 52 transmits driving force to the conveyor belt 51. The drive roller 52 is connected to a belt drive mechanism (not shown). The drive roller 52 transmits the driving force generated by the belt drive mechanism to the conveyor belt 51. The conveyor belt 51 rotates in a predetermined direction due to the transmitted driving force. The drive roller 52 has a drive roller shaft 52a. The drive roller shaft 52a is made of a conductive material. For example, the drive roller shaft 52a is made of a metal shaft such as iron. The drive roller shaft 52a is grounded.

[0066] The driven roller 53 wraps around the conveyor belt 51. The driven roller 53 rotates in response to the rotation of the conveyor belt 51. The driven roller 53 moves in the -Z and -Y directions, with the rotation center of the drive roller 52 as its pivot point. As the driven roller 53 moves, the conveyor belt 51 moves from the recording position KP to the retracted position TP.

[0067] The belt support member 55 supports the conveyor belt 51. The belt support member 55 supports the conveyor belt 51 from the inside of the conveyor belt 51 which is stretched by the drive roller 52 and the driven roller 53. The belt support member 55 has a first belt support member 55a and a second belt support member 55b.

[0068] The first belt support member 55a supports the conveyor belt 51 at a position facing the printing unit 18. When the conveyor belt 51 is at the recording position KP, the first belt support member 55a faces the printing unit 18 via the conveyor belt 51. The first belt support member 55a supports the conveyor belt 51 on which the printing medium M is electrostatically attracted.

[0069] The second belt support member 55b supports the conveyor belt 51 at a position opposite the belt cleaning mechanism 90. When the conveyor belt 51 is in the retracted position TP, the second belt support member 55b faces the cleaning cloth C that contacts the conveyor belt 51 via the conveyor belt 51.

[0070] The charging roller 81 charges the conveyor belt 51. The charging roller 81 contacts the conveying surface 51a of the conveyor belt 51 and charges the conveying surface 51a. The charging roller 81 rotates in accordance with the rotation of the conveyor belt 51. The charging roller 81 is composed of a charging roller shaft 81a and a rubber layer 81b. The charging roller 81 may have a bearing portion (not shown). The charging roller 81 corresponds to an example of a charging means. The charging roller 81 is a roller member, but is not limited to this. A conductive blade or a conductive brush may be used instead of a roller member.

[0071] The charging roller shaft 81a is made of a conductive material such as metal. A voltage is applied to the charging roller shaft 81a by the power supply unit 85. The end of the charging roller shaft 81a is in contact with a leaf spring (not shown) as an example. The leaf spring is connected to the power supply unit 85. The leaf spring is in contact with the end of the charging roller shaft 81a and applies a voltage. The voltage may also be applied to the charging roller shaft 81a via a bearing. The bearing is made of a conductive resin or a conductive bearing such as a sintered bearing. The conveyor belt 51 is charged by the charging roller 81, causing the printing medium M to be electrostatically attracted to the conveyor surface 51a. The conveyor belt 51 rotates to convey the printing medium M to a position facing the inkjet head 19. The charging roller 81 shown in Figure 4 is arranged in the conveyor belt unit 50, but is not limited thereto. The charging roller 81 may be constructed separately from the conveyor belt unit 50.

[0072] The power supply unit 85 applies voltage to the charging roller 81. The power supply unit 85 is electrically connected to the charging roller shaft 81a. The power supply unit 85 may be configured within the power supply unit that supplies power to each unit of the printer 1, or it may be provided separately from the power supply unit. The power supply unit 85 includes a current detection unit 87.

[0073] The current detection unit 87 detects the charging current when the charging roller 81 charges the conveyor belt 51. The charging current corresponds to an example of charging conditions. The current detection unit 87 detects the charging current before starting printing based on a print job. The current detection unit 87 may also detect the charging current after finishing printing based on a print job. The current detection unit 87 detects the charging current while the rotating conveyor belt 51 is charged by the charging roller 81. The current detection unit 87 obtains the maximum charging current or the average charging current when the conveyor belt 51 has been rotated a predetermined number of times as the charging current. The current detection unit 87 may also measure the charging current after a jam occurs. The current detection unit 87 corresponds to an example of a detection unit.

[0074] Figure 5 shows the conveyor belt unit 50 and the belt cleaning mechanism 90. Figure 5 shows the relationship between the conveyor belt unit 50 and the belt cleaning mechanism 90 when belt cleaning is performed. Figure 5 shows the state in which the belt cleaning mechanism 90 is positioned in the cleaning position by the sliding movement mechanism 98. The conveyor belt 51 shown in Figure 5 is in the retracted position TP. The conveyor belt 51 is rotatable in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 5. When the belt cleaning mechanism 90 performs belt cleaning of the conveyor belt 51, the conveyor belt 51 rotates in the direction of the arrow at a predetermined belt drive speed. The cleaning cloth C of the belt cleaning mechanism 90 is in contact with the conveying surface 51a of the conveyor belt 51.

[0075] The belt cleaning mechanism 90 shown in Figure 5 comprises a housing 91, a roll shaft 92, a winding roller 93, a plurality of pulleys 94, a pressing member 95, a spring 96, and a plurality of rollers 97. A cleaning roll CR is mounted on the belt cleaning mechanism 90. A cleaning roll CR is a roll of cleaning cloth C wound into a roll shape.

[0076] The housing 91 supports a roll shaft 92, a winding roller 93, multiple pulleys 94, a pressing member 95, a spring 96, and multiple rollers 97. The housing 91 moves in the +Y direction or the -Y direction by a sliding movement mechanism 98. The housing 91 is movable to a cleaning position or a standby position.

[0077] The roll shaft 92 rotatably supports the cleaning roll CR. The roll shaft 92 feeds the cleaning cloth C from the supported cleaning roll CR toward the winding roller 93. The roll shaft 92 may be rotationally driven by a drive mechanism (not shown). The roll shaft 92 may also rotate in a driven manner when the cleaning cloth C is fed out.

[0078] The winding roller 93 winds up the cleaning cloth C. The winding roller 93 winds up the cleaning cloth C that has wiped the conveyor belt 51. The winding roller 93 rotates in the winding direction of the cleaning cloth C by a drive mechanism (not shown). The winding roller 93 is configured to allow the wound-up cleaning cloth C to be removed.

[0079] Multiple pulleys 94 guide the cleaning cloth C unwound from the cleaning roll CR to the winding roller 93. The pulleys 94 may be rotationally driven by a drive mechanism (not shown) or they may be driven rotationally. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 shown in Figure 5 has a first pulley 94a, a second pulley 94b, a third pulley 94c, and a fourth pulley 94d. The number of pulleys 94 is not limited to four. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 may have two or more pulleys 94.

[0080] The first pulley 94a winds the cleaning cloth C, which has been unwound from the cleaning roll CR, onto it. The first pulley 94a guides the cleaning cloth C toward the conveyor belt 51 in the +Y direction.

[0081] The second pulley 94b wraps around the cleaning cloth C guided by the first pulley 94a. The second pulley 94b is positioned opposite the conveyor belt 51. The second pulley 94b contacts the conveyor belt 51 via the cleaning cloth C. The second pulley 94b brings the cleaning cloth C into contact with the conveyor belt 51. The cleaning cloth C, in contact with the conveyor belt 51, performs belt cleaning by wiping the conveyor belt 51.

[0082] The third pulley 94c guides the cleaning cloth C, which has been wiped from the conveyor belt 51 by the second pulley 94b. The third pulley 94c guides the cleaning cloth C in the -Y direction. The third pulley 94c applies tension to the cleaning cloth C.

[0083] The fourth pulley 94d guides the cleaning cloth C, which is guided by the third pulley 94c, toward the winding roller 93. The fourth pulley 94d guides the cleaning cloth C in the -Y direction. The fourth pulley 94d applies tension to the cleaning cloth C.

[0084] The pressing member 95 presses against the second pulley 94b. The pressing member 95 contacts the second pulley 94b and presses it toward the conveyor belt 51. The second pulley 94b, pressed by the pressing member 95, presses the cleaning cloth C against the conveyor belt 51.

[0085] The spring 96 applies a pressing force to the pressing member 95. By applying a pressing force to the pressing member 95, the spring 96 causes the pressing member 95 to press against the second pulley 94b. The pressing force applied by the spring 96 is set as appropriate. The belt cleaning mechanism 90 shown in Figure 5 is provided with a spring 96, but is not limited to this. As long as the configuration applies a pressing force to the pressing member 95, the form is not limited.

[0086] Roller 97 slides the belt cleaning mechanism 90 in the +Y direction or the -Y direction. When the belt cleaning mechanism 90 is driven by force transmitted by the sliding mechanism 98, Roller 97 slides the belt cleaning mechanism 90. Roller 97 slides the belt cleaning mechanism 90 by rotating on a rail member (not shown).

[0087] Figure 6 shows the block configuration of the printing system 100. The printing system 100 consists of a printer 1 and a print control device 150. The printer 1 is connected to the print control device 150 in a communication manner.

[0088] The printer 1 comprises a scanner unit 3, a transport mechanism 15, a printing unit 18, a belt unit movement mechanism 60, a belt cleaning mechanism 90, a slide movement mechanism 98, a control unit 110, and a communication interface 120. The printer 1 may also be provided with a current detection unit 87. The control unit 110 controls the operation of the scanner unit 3, the transport mechanism 15, the printing unit 18, the belt unit movement mechanism 60, the belt cleaning mechanism 90, the slide movement mechanism 98, the current detection unit 87, and the communication interface 120.

[0089] The scanner unit 3 reads the document based on the control of the control unit 110. The scanner unit 3 generates scan data by reading the document. The scanner unit 3 transmits the generated scan data to the control unit 110. The control unit 110 generates a print job based on the received scan data. The print job includes print data, various commands, and various print conditions corresponding to one print medium M.

[0090] The conveying mechanism 15 conveys the printing medium M along the conveying path TR based on the control of the control unit 110. The conveying mechanism 15 appropriately drives multiple roller pairs, the conveying belt 51, etc., based on the control of the control unit 110. The conveying belt 51, which is part of the conveying mechanism 15, rotates at a predetermined belt drive speed based on the control of the control unit 110. The conveying belt 51 rotates based on the control of the control unit 110 when the belt cleaning mechanism 90 performs belt cleaning on the conveying surface 51a of the conveying belt 51. The conveying belt 51's belt drive speed, belt drive time, etc., are controlled by the control unit 110.

[0091] The transport mechanism 15 includes a first sensor Sa and a second sensor Sb. The first sensor Sa and the second sensor Sb function as paper jam detection units. The first sensor Sa and the second sensor Sb detect jams in the printing medium M based on the detection timing of the printing medium M. The first sensor Sa and the second sensor Sb detect jams in the printing medium M by detecting the printing medium M being transported along the transport path TR. When the first sensor Sa and the second sensor Sb detect a jam, they transmit a jam detection signal to the control unit 110. When the first sensor Sa and the second sensor Sb detect a jam, the transport mechanism 15 stops transporting the printing medium M.

[0092] The printing unit 18 prints on the printing medium M based on the control of the control unit 110. The printing unit 18 prints based on the print job. The printing unit 18 prints one sheet of printing medium M based on the print data included in the print job. A print job may have multiple print data. The inkjet head 19 ejects ink onto the printing medium M based on the control of the control unit 110. The printing unit 18 performs printing by ejecting ink onto the printing medium M from the inkjet head 19.

[0093] The belt unit moving mechanism 60 rotates the conveyor belt unit 50 based on the control of the control unit 110. By rotating the conveyor belt unit 50, the belt unit moving mechanism 60 moves the conveyor belt 51 to the recording position KP or the retracted position TP.

[0094] The belt cleaning mechanism 90 performs belt cleaning on the conveyor belt 51 based on the control of the control unit 110. Belt cleaning involves bringing a cleaning cloth C into contact with the conveyor surface 51a and wiping the conveyor surface 51a. When the belt cleaning mechanism 90 performs belt cleaning, the control unit 110 rotates the conveyor belt 51 at a predetermined belt drive speed. When the belt cleaning mechanism 90 performs belt cleaning, belt cleaning conditions such as the cleaning cloth movement speed are controlled by the control unit 110.

[0095] The sliding mechanism 98 moves the belt cleaning mechanism 90 in the +Y direction or the -Y direction based on the control of the control unit 110. The sliding mechanism 98 moves the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to the cleaning position or the standby position.

[0096] The current detection unit 87 detects the charging current based on the control of the control unit 110. The current detection unit 87 transmits the detected charging current to the control unit 110. The control unit 110 determines the transport surface state based on the received charging current. The transport surface state corresponds to an example of the surface state.

[0097] The control unit 110 is a controller that controls the operation of the printer 1. The control unit 110 is, for example, a processor having a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 110 may consist of one or more processors. The control unit 110 shown in Figure 6 includes a storage unit 112. The storage unit 112 may be provided separately from the control unit 110. By executing a control program, the control unit 110 functions as a print control unit 114 and a data processing unit 116. The control unit 110 corresponds to an example of a control unit.

[0098] The storage unit 112 stores various data, tables, programs, etc. The storage unit 112 stores print jobs based on read data generated by the scanner unit 3. The storage unit 112 stores print jobs received via the communication interface 120. The storage unit 112 stores various data generated by the data processing unit 116. The storage unit 112 stores control programs that operate in the control unit 110. The storage unit 112 is composed of ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The storage unit 112 may also function as a work area for the control unit 110. The storage unit 112 corresponds to an example of a storage unit.

[0099] The memory unit 112 stores the control table 112a. The control table 112a is used to determine the belt cleaning conditions for belt cleaning performed by the belt cleaning mechanism 90. The control table 112a associates comparison values ​​with condition values ​​included in the belt cleaning conditions. The comparison values ​​correspond to the conveying surface state. The comparison values ​​include thresholds. The condition values ​​included in the belt cleaning conditions are belt cleaning time, belt drive speed, etc. Details of the control table 112a will be described later.

[0100] The print control unit 114 controls the operation of various mechanisms and units. The print control unit 114 controls the scanner unit 3, transport mechanism 15, print unit 18, belt unit moving mechanism 60, belt cleaning mechanism 90, slide moving mechanism 98, and communication interface 120. The print control unit 114 may also control the current detection unit 87.

[0101] The print control unit 114 controls the transport mechanism 15 and the print unit 18 to perform printing on the print medium M. The print control unit 114 receives a print request entered into the control panel 5, etc. Based on the received print request, the print control unit 114 operates the transport mechanism 15 and the print unit 18. The print control unit 114 performs printing on the print medium M by operating the transport mechanism 15 and the print unit 18.

[0102] The print control unit 114 receives a jam detection signal from the transport mechanism 15. When the print control unit 114 receives a jam detection signal, it stops the transport of the printing medium M by the transport mechanism 15. When the print control unit 114 receives a jam release signal from the control panel 5 or the like, it causes each unit to perform post-processing. The jam release signal is generated when the user makes a predetermined operation input to the control panel 5 or the like. The post-processing performed includes head cleaning by the head cleaning mechanism 70 and belt cleaning by the belt cleaning mechanism 90.

[0103] The printing control unit 114 controls the belt unit moving mechanism 60 to move the conveyor belt 51 to the recording position KP or the retracted position TP. The printing control unit 114 controls the slide moving mechanism 98 to slide the belt cleaning mechanism 90 from the standby position to the cleaning position.

[0104] The printing control unit 114 causes the conveyor belt 51 to perform belt cleaning by controlling the belt cleaning mechanism 90. When the conveyor belt unit 50 is in the retracted position TP, the printing control unit 114 rotates the conveyor belt 51 at a predetermined belt drive speed. When the conveyor belt unit 50 is in the retracted position TP, the printing control unit 114 brings the cleaning cloth C into contact with the conveyor belt 51. By bringing the cleaning cloth C into contact with the rotating conveyor belt 51, the printing control unit 114 causes the conveyor belt 51 to perform belt cleaning. The printing control unit 114 causes the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning according to the belt cleaning conditions determined by the data processing unit 116. The printing control unit 114 corresponds to an example of a control unit.

[0105] The data processing unit 116 determines the transport surface condition of the transport belt 51. The data processing unit 116 receives a print job and determines the transport surface condition based on the print job. The data processing unit 116 acquires the print data, print conditions, etc. included in the print job. The print data is data corresponding to one print medium M. The print conditions are the size of the print medium M, single-sided / double-sided printing, the type of ink to be ejected, etc. The data processing unit 116 may use the print data to calculate the number of dots printed on the print medium M, the amount of ink ejected onto the print medium M, the print duty cycle value, the total amount of ink ejected, etc. The data processing unit 116 determines the transport surface condition based on the print data and print conditions. The data processing unit 116 can accurately determine the amount of ink or other contamination on the transport surface 51a. The print data and print conditions correspond to an example of the recording conditions. The data processing unit 116 corresponds to an example of the discrimination unit.

[0106] The data processing unit 116 determines the transport surface condition by calculating the print duty cycle value, as an example. The print duty cycle value is the number of dots generated divided by the maximum number of dots. The number of dots generated is the number of dots printed per unit area based on the print data. The maximum number of dots is the maximum number of dots that can be printed per unit area by the print unit 18. The print duty cycle value is calculated using the following formula. Print duty cycle (%) = Number of dots generated / Maximum number of dots × 100 The data processing unit 116 determines the transport surface state when it receives a jam detection signal from the transport mechanism 15. The print duty cycle value is calculated based on the print data corresponding to the print medium M that is scheduled to be printed at the time the jam occurs. The data processing unit 116 determines the transport surface state by comparing the calculated print duty cycle value with the control table 112a. The print duty cycle value corresponds to an example of a print duty cycle.

[0107] The data processing unit 116 may determine the transport surface state based on the charging current detected by the current detection unit 87. The data processing unit 116 receives the charging current detected by the current detection unit 87. The data processing unit 116 determines the transport surface state by comparing the received charging current with the control table 112a. If the transport surface 51a becomes soiled with ink, paper dust, etc., the charging current increases. The data processing unit 116 can determine the transport surface state by comparing the detected charging current with the control table 112a.

[0108] The data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions according to the determined transport surface condition. The data processing unit 116 varies the belt cleaning conditions according to the transport surface condition. By varying the belt cleaning conditions, the data processing unit 116 varies the cleaning intensity. The data processing unit 116 instructs the print control unit 114 to perform belt cleaning according to the determined belt cleaning conditions. The print control unit 114 instructs the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning according to the determined belt cleaning conditions. The print control unit 114 instructs the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning according to the transport surface condition of the transport belt 51.

[0109] The communication interface 120 transmits or receives various data and programs. The communication interface 120 communicates with external devices such as the print control device 150. The communication interface 120 connects to an external device via wired or wireless connection according to a predetermined communication protocol. The communication interface 120 receives print jobs from the print control device 150. The communication interface 120 transmits the print results of the print jobs to the print control device 150.

[0110] The print control device 150 is connected to the communication interface 120. The print control device 150 is a computer on which the printer driver runs. The print control device 150 generates a print job. The print control device 150 sends the generated print job to the communication interface 120. The communication interface 120 sends the received print job to the control unit 110.

[0111] The printer 1, which prints on a printing medium M, comprises a printing unit 18 that performs printing by ejecting ink onto the printing medium M, a transport belt 51 that transports the printing medium M being printed on by the printing unit 18, a belt cleaning mechanism 90 that can move to a cleaning position in contact with the transport belt 51 or to a standby position not in contact with the transport belt 51, and performs belt cleaning on the transport belt 51 when in the cleaning position, a data processing unit 116 that determines the transport surface state of the transport belt 51, and a printing control unit 114 that causes the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning according to the transport surface state of the transport belt 51 determined by the data processing unit 116. The printer 1 can perform belt cleaning corresponding to the degree of contamination on the conveying surface 51a of the conveying belt 51.

[0112] The data processing unit 116 acquires the print data and print conditions for printing performed by the printing unit 18, and determines the transport surface condition based on the acquired print data and print conditions. Printer 1 can accurately determine the degree of contamination on the transport surface 51a of the transport belt 51.

[0113] Figure 7 shows a flowchart of the belt cleaning process performed in printer 1. Figure 7 shows a belt cleaning control method performed by printer 1. The belt cleaning control method corresponds to an example of a control method. Belt cleaning is performed as a post-processing step after receiving a jam release signal. Belt cleaning may be performed before or after printing a print job. Belt cleaning is performed after the transport belt 51 has moved to the retracted position TP.

[0114] In step S101, the control unit 110 brings the belt cleaning mechanism 90 into contact with the conveyor belt 51. The control unit 110 controls the sliding mechanism 98 to move the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to the cleaning position. When the belt cleaning mechanism 90 moves to the cleaning position, the cleaning cloth C comes into contact with the conveyor surface 51a of the conveyor belt 51.

[0115] After the control unit 110 brings the belt cleaning mechanism 90 into contact with the conveyor belt 51, in step S103, it starts driving the conveyor belt 51 and the cleaning cloth C. The printing control unit 114 rotates the conveyor belt 51 in a predetermined direction. After rotating the conveyor belt 51, the printing control unit 114 transports the cleaning cloth C at a predetermined cleaning cloth transport speed. The cleaning cloth C does not need to be transported. The cleaning cloth C may wipe the transport surface 51a of the conveyor belt 51 while stationary.

[0116] In step S105, the control unit 110 drives the conveyor belt 51 and the cleaning cloth C for a predetermined time. The control unit 110 causes the conveyor belt 51 and the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning for the predetermined time. The print control unit 114 rotates the conveyor belt 51 at a predetermined belt drive speed. When the print control unit 114 transports the cleaning cloth C, it transports it at a predetermined cleaning cloth transport speed. The belt cleaning time for performing belt cleaning, the belt drive speed of the conveyor belt 51, and the amount of cleaning cloth C transported are included in the belt cleaning conditions. The belt cleaning time, belt drive speed, and amount of cleaning cloth transported are adjusted according to the transport surface condition determined by the data processing unit 116. The print control unit 114 causes the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning according to the transport surface condition.

[0117] After the control unit 110 has performed belt cleaning for a predetermined time, in step S107, it stops the conveyor belt 51 and the cleaning cloth C. The print control unit 114 stops the rotation of the conveyor belt 51. If the print control unit 114 was conveying the cleaning cloth C, it stops the conveyance of the cleaning cloth C.

[0118] After stopping the conveyor belt 51 and the cleaning cloth C, the control unit 110 moves the belt cleaning mechanism 90 away from the conveyor belt 51 in step S109. The print control unit 114 controls the slide movement mechanism 98 to move the belt cleaning mechanism 90 away from the conveyor belt 51. The print control unit 114 moves the belt cleaning mechanism 90 from the cleaning position to the standby position. The print control unit 114 moves the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to the standby position and ends the belt cleaning.

[0119] The belt cleaning control method for printer 1, which prints on a printing medium M, involves transporting the printing medium M on a transport belt 51, printing by ejecting ink onto the printing medium M on the transport belt 51, determining the transport surface condition of the transport belt 51, moving the belt cleaning mechanism 90 from a standby position that does not contact the transport belt 51 to a cleaning position that contacts the transport belt 51, and causing the belt cleaning mechanism 90 in contact with the transport belt 51 to perform belt cleaning according to the transport surface condition. The printer 1 can perform belt cleaning according to the degree of contamination on the conveying surface 51a of the conveying belt 51.

[0120] First Embodiment In the first embodiment, the data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions using the print duty cycle value. The storage unit 112 stores the control table 112a shown in Figure 8. The data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions using the control table 112a shown in Figure 8. The print control unit 114 causes the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning according to the determined belt cleaning conditions.

[0121] Figure 8 shows an example of the control table 112a. Figure 8 relates the print duty cycle range and the belt cleaning time. The print duty cycle range included in the control table 112a is a comparison value that is compared with the print duty cycle value calculated by the data processing unit 116. The belt cleaning time is included in the belt cleaning conditions. The belt cleaning time corresponds to an example of the execution time.

[0122] The print duty cycle range included in the control table 112a is divided into four ranges by thresholds. The print duty cycle range is divided into 20% or less, 21% to 40%, 41% to 60%, and 61% or more by thresholds. The print duty cycle range values ​​of 20%, 40%, and 60% are the thresholds, respectively. The print duty cycle range values ​​of 20%, 40%, and 60% are the first threshold, second threshold, and third threshold, respectively. The print duty cycle range values ​​of 21%, 41%, and 61% shown in Figure 8 indicate that they are greater than the first threshold, second threshold, and third threshold, respectively. The four divisions correspond to the transport surface state of the transport belt 51. The data processing unit 116 can determine the transport surface state by comparing the print duty value calculated based on the print data included in the print job with the thresholds or print duty cycle range in the control table 112a. The print duty cycle range is not limited to four divisions. The number of divisions in the print duty cycle range is set as appropriate.

[0123] The multiple belt cleaning times included in the control table 112a correspond to four divided print duty cycle ranges. The belt cleaning times of 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, and 90 seconds are the first, second, third, and fourth belt cleaning times, respectively. The data processing unit 116 obtains the belt cleaning time corresponding to the print duty value calculated based on the print data. The data processing unit 116 generates belt cleaning conditions that include the obtained belt cleaning time.

[0124] Figure 9 shows a flowchart for determining the belt cleaning conditions. Figure 9 shows the flow for determining the belt cleaning conditions performed by the control unit 110. The control unit 110 determines the belt cleaning conditions using the control table 112a shown in Figure 8. The control unit 110 determines the belt cleaning conditions by generating the belt cleaning conditions.

[0125] In step S201, the control unit 110 receives a jam signal. The print control unit 114 receives a jam signal from the transport mechanism 15. The print control unit 114 stops the transport mechanism 15.

[0126] When the control unit 110 receives a jam signal, it acquires the print data and the control table 112a in step S203. The data processing unit 116 acquires the print data and the control table 112a stored in the storage unit 112. The print data is included in the print job. The data processing unit 116 may acquire the print data and the control table 112a in advance before receiving the jam signal.

[0127] In step S205, the control unit 110 calculates the print duty cycle. The data processing unit 116 calculates the print duty cycle based on the print data. The calculated print duty cycle is based on the print data printed on the printing medium M where the jam occurred. The print duty cycle may also be calculated based on the print data corresponding to the printing medium M that has been printed from the start of printing until the jam occurred.

[0128] After the control unit 110 calculates the print duty cycle, in step S207 it compares the calculated print duty cycle with the control table 112a. The data processing unit 116 compares the calculated print duty cycle with the print duty cycle range included in the control table 112a. By comparing the calculated print duty cycle with the print duty cycle range included in the control table 112a, the data processing unit 116 determines the transport surface condition. The flow by which the data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning time will be described later.

[0129] In step S209, the control unit 110 determines the belt cleaning conditions. The data processing unit 116 compares the calculated print duty cycle value with the control table 112a and obtains the belt cleaning time. The belt cleaning time is included in the belt cleaning conditions. The data processing unit 116 generates belt cleaning conditions including the obtained belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 transmits the belt cleaning conditions including the belt cleaning time to the print control unit 114. The print control unit 114 causes the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform the belt cleaning according to the received belt cleaning conditions.

[0130] Figure 10 shows a flowchart for determining the belt cleaning conditions. Figure 10 shows details of step S207 in Figure 9. Figure 10 shows a flow for obtaining the belt cleaning time using each threshold included in the control table 112a.

[0131] When the control unit 110 calculates the print duty cycle, in step S301, it compares the calculated print duty cycle with a first threshold included in the control table 112a. In the case of the control table 112a shown in Figure 8, the first threshold is 20%. The data processing unit 116 evaluates whether the calculated print duty cycle is greater than the first threshold. If the calculated print duty cycle is less than or equal to the first threshold, the data processing unit 116 determines that the calculated print duty cycle is within the print duty cycle range of 0 to 20%. The data processing unit 116 determines that the transport surface 51a is in the first transport surface state. The first transport surface state is a state with little contamination from ink, etc. If the calculated print duty cycle is less than or equal to the first threshold, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S303 (step S301; NO). If the calculated print duty cycle is greater than the first threshold, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S305 (step S301; YES). The calculated print duty cycle value is an example of printing conditions. The calculated print duty cycle value corresponds to an example of print duty. The first threshold corresponds to an example of a print duty threshold. The first transport surface condition corresponds to an example of a first surface condition.

[0132] In step S303, the control unit 110 acquires the first belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 acquires the first belt cleaning time included in the control table 112a. In the case of the control table 112a shown in Figure 8, the first belt cleaning time is 20 seconds. The data processing unit 116 determines that the belt cleaning time when performing belt cleaning on the conveying surface 51a in the first conveying surface state is the first belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 generates a first belt cleaning condition that includes the acquired first belt cleaning time. The first belt cleaning time corresponds to an example of the first time. The first belt cleaning condition corresponds to an example of the first condition.

[0133] In step S305, the control unit 110 compares the calculated print duty cycle value with a second threshold included in the control table 112a. In the case of the control table 112a shown in Figure 8, the second threshold is 40%. The data processing unit 116 evaluates whether the calculated print duty cycle value is greater than the second threshold. If the calculated print duty cycle value is less than or equal to the second threshold, the data processing unit 116 determines that the calculated print duty cycle value is within the print duty cycle range of 21-40%. The data processing unit 116 determines that the transport surface 51a is in the second transport surface state. The second transport surface state is a state in which there is more ink contamination than in the first transport surface state. If the calculated print duty cycle value is less than or equal to the second threshold, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S307 (step S305; NO). If the calculated print duty cycle value is greater than the second threshold, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S309 (step S305; YES). The second threshold corresponds to an example of the print duty cycle threshold. The second transport surface state corresponds to an example of the second surface state.

[0134] In step S307, the control unit 110 obtains the second belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 obtains the second belt cleaning time included in the control table 112a. In the case of the control table 112a shown in Figure 8, the second belt cleaning time is 30 seconds. The second belt cleaning time is different from the first belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 determines that the belt cleaning time when performing belt cleaning on the conveyor surface 51a in the second conveyor surface state is the second belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 generates a second belt cleaning condition that includes the obtained second belt cleaning time. The generated second belt cleaning condition is different from the first belt cleaning condition. The generated second belt cleaning condition is longer than the first belt cleaning condition. The second belt cleaning time corresponds to an example of the second time. The second belt cleaning condition corresponds to an example of the second condition.

[0135] In step S309, the control unit 110 compares the calculated print duty cycle value with a third threshold included in the control table 112a. In the case of the control table 112a shown in Figure 8, the third threshold is 60%. The data processing unit 116 evaluates whether the calculated print duty cycle value is greater than the third threshold. If the calculated print duty cycle value is less than or equal to the third threshold, the data processing unit 116 determines that the calculated print duty cycle value is within the print duty cycle range of 41-60%. The data processing unit 116 determines that the transport surface 51a is in the third transport surface state. The third transport surface state is a state in which there is more ink contamination than in the first transport surface state and the second transport surface state. If the calculated print duty cycle value is greater than the third threshold, the data processing unit 116 determines that the calculated print duty cycle value is within the print duty cycle range of 61%. The data processing unit 116 determines that the transport surface 51a is in the fourth transport surface state. The fourth transport surface state is a state in which there is more ink or other contamination than the first, second, and third transport surface states. When the calculated print duty value is less than or equal to the third threshold, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S311 (step S309; ​​NO). When the calculated print duty value is greater than the third threshold, the control unit 110 proceeds to step S313 (step S309; ​​YES). The third threshold corresponds to an example of a print duty threshold.

[0136] In step S311, the control unit 110 acquires the third belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 acquires the third belt cleaning time included in the control table 112a. In the case of the control table 112a shown in Figure 8, the third belt cleaning time is 45 seconds. The third belt cleaning time is different from the first belt cleaning time and the second belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 determines that the belt cleaning time when performing belt cleaning on the conveying surface 51a in the third conveying surface state is the third belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 generates a third belt cleaning condition that includes the acquired third belt cleaning time. The generated third belt cleaning condition is different from the first belt cleaning condition and the second belt cleaning condition.

[0137] In step S313, the control unit 110 acquires the fourth belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 acquires the fourth belt cleaning time included in the control table 112a. In the case of the control table 112a shown in Figure 8, the fourth belt cleaning time is 90 seconds. The fourth belt cleaning time is different from the first belt cleaning time, the second belt cleaning time, and the third belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 determines that the belt cleaning time when performing belt cleaning on the conveying surface 51a in the fourth conveying surface state is the fourth belt cleaning time. The data processing unit 116 generates a fourth belt cleaning condition that includes the acquired fourth belt cleaning time. The generated fourth belt cleaning condition is different from the first belt cleaning condition, the second belt cleaning condition, and the third belt cleaning condition.

[0138] The print data and print conditions are the print duty cycle values ​​when the print unit 18 prints on the print medium M, and the transport surface condition is determined by comparing the print duty cycle values ​​with a pre-stored threshold value. The print duty cycle corresponds to the amount of ink ejected by the print unit 18. The printer 1 can determine the degree of contamination of the transport belt 51 based on the amount of ink ejected. The printer 1 can accurately determine the belt cleaning conditions.

[0139] The data processing unit 116 determines that the transport surface state is the first transport surface state when the print duty cycle value is less than or equal to the first threshold, and determines that the transport surface state is the second transport surface state when the print duty cycle value is greater than the first threshold. The print control unit 114 determines that the transport surface state is the first transport surface state and performs belt cleaning under first belt cleaning conditions, and determines that the transport surface state is the second transport surface state and performs belt cleaning under second belt cleaning conditions which are different from the first belt cleaning conditions, thereby differentiating the belt cleaning. Printer 1 can change the belt cleaning conditions when performing belt cleaning depending on the condition of the transport surface. Printer 1 can perform belt cleaning according to the condition of the transport surface 51a.

[0140] The first belt cleaning conditions and the second belt cleaning conditions include the belt cleaning time. Printer 1 can adjust the belt cleaning conditions by changing the belt cleaning time.

[0141] The belt cleaning time included in the first belt cleaning condition is the first belt cleaning time, and the belt cleaning time included in the second belt cleaning condition is the second belt cleaning time, which is longer than the first belt cleaning time. Printer 1 increases the belt cleaning time when the transport surface 51a becomes heavily soiled. Printer 1 can reliably remove the soiled surface 51a.

[0142] Second Embodiment In the second embodiment, the data processing unit 116 determines belt cleaning conditions, including the belt drive speed, using the print duty cycle value. The storage unit 112 stores the control table 112a shown in Figure 11. The data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions using the control table 112a shown in Figure 11. The print control unit 114 causes the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning according to the determined belt cleaning conditions.

[0143] Figure 11 shows an example of the control table 112a. Figure 11 relates the print duty cycle range, belt drive speed, and belt cleaning time. The print duty cycle range included in the control table 112a corresponds to the print duty cycle value calculated by the data processing unit 116. The belt drive speed and belt cleaning time are included in the belt cleaning conditions. The belt drive speed corresponds to an example of the travel speed.

[0144] In the second embodiment, the control unit 110 determines the belt cleaning conditions according to the flowcharts shown in Figures 9 and 10, similar to the first embodiment. The determined belt cleaning conditions include the belt drive speed and the belt cleaning time. When the print control unit 114 initiates belt cleaning, it rotates the conveyor belt 51 at a predetermined belt drive speed.

[0145] The print duty cycle range included in the control table 112a is divided into four categories based on thresholds. The print duty cycle range is divided into four ranges: 20% or less, 21% to 40%, 41% to 60%, and 61% or more. The print duty cycle values ​​of 20%, 40%, and 60% are thresholds, respectively. The print duty cycle values ​​of 20%, 40%, and 60% are the first, second, and third thresholds, respectively. The print duty cycle values ​​of 21%, 41%, and 61% shown in Figure 11 indicate that they are greater than the first, second, and third thresholds, respectively. The four categories correspond to the transport surface state of the transport belt 51. The data processing unit 116 can determine the transport surface state by comparing the print duty cycle value calculated based on the print data with the thresholds and print duty cycle range in the control table 112a.

[0146] The multiple belt drive speeds included in the control table 112a correspond to four divided print duty cycle ranges. Belt drive speeds of 500 mm / s, 375 mm / s, 250 mm / s, and 125 mm / s are the first belt drive speed, second belt drive speed, third belt drive speed, and fourth belt drive speed, respectively. The data processing unit 116 generates belt cleaning conditions, including belt drive speeds corresponding to print duty values ​​calculated based on print data. The first belt drive speed corresponds to an example of the first travel speed. The second belt drive speed corresponds to an example of the second travel speed.

[0147] In the control table 112a shown in Figure 11, the belt drive speed decreases as the print duty cycle value increases. When the calculated print duty cycle value is less than or equal to the first threshold, the belt drive speed included in the belt cleaning condition is the first belt drive speed, which is 500 mm / s. When the calculated print duty cycle value is greater than the first threshold, the belt drive speed included in the belt cleaning condition is the second belt drive speed, which is 375 mm / s. The first belt drive speed corresponds to an example of the first speed. The second belt drive speed corresponds to an example of the second speed.

[0148] The multiple belt cleaning times included in the control table 112a correspond to four divided print duty cycle ranges. The belt cleaning times of 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 23 seconds, and 90 seconds are the first, second, third, and fourth belt cleaning times, respectively. The data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions, including the belt cleaning time corresponding to the print duty cycle value calculated based on the print data.

[0149] It is assumed that the calculated print duty cycle values ​​based on the print data are, for example, 15% and 35%. When the calculated print duty cycle value is 15%, the data processing unit 116 determines that the print duty cycle value is within the print duty cycle range of 0-20%. The data processing unit 116 determines that the transport surface 51a is in the first transport surface state. When the calculated print duty cycle value is 35%, the data processing unit 116 determines that the print duty cycle value is within the print duty cycle range of 21-40%. The data processing unit 116 determines that the transport surface 51a is in the second transport surface state. When the calculated print duty cycle value is 15%, the belt drive time and belt cleaning time included in the first belt cleaning condition are 500 mm / s and 5 seconds. When the calculated print duty cycle value is 35%, the belt drive time and belt cleaning time included in the second belt cleaning condition are 375 mm / s and 10 seconds.

[0150] The transport surface 51a in the first transport surface state is less soiled with ink, etc., than the transport surface 51a in the second transport surface state. When belt cleaning is performed on the transport surface 51a in the first transport surface state, the belt drive speed is faster than when belt cleaning is performed on the transport surface 51a in the second transport surface state. When belt cleaning is performed on the transport surface 51a in the first transport surface state, the belt cleaning time is shorter than when belt cleaning is performed on the transport surface 51a in the second transport surface state. When the transport surface 51a is less soiled, the print control unit 114 increases the belt drive speed and shortens the belt cleaning time compared to when the transport surface 51a is more soiled. By increasing the belt drive speed, the print control unit 114 can shorten the time it takes for the transport belt 51 to complete the required number of rotations. The print control unit 114 can perform belt cleaning on the transport belt 51 that completes the desired number of rotations with the minimum belt cleaning time.

[0151] The printing control unit 114 rotates the conveyor belt 51 when the belt cleaning mechanism 90 performs belt cleaning. The first belt cleaning condition and the second belt cleaning condition include the belt drive speed of the conveyor belt 51. Printer 1 can change the belt cleaning conditions according to the condition of the conveying surface by changing the belt drive speed.

[0152] The belt drive speed included in the first belt cleaning condition is the first belt drive speed, and the belt movement speed included in the second belt cleaning condition is the second belt drive speed, which is slower than the first belt drive speed. Printer 1 can perform belt cleaning in a short time when the transport surface 51a of the transport belt 51 is not very dirty.

[0153] Third Embodiment In the third embodiment, the data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions, including the cleaning cloth transport amount, using the print duty cycle value. The storage unit 112 stores the control table 112a shown in Figure 12. The data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions using the control table 112a shown in Figure 12. The print control unit 114 causes the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning according to the determined belt cleaning conditions. When the belt cleaning mechanism 90 performs belt cleaning on the transport belt 51, it transports the cleaning cloth C at a predetermined transport speed.

[0154] Figure 12 shows an example of the control table 112a. Figure 12 relates the print duty cycle range, belt cleaning time, and cleaning cloth transport volume. The print duty cycle range included in the control table 112a corresponds to the print duty cycle value calculated by the data processing unit 116. The belt cleaning time and cleaning cloth transport volume are included in the belt cleaning conditions. The cleaning cloth transport volume corresponds to an example of the transport volume.

[0155] In the third embodiment, the control unit 110 determines the belt cleaning conditions according to the flowcharts shown in Figures 9 and 10, similar to the first embodiment. The determined belt cleaning conditions include the belt cleaning time and the amount of cleaning cloth conveyed. When the printing control unit 114 initiates belt cleaning, it transports the cleaning cloth C at a predetermined transport speed.

[0156] The print duty cycle range included in the control table 112a is divided into four categories based on thresholds. The print duty cycle range is divided into 20% or less, 21% to 40%, 41% to 60%, and 61% or more. The print duty cycle values ​​of 20%, 40%, and 60% are thresholds, respectively. The print duty cycle values ​​of 20%, 40%, and 60% are the first threshold, second threshold, and third threshold, respectively. The four categories correspond to the transport surface state of the transport belt 51. The data processing unit 116 can determine the transport surface state by comparing the print duty cycle value calculated based on the print data with the thresholds in the control table 112a.

[0157] The multiple belt cleaning times included in the control table 112a correspond to four divided print duty cycle ranges. The belt cleaning times of 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, and 90 seconds are the first, second, third, and fourth belt cleaning times, respectively. The data processing unit 116 generates belt cleaning conditions, including belt cleaning times corresponding to the print duty values ​​calculated based on the print data.

[0158] The cleaning cloth transport amounts included in the control table 112a correspond to four divided print duty cycle ranges. The cleaning cloth transport amounts of 40 mm, 60 mm, 90 mm, and 180 mm are the first, second, third, and fourth cleaning cloth transport amounts, respectively. The data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions, including the cleaning cloth transport amount corresponding to the print duty cycle value calculated based on the print data.

[0159] It is assumed that the calculated print duty cycle values ​​based on the print data are, for example, 10% and 30%. When the print duty cycle value is 10%, the data processing unit 116 determines that the print duty cycle value is within the print duty cycle range of 0-20%. The data processing unit 116 determines that the transport surface 51a is in the first transport surface state. When the print duty cycle value is 30%, the data processing unit 116 determines that the print duty cycle value is within the print duty cycle range of 21-40%. The data processing unit 116 determines that the transport surface 51a is in the second transport surface state. When the calculated print duty cycle value is 10%, the belt cleaning time and cleaning cloth transport amount included in the first belt cleaning condition are 20 seconds and 40 mm, respectively. When the calculated print duty cycle value is 30%, the belt cleaning time and cleaning cloth transport amount included in the second belt cleaning condition are 30 seconds and 60 mm, respectively.

[0160] The data processing unit 116 obtained the amount of cleaning cloth to be transported included in the belt cleaning conditions from the amount of cleaning cloth transported included in the control table 112a, but is not limited to this. The data processing unit 116 may also calculate the amount of cleaning cloth to be transported from the transport speed of the cleaning cloth C and the belt cleaning time.

[0161] The belt cleaning mechanism 90 has a cleaning cloth C that comes into contact with the conveyor belt 51, and is capable of conveying the cleaning cloth C. The first belt cleaning conditions and the second belt cleaning conditions include the amount of cleaning cloth C conveyed. Printer 1 can adjust the cleaning intensity when performing belt cleaning by controlling the amount of cleaning cloth being transported.

[0162] Fourth Embodiment In the fourth embodiment, the data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions using the charging current. The storage unit 112 stores the control table 112a shown in Figure 13. The data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions using the control table 112a shown in Figure 13. The printing control unit 114 causes the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning according to the determined belt cleaning conditions.

[0163] Figure 13 shows an example of the control table 112a. Figure 13 correlates the charging current range with the belt cleaning time. The charging current range included in the control table 112a corresponds to the charging current detected by the current detection unit 87. The belt cleaning time is included in the belt cleaning conditions.

[0164] The charging current range included in the control table 112a is divided into four categories based on thresholds. The charging current range is divided into 0.70mA or less, 0.71mA to 0.80mA, 0.81mA to 0.90mA, and 0.91mA or more. The values ​​0.70mA, 0.80mA, and 0.90mA in the charging current range are thresholds, respectively. The values ​​0.70mA, 0.80mA, and 0.90mA in the charging current range are the first threshold, second threshold, and third threshold, respectively. The four categories correspond to the conveying surface state of the conveyor belt 51. The data processing unit 116 can determine the conveying surface state by comparing the print duty cycle value calculated based on the print data with the thresholds in the control table 112a.

[0165] The multiple belt cleaning times included in the control table 112a correspond to four divided charging current ranges. Belt cleaning times of 0 seconds, 20 seconds, 35 seconds, and 90 seconds are the first belt cleaning time, second belt cleaning time, third belt cleaning time, and fourth belt cleaning time, respectively. Belt cleaning of 0 seconds indicates that belt cleaning will not be performed. The data processing unit 116 determines the belt cleaning conditions, including the belt cleaning time corresponding to the charging current detected by the current detection unit 87.

[0166] In the fourth embodiment, the control unit 110 determines the belt cleaning conditions according to the flowchart shown in Figure 14. Figure 14 shows the flowchart for determining the belt cleaning conditions. Figure 14 shows the flow for determining the belt cleaning conditions using the control table 112a shown in Figure 13. The determined belt cleaning conditions include the belt cleaning time.

[0167] In step S401, the control unit 110 receives a print job. The print job includes a print request, print data, and print conditions. The print control unit 114 receives the print job from the print control device 150, etc. The print control unit 114 moves the transport belt unit 50 to the recording position KP using the belt unit moving mechanism 60.

[0168] When the control unit 110 receives a print job, it detects the charging current in step S403. The print control unit 114 rotates the conveyor belt 51. The print control unit 114 charges the rotating conveyor belt 51 with the charging roller 81. The current detection unit 87 detects the charging current when the charging roller 81 is charging the conveyor belt 51. When the current detection unit 87 detects the charging current, the print control unit 114 does not allow the conveying mechanism 15 to convey the printing medium M. The current detection unit 87 detects the charging current when the conveyor belt 51 that is not supporting the printing medium M is being charged. The data processing unit 116 receives the charging current detected by the current detection unit 87. The data processing unit 116 retrieves the control table 112a stored in the storage unit 112.

[0169] After detecting the charging current, the control unit 110 compares the detected charging current with the control table 112a shown in Figure 13 in step S405. The data processing unit 116 compares the detected charging current with the charging current range included in the control table 112a. By comparing the detected charging current with the charging current range included in the control table 112a, the data processing unit 116 determines the transport surface state.

[0170] In step S407, the control unit 110 determines the belt cleaning conditions. The data processing unit 116 compares the detected charging current with the control table 112a and determines the belt cleaning time. The belt cleaning time is included in the belt cleaning conditions. The data processing unit 116 transmits the belt cleaning conditions, including the belt cleaning time, to the print control unit 114. The print control unit 114 causes the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform the belt cleaning according to the received belt cleaning conditions. After the belt cleaning mechanism 90 has performed the belt cleaning, the print control unit 114 causes the transport mechanism 15 and the print unit 18 to perform printing based on the print data included in the print job.

[0171] The control unit 110, upon receiving a print job, has caused the belt cleaning mechanism 90 to perform belt cleaning, but is not limited to this. When the control unit 110 receives a print job, it causes the transport mechanism 15 and the printing unit 18 to perform printing. After printing is performed, the control unit 110 determines the belt cleaning conditions. The control unit 110 may then perform belt cleaning according to the determined belt cleaning conditions.

[0172] The printer 1 includes a charging roller 81 that charges the conveyor belt 51, and a current detection unit 87 that detects the charging current when the conveyor belt 51 is charged by the charging roller 81. The data processing unit 116 determines the conveyor surface state based on the charging current detected by the current detection unit 87. Printer 1 can accurately determine the transport surface 51a of the transport belt 51.

[0173] The printing control unit 114 varies the belt cleaning process by adjusting the belt cleaning time. Printer 1 can perform belt cleaning according to the condition of the conveying surface, based on the belt cleaning time. [Explanation of symbols]

[0174] 1...Printer, 2...Main unit, 3...Scanner unit, 4...Output tray, 5...Control panel, 10...Paper cassette, 12...Open / close cover, 12a...Paper feed slot, 13...Expansion unit, 13A...First expansion unit, 13B...Second expansion unit, 14...Expansion paper cassette, 14A...First expansion paper cassette, 14B...Second expansion paper cassette, 15...Transport mechanism, 18...Printing unit, 19...Inkjet head, 28...Pickup roller, 29...Separation roller, 31...First roller pair, 32...Second roller pair, 33...Paper feed roller 35... Branching mechanism, 36... Branching roller pair, 37... First reversing conveyor roller pair, 38... Second reversing conveyor roller pair, 39... Third reversing conveyor roller pair, 41... First paper discharge roller pair, 42... Second paper discharge roller pair, 43... Third paper discharge roller pair, 44... Fourth paper discharge roller pair, 45... Fifth paper discharge roller pair, 49... Toothed roller, 50... Conveyor belt unit, 51... Conveyor belt, 51a... Conveyor surface, 52... Drive roller, 52a... Drive roller shaft, 53... Driven roller, 55... Belt support member, 55a... First belt support member, 55b... Second belt 60...Belt support member, 61...Belt unit moving mechanism, 63...Link member, 70...Head cleaning mechanism, 71...Cap, 72...First support member, 73...Second support member, 81...Charging roller, 81a...Charging roller shaft, 82b...Rubber layer, 85...Power supply unit, 87...Current detection unit, 90...Belt cleaning mechanism, 91...Housing, 92...Roll shaft, 93...Winding roller, 94...Pulley, 94a...First pulley, 94b...Second pulley, 94c...Third pulley, 94d...Fourth pulley, 95...Pressing member, 96...Spring, 97...Roller 98...Slide movement mechanism, 100...Printing system, 110...Control unit, 112...Storage unit, 112a...Control table, 114...Print control unit, 116...Data processing unit, 120...Communication interface, 150...Print control device, BR...Branch path, C...Cleaning cloth, CR...Cleaning roll, ER...Paper discharge path, KP...Recording position, M...Printing medium, PR...Printing path, Sa...First sensor, Sb...Second sensor, TP...Retracted position, TR...Conveyor path, TR1...First conveyor path, TR2...Second conveyor path, TR3...Third conveyor path.

Claims

1. A recording device that records onto a recording medium, A recording means that performs the recording by ejecting ink onto the recording medium, The recording means includes a medium transport belt that transports the recording medium on which the recording is performed, A cleaning means that is movable to a contact position in contact with the media conveyor belt, or to a non-contact position not in contact with the media conveyor belt, and performs a cleaning operation on the media conveyor belt when located at the contact position, A discrimination unit for determining the surface condition of the media conveying belt, A control unit that causes the cleaning means to perform the cleaning operation corresponding to the surface condition of the media transport belt determined by the discrimination unit, A recording device equipped with the following features.

2. The discrimination unit acquires the recording conditions of the recording performed by the recording means, and determines the surface state based on the acquired recording conditions. The recording device according to claim 1.

3. The recording conditions are the print duty cycle when the recording means performs the recording on the recording medium, The surface condition is determined by comparing the print duty cycle with a pre-stored print duty threshold. The recording device according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned discrimination unit is When the printing duty cycle is less than or equal to the printing duty cycle threshold, it is determined that the surface state is the first surface state. When the printing duty cycle is greater than the printing duty cycle threshold, it is determined that the surface state is the second surface state. The control unit, When it is determined that the surface state is the first surface state, the cleaning operation under the first condition is performed, and when it is determined that the surface state is the second surface state, the cleaning operation under the second condition which is different from the first condition is performed, thereby differentiating the cleaning operation. The recording device according to claim 3.

5. The first and second conditions include the execution time of the cleaning operation. The recording device according to claim 4.

6. The execution time included in the first condition is the first hour, The execution time included in the second condition is a second time that is longer than the first time. The recording device according to claim 5.

7. The control unit moves the media transport belt when the cleaning means performs the cleaning operation. The first and second conditions include the moving speed of the media conveyor belt. The recording device according to claim 4.

8. The moving speed included in the first condition is a first speed, The moving speed included in the second condition is a second speed that is slower than the first speed. The recording device according to claim 7.

9. The cleaning means is The cleaning material has contact with the media conveying belt, The cleaning material can be transported, The first and second conditions include the amount of cleaning material conveyed. The recording device according to claim 4.

10. A charging means for charging the media conveying belt, The system includes a detection unit for detecting the charging conditions when the medium conveyor belt is charged by the charging means, The discrimination unit determines the surface state based on the charging conditions detected by the detection unit. The recording device according to claim 1.

11. The control unit makes the cleaning operation different by adjusting the execution time of the cleaning operation. The recording device according to claim 10.

12. A control method for a recording device that records on a recording medium, The recording medium is transported by a media transport belt, and the recording is performed by ejecting ink onto the recording medium supported by the media transport belt. The surface condition of the media conveying belt is determined, The cleaning means is moved from a non-contact position where it does not come into contact with the media conveying belt to a contact position where it comes into contact with the media conveying belt. The cleaning means, which is in contact with the media conveying belt, is made to perform a cleaning operation according to the surface condition. Control method.

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