Inkjet recording device

Abstract

To improve the workability of adjusting the position of the inkjet head by stably performing the rotation operation of the adjustment member. [Solution] The inkjet recording device includes an adjustment member that adjusts the position of the inkjet head relative to the mounting base by rotational operation, a movable base that can move in a predetermined direction toward and toward the adjustment member, an operating head that is displaceably mounted on the movable base, and a tool holder that is rotatably mounted on the operating head and holds an operating tool, wherein the displacement of the operating head relative to the movable base is permitted so that the operating tool can follow the adjustment member when the operating tool is fitted into the fitting portion of the adjustment member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inkjet recording apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] In an inkjet recording apparatus, the position of an inkjet head with respect to an attachment base is adjustable (see Patent Document 1, etc.). And the configuration for adjusting the position of the inkjet head (referred to as a head module in Patent Document 1) in the inkjet recording apparatus described in Patent Document 1 is as follows.

[0003] ]>An adjustment member (referred to as a shaft portion of a cam mechanism in Patent Document 1) for adjusting the position of the inkjet head with respect to an attachment base (referred to as a base frame in Patent Document 1) by a rotation operation is provided on the inkjet head. The adjustment member has a fitting portion (referred to as a groove portion in Patent Document 1) on one end side thereof.

[0004] The inkjet recording apparatus described in Patent Document 1 includes a unit body that can move in a direction approaching and separating from the adjustment member. A support portion (referred to as a driver support portion in Patent Document 1) is provided on the unit body, and an operation tool (referred to as a screw driver portion in Patent Document 1) that is non-rotatably fitted into the fitting portion of the adjustment member is rotatably provided on the support portion. The base end portion side of the operation tool is interlockingly connected to a rotation motor for rotating the operation tool.

[0005] The operation tool is supported by the support portion so as to be movable in the thrust direction (axial direction of the operation tool), and is biased in a direction protruding from the support portion by a spring. When the phase of the operation tool and the position of the fitting portion of the adjustment member do not match, the operation tool moves in the opposite direction to the protruding direction against the biasing force of the spring, thereby avoiding damage to the inkjet head due to interference between the operation tool and the adjustment member.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-29044 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] However, in the inkjet recording apparatus described in Patent Document 1, although damage to the inkjet head can be avoided when the phase of the operating tool and the position of the fitting portion of the adjustment member do not match, the tip of the operating tool cannot be fitted into the fitting portion of the adjustment member. As a result, the rotation operation of the adjustment member cannot be performed stably, which leads to a problem of reduced workability in adjusting the position of the inkjet head.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an inkjet recording apparatus that can improve the workability of adjusting the position of the inkjet head by stably performing the rotation operation of the adjustment member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One aspect of the inkjet recording apparatus of the present invention is An inkjet head mounted on the mounting base, An adjustment member having a fitting portion on its base end side, which adjusts the position of the inkjet head relative to the mounting base by rotational operation, A movable base that can move in a predetermined direction toward or toward the adjustment member, An operating head is provided on the movable base so as to be displaceable, The device comprises a tool holder rotatably mounted on the operating head and holding an operating tool that non-rotatably fits into the fitting portion of the adjustment member, When the operating tool is fitted into the fitting portion of the adjustment member, the displacement of the operating head relative to the movable base is permitted so that the operating tool can follow the adjustment member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, the rotational operation of the adjustment member can be performed stably, and as a result, the workability of adjusting the position of the inkjet head can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the inkjet recording apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic bottom view of the head unit according to this embodiment, showing multiple pairs of inkjet heads mounted on a carriage. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a pair of inkjet heads mounted on a carriage. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a front view of a pair of inkjet heads mounted on a carriage. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a side view of a pair of inkjet heads mounted on a carriage. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a bottom view of a pair of inkjet heads mounted on a carriage. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view along the line VII-VII in Figure 4. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of section VIII in Figure 4. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view along the line IX-IX in Figure 8. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the rotary operation unit and the carriage, etc., according to this embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a diagram along the line XI-XI in Figure 10. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the rotary operation unit according to this embodiment, seen from one side in the X direction. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the rotary operation unit according to this embodiment, seen from the other side in the X direction. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an operation unit of a rotation operation unit according to the present embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a front view of an operation unit of a rotation operation unit according to the present embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a side view of an operation unit of a rotation operation unit according to the present embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII in FIG. 15, and is a partial side cross-sectional view of an operation unit of a rotation operation unit according to the present embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII in FIG. 16, and is a partial front cross-sectional view of an operation unit of a rotation operation unit according to the present embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a partial front cross-sectional view of an operation unit of a rotation operation unit according to the present embodiment, and shows a state where a tip end portion of an operation tool is fitted into a fitting concave portion of an adjustment member.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, the conveyance direction is the conveyance direction in which the recording medium is conveyed. The downstream side is the downstream side in the conveyance direction, and the upstream side is the upstream side in the conveyance direction. Further, in the present embodiment, the X direction is the main scanning direction, which is a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction. The Y direction is the sub-scanning direction, which is the conveyance direction. The Z direction is a direction orthogonal to the X direction and the Y direction.

[0013] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the overall configuration of an inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic bottom view of a head unit 42 according to the present embodiment, and shows a state where a plurality of pairs of inkjet heads 46 are attached to a carriage 44.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to this embodiment is a single-pass recording apparatus that forms a color image on the recording medium P by ejecting four colors of ink onto the recording medium P at appropriate timings while transporting the recording medium P in the transport direction. In addition to paper such as plain paper and coated paper, various media that can fix the ink that lands on the surface can be used as the recording medium P, such as cloth and resin film. The inkjet recording apparatus 10 uses ink that changes phase between gel and sol (liquid) depending on the temperature. For example, energy ray irradiation type inks such as UV ink, which are gel-like at room temperature, change to a sol when heated, and solidify when irradiated with energy rays during image formation, can be used.

[0015] The inkjet recording device 10 includes a main unit 12. The main unit 12 has a first housing 14, a second housing 16 located on one side of the first housing 14, and a third housing 18 located on the other side of the first housing 14.

[0016] The second housing 16 is provided with a paper feed unit 20 for feeding recording media P. The paper feed unit 20 has a plate-shaped paper feed tray 22 for placing recording media P, and the paper feed tray 22 is provided on the second housing 16 so as to be movable in the vertical direction. The paper feed tray 22 is configured to move up and down according to the amount of recording media P to be placed on it, and the uppermost recording media P is held at a predetermined height position.

[0017] The paper feeding unit 20 has a transport unit 24 for transporting the recording medium P fed from the paper feeding tray 22 in the transport direction, and the transport unit 24 is provided extending from the second housing 16 to the first housing 14. The transport unit 24 has a plurality of rotatable support rollers 26 and an endless belt 28 provided to wrap around the plurality of support rollers 26. By causing the belt 28 to circulate through the rotation of the plurality of support rollers 26, the recording medium P fed from the paper feeding tray 22 is transported in the transport direction.

[0018] The first housing 14 is provided with an image forming unit 30 for ejecting ink onto a recording medium P to form an image. The image forming unit 30 has an image forming drum 32 that carries the recording medium P, and the image forming drum 32 is rotatably mounted on the first housing 14. With the recording medium P carried on the outer surface (conveying surface) of the image forming drum 32, the image forming drum 32 is rotated by driving a motor (not shown) for the image forming drum, thereby conveying the recording medium P in the conveying direction. The image forming drum 32 has a claw portion (not shown) that holds the edge of the recording medium P and a suction portion (not shown) that attracts the recording medium P.

[0019] The image forming unit 30 has a transfer unit 34 for transferring the recording medium P from the transport unit 24 to the image forming drum 32. The transfer unit 34 is provided between the transport unit 24 and the image forming drum 32 in the first housing 14. The transfer unit 34 has a swing arm 36 that supports one end of the recording medium P transported by the transport unit 24, and a transfer drum 38 that transfers the recording medium P supported by the swing arm 36 to the image forming drum 32. By supporting one end of the recording medium P on the transport unit 24 with the swing arm 36 and transferring it to the transfer drum 38, the recording medium P is transferred from the transfer drum 38 to the image forming drum 32.

[0020] The image forming unit 30 has a medium heating unit 40 for heating the recording medium P supported on the image forming drum 32, and the medium heating unit 40 is provided downstream of the transfer drum 38 in the first housing 14. The medium heating unit 40 is positioned opposite the outer circumferential surface of the image forming drum 32. The medium heating unit 40 has, for example, an infrared heater, and heats the image forming drum 32 and the recording medium P so that the recording medium P being transported by the image forming drum 32 reaches a temperature within a predetermined range.

[0021] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the image forming unit 30 has a plurality of head units 42 (42Y, 42M, 42C, 42K) that eject ink onto the recording medium P supported on the image forming drum 32 to form an image. The plurality of head units 42 (42Y, 42M, 42C, 42K) are arranged downstream of the media heating unit 40 along the circumferential direction of the image forming drum 32. The plurality of head units 42 (42Y, 42M, 42C, 42K) are units corresponding to four colors of ink: yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K).

[0022] Each head unit 42 is held in a carriage 44 that is movable in the X direction (main scanning direction) on the first housing 14. In other words, each head unit 42 is movable in the X direction on the first housing 14 via each carriage 44 (see Figure 10). The multiple carriages 44 are arranged along the circumferential direction of the image forming drum 32 (see Figure 11). Each carriage 44 moves in the X direction by being driven by a carriage motor (not shown).

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, each head unit 42 has multiple pairs of inkjet heads 46 that eject ink onto the recording medium P, and these multiple pairs of inkjet heads 46 are arranged in a staggered pattern along the X direction (main scanning direction). Multiple unpaired inkjet heads 46 may also be arranged in a staggered pattern along the X direction. Multiple nozzles 46n for ejecting ink are formed at the tip of each inkjet head 46. The other configurations of each pair of inkjet heads 46 will be described later.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the image forming unit 30 has a fixing unit 48 for fixing ink to the recording medium P, and the fixing unit 48 is provided downstream of the multiple head units 42 in the first housing 14. The fixing unit 48 is positioned opposite the outer circumferential surface of the image forming drum 32. The fixing unit 48 has a light-emitting unit that irradiates energy rays such as ultraviolet light. The light-emitting unit of the fixing unit 48 applies a predetermined amount of energy to the ink ejected onto the recording medium P, thereby curing the ink and fixing it to the recording medium P.

[0025] The image forming unit 30 has a delivery unit 50 that transports the recording medium P, which has been irradiated with energy rays, from the image forming drum 32 in the transport direction. The delivery unit 50 is provided across the first housing 14 to the third housing 18. The delivery unit 50 has a plurality of rotatable support rollers 52, an endless belt 54 provided to wrap around the plurality of support rollers 52, and a transfer drum 56 that transfers the recording medium P from the image forming drum 32 to the belt 54. By causing the belt 54 to circulate through the rotation of the plurality of support rollers 52, the recording medium P sent out from the image forming drum 32 is transported in the transport direction.

[0026] The third housing 18 is provided with a paper output unit 58 for ejecting the image-formed recording medium P. The paper output unit 58 has a plate-shaped paper output tray 60 for placing the image-formed recording medium P. The paper output unit 58 stores the recording medium P until the user removes the recording medium P from the paper output tray 60.

[0027] Next, the configuration of each pair of inkjet heads 46 and their surroundings will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 9. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the pair of inkjet heads 46 mounted on the carriage 44. Figure 4 is a front view of the pair of inkjet heads 46 mounted on the carriage 44. Figure 5 is a side view of the pair of inkjet heads 46 mounted on the carriage 44. Figure 6 is a bottom view of the pair of inkjet heads 46 mounted on the carriage 44. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view along the line VII-VII in Figure 4. Figure 8 is an enlarged view of section VIII in Figure 4. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view along the line IX-IX in Figure 8. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the rotary operation unit 84 and the carriage 44, etc., according to this embodiment.

[0028] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, each pair of inkjet heads 46 is integrated by each frame 62, which closes the opening 44a formed in each carriage 44. Furthermore, each pair of inkjet heads 46 is supported by a support member 64 fixed to each carriage 44. Note that the frame 62 may be considered as a component constituting part of the pair of inkjet heads 46. The support member 64 may be considered as a component constituting part of the carriage 44.

[0029] As shown in Figures 3 to 6 and Figure 10, each pair of inkjet heads 46 is adjustable relative to each carriage 44, which serves as the mounting base. Each pair of inkjet heads 46 moves in the X direction between the image forming area PA and the adjustment area FA as each carriage 44 moves in the X direction. The image forming area PA is the area for forming an image. The adjustment area FA is the area for adjusting the position of the pair of inkjet heads 46 relative to the carriage 44.

[0030] In order to allow each pair of inkjet heads 46 to be positioned relative to each carriage 44, each head unit 42 has the following configuration.

[0031] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, a first positioning member 66 is provided at a position corresponding to each pair of inkjet heads 46 on the Y-direction edge side of each carriage 44. Each first positioning member 66 has a first positioning hole 66h, which is a circular hole. In addition, a second positioning member 68 is provided at a position spaced in the X direction away from each first positioning member 66 on the Y-direction edge side of each carriage 44, so as to be movable (displaceable) in the Y direction. Each second positioning member 68 has a second positioning hole 68h, which is an elongated hole extending in the X direction.

[0032] Each frame 62 is provided with a first positioning pin 70 at one end in the X direction, which engages with the first positioning hole 66h of each first positioning member 66 from above. When the first positioning pin 70 engages with the first positioning hole 66h of the first positioning member 66, the movement of the pair of inkjet heads 46 in the Y direction is converted into rotational motion (movement in the rotational direction) around the first positioning pin 70.

[0033] Each frame 62 is provided with a second positioning pin 72 on the other end in the X direction, which engages with the second positioning hole 68h of each second positioning member 68 from above. When the second positioning pin 72 engages with the second positioning hole 68h of the second positioning member 68, the second positioning pin 72 moves (displaces) in the X direction along the second positioning hole 68h of the second positioning member 68 during the rotational movement of the pair of inkjet heads 46.

[0034] As shown in Figures 7 to 9, block bodies 74 are provided near each second positioning member 68 at the Y-direction edge of each carriage 44, and both sides of each block body 74 in the Y-direction are open. A screw hole 74v is formed in the upper part of each block body 74, and a fitting hole 74h is formed in the lower part of each block body 74. Note that the block body 74 may be considered as a component that constitutes part of the carriage 44.

[0035] Guide holes 44v are formed on both sides in the X direction of each block body 74 at the Y-direction edge of each carriage 44. At least a portion of each guide hole 44v in each carriage 44 may be formed in a tapered shape that narrows towards the bottom of each guide hole 44v.

[0036] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, each block body 74 has a screw hole 74v into which an adjustment member 76 is screwed, which adjusts the position of each pair of inkjet heads 46 by rotation. Each adjustment member 76 extends in a direction slightly inclined with respect to the Z direction, and each adjustment member 76 moves (displaces) in the axial direction (the inclined direction) by rotation. Each adjustment member 76 has a fitting recess 76d on its base end side as a fitting portion. The base end side of each adjustment member 76 fits into the fitting hole 74h of each block body 74. Each adjustment member 76 moves in the X direction between the image forming area PA (see Figure 10) and the adjustment area FA (see Figure 10) as the carriage 44 moves in the X direction.

[0037] Each adjustment member 76 has an annular flange portion 76f in its middle section, and the outer circumferential surface 76p of the flange portion 76f of each adjustment member 76 abuts against the end face 68e in the Y direction of each second positioning member 68. The end face 68e of each second positioning member 68 is an inclined surface inclined with respect to the Y direction so that the axial movement (displacement) of each adjustment member 76 is converted into the Y direction movement of each pair of inkjet heads 46. The outer circumferential surface 76p of the flange portion 76f of each adjustment member 76 is a rounded surface, but it may also be an inclined surface or edge (pointed surface) inclined in the opposite direction to the end face 68e of each second positioning member 68.

[0038] The amount of movement (displacement) of each pair of inkjet heads 46 in the Y direction is smaller than the amount of movement of each adjustment member 76 in the axial direction. The amount of movement of each pair of inkjet heads 46 in the Y direction is proportional to the amount of movement of each adjustment member 76 in the axial direction.

[0039] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, a leaf spring 78 is provided at the lower part of each support member 64 to bias each pair of inkjet heads 46 to one side in the Y direction. By biasing each pair of inkjet heads 46 to one side in the Y direction, each leaf spring 78 biases the end face 68e of each second positioning member 68 toward the outer peripheral surface 76p of the flange portion 76f of each adjustment member 76.

[0040] As shown in Figure 9, a coil spring 80 is provided between the flange portion 76f of each adjustment member 76 and the upper part of the block body 74, biasing the outer peripheral surface 76p of the flange portion 76f toward the end face 68e of each second positioning member 68. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3 to 5 and Figure 8, pressing portions 82 are provided on both sides in the X direction of each frame 62 of each carriage 44, which press each pair of inkjet heads 46 toward the carriage 44 by elastic force.

[0041] With the above configuration, when the adjustment member 76 is rotated by a rotational operation, the adjustment member 76 moves in its axial direction (the inclined direction) due to the screw action between the adjustment member 76 and the screw hole 74v of the block body 74. Then, while maintaining contact between the outer peripheral surface 76p of the flange portion 76f of the adjustment member 76 and the end face 68e of the second positioning member 68, the pair of inkjet heads 46 rotate around the first positioning pin 70 while moving in the Y direction. This makes it possible to adjust the position of the pair of inkjet heads 46 in the Y direction relative to the carriage 44, and also to adjust the inclination position of the pair of inkjet heads 46 with respect to the X direction (the longitudinal direction of the carriage 44).

[0042] As shown in Figure 10, the inkjet recording device 10 includes a rotary operation unit 84 for rotating an adjustment member 76 located in the adjustment area FA. The rotary operation unit 84 is positioned on one side in the X direction of the image forming drum 32 within the first housing 14.

[0043] Next, the specific configuration of the rotary operation unit 84 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 19. Figure 11 is a diagram along the line XI-XI in Figure 10. Figure 12 is a perspective view of the rotary operation unit 84 according to this embodiment from one side in the X direction. Figure 12 is a perspective view of the rotary operation unit 84 according to this embodiment from the other side in the X direction. Figure 14 is a perspective view of the operating section 88 of the rotary operation unit 84 according to this embodiment. Figure 15 is a front view of the operating section 88 of the rotary operation unit 84 according to this embodiment. Figure 16 is a side view of the operating section 88 of the rotary operation unit 84 according to this embodiment.

[0044] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view along the line XVII-XVII in Figure 15, and is a partial side cross-sectional view of the operating section 88 of the rotary operating unit 84 according to this embodiment. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view along the line XVIII-XVIII in Figure 16, and is a partial front cross-sectional view of the operating section 88 of the rotary operating unit 84 according to this embodiment. Figure 19 is a partial front cross-sectional view of the operating section 88 of the rotary operating unit 84 according to this embodiment, showing the tip of the operating tool 132 fitted into the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76.

[0045] As shown in Figures 10 to 13, the rotation operation unit 84 according to this embodiment includes a box-shaped base frame 86, which is located on one side in the X direction of the image forming drum 32 within the first housing 14. The base frame 86 is also provided with an operating unit 88 for rotating the adjustment member 76, which is rotatable around the axis of a horizontal pivot shaft 90, and the operating unit 88 extends in a direction perpendicular to the pivot shaft 90. The pivot shaft 90 extends in the X direction and is rotatably supported by the base frame 86. The pivot shaft 90 is located concentrically with the axis (center of the rotation axis) of the image forming drum 32. If the pivot shaft 90 is considered as a horizontal pivot axis, the operating unit 88 may be considered as being rotatably provided on the base frame 86 around the axis of the horizontal pivot axis.

[0046] A pivot motor 92 is provided at an appropriate position on the base frame 86, serving as a pivot actuator for pivoting the operating unit 88 around the axis of the pivot shaft 90. A drive gear (not shown) is linked to the output shaft (not shown) of the pivot motor 92. A driven gear 94 that meshes with the drive gear is integrally provided on the pivot shaft 90. By rotating the operating unit 88 around the axis of the pivot shaft 90 using the drive of the pivot motor 92, the operating unit 88 can be positioned to face the adjustment member 76 positioned in the adjustment region FA.

[0047] As shown in Figures 14 to 18, the operating section 88 has a slewing frame 96 that extends in a direction perpendicular to the slewing axis 90, and the base end of the slewing frame 96 is integrally connected to the slewing axis 90. The slewing frame 96 has a pair of slewing plates 98 that face each other in the X direction, and the base end of each slewing plate 98 is integrally connected to the slewing axis 90. Each slewing plate 98 extends in a direction perpendicular to the slewing axis 90. The slewing frame 96 has a rectangular connecting plate 100 that integrally connects the upper ends of the pair of slewing plates 98, and an opening 100a is formed in the center of the connecting plate 100.

[0048] As shown in Figures 14 to 16, a guided air cylinder 102 is provided as a moving actuator at the tip end of the slewing frame 96. The air cylinder 102 has a cylinder body 104 fixed to the tip end of the slewing frame 96, and an operating rod 106 that is provided on the cylinder body 104 so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the slewing frame 96 (in a direction perpendicular to the slewing axis 90) by air pressure.

[0049] The air cylinder 102 has guide rods 108 that are provided on both sides of the operating rod 106 in the cylinder body 104 so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the operating section 88. The air cylinder 102 has a slide plate 110 connected to the tip of the operating rod 106 and the tips of the pair of guide rods 108.

[0050] As shown in Figures 11, 14, and 15, a rectangular movable base 112 is provided on the slide plate 110 of the air cylinder 102. In other words, the movable base 112 is provided on the tip side of the swivel frame 96 via the air cylinder 102. The movable base 112 is movable in the longitudinal direction of the operating unit 88 by the drive of the air cylinder 102. When the operating unit 88 is facing the adjustment member 76 positioned in the adjustment region FA, the longitudinal direction of the operating unit 88 corresponds to a predetermined direction of approaching and moving away from the adjustment member 76. In other words, the movable base 112 is movable in a predetermined direction of approaching and moving away from the adjustment member 76 positioned in the adjustment region FA.

[0051] As shown in Figures 17 and 18, an opening 112a is formed in the center of the movable platform 112. Also, as shown in Figure 11, the movable platform 112 moves along the arrangement direction of the multiple carriages 44 by rotating the operating unit 88 around the axis of the pivot shaft 90 by driving the slewing motor 92.

[0052] As shown in Figures 15, 18, and 19, a pair of support pins 114 are erected on the connecting plate 100, spaced apart in the X direction, and the pair of support pins 114 are inserted through the opening 112a of the movable base 112. An operating head 116 is displaceably mounted on the movable base 112. The operating head 116 has a rectangular base plate 118, and the base plate 118 has loose fitting holes 118h formed therein for loosely fitting each support pin 114.

[0053] The operating head 116 has a rectangular top plate 120 facing the base plate 118 in the predetermined direction, and a plurality of connecting rods 122 that integrally connect the base plate 118 and the top plate 120. The operating head 116 has a pair of side plates 124 provided between the base plate 118 and the top plate 120, and the pair of side plates 124 face each other in the X direction.

[0054] As shown in Figures 15, 18, and 19, the operating head 116 is supported on the movable base 112 so as to be displaceable and tiltable in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the operating section 88, by having each support pin 114 loosely fitted into each loose fitting hole 118h of the base plate 118. In other words, the operating head 116 is supported on the movable base 112 so as to be displaceable and tiltable in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction.

[0055] As shown in Figures 11, 13, and 14, the operating unit 88 is rotated around the axis of the pivot shaft 90 by the drive of the swivel motor 92, thereby allowing the operating head 116 to face the adjustment member 76 positioned in the adjustment region FA. Furthermore, the operating head 116 is moved in the predetermined direction by the drive of the air cylinder 102, which moves the movable base 112 in the predetermined direction.

[0056] As shown in Figures 17 to 19, the bottom plate 118 of the operating head 116 is provided with a plurality of ball plungers 126 as contact members that elastically contact the movable base 112. The plurality of ball plungers 126 are arranged at intervals around the axis of the operating head 116. Each ball plunger 126 has a ball portion 126b that rotatably contacts the movable base 112 and a coil spring (not shown) that biases the ball portion 126b toward the movable base 112.

[0057] A cylindrical first bearing member 128 is provided in the center of the bottom plate 118, and the axis of the first bearing member 128 coincides with the axis of the operating head 116. A cylindrical second bearing member 130 is provided in the center of the top plate 120, and the axis of the second bearing member 130 coincides with the axis of the operating head 116.

[0058] As shown in Figures 17 to 19, a tool holder 134 that integrally holds the operating tool 132 is rotatably mounted on the first bearing member 128. In other words, the tool holder 134 that integrally holds the operating tool 132 is rotatably mounted on the operating head 116 via the first bearing member 128. An annular stepped portion 134s is formed on the tip side of the tool holder 134. The operating tool 132 is positioned concentrically with the tool holder 134 and protrudes outward from the second bearing member 130 to the outside of the operating head 116. The operating tool 132 is detachably replaceable with respect to the tool holder 134.

[0059] As shown in Figures 10, 12, 18, and 19, the tip of the operating tool 132 is non-rotatably fitted into the fitting recess 76d of each adjustment member 76 when the operating head 116 is facing each carriage 44 positioned in the adjustment region FA. As the movable base 112 moves in a direction approaching the adjustment member 76 positioned in the adjustment region FA (one side of the predetermined direction), the tip of the operating tool 132 is non-rotatably fitted into the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76. If the fitting recess 76d of each adjustment member 76 is considered as an example of an engaging recess of the engaged portion, then the tip of the operating tool 132 may be considered to be non-rotatably engaged with the engaging recess of the adjustment member 76.

[0060] When the tip of the operating tool 132 is fitted into the fitting recess 76d of each adjustment member 76, displacement and tilting displacement of the operating head 116 in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction relative to the movable base 112 are permitted so that the operating tool 132 can follow each adjustment member 76. In other words, when the tip of the operating tool 132 is fitted into the fitting recess 76d of each adjustment member 76, displacement of the operating head 116 relative to the movable base 112 is permitted by an amount corresponding to the gap (play) between each support pin 114 and each loose fitting hole 118h of the bottom plate 118.

[0061] As shown in Figures 14, 15, and 17, a rotary motor 136 is provided at the base end of the swivel frame 96 as a rotary actuator for rotating the tool holder 134 (operating tool 132). The base end of a transmission shaft 138 is interlocked with the output shaft of the rotary motor 136 via a universal joint 140 or the like, and the transmission shaft 138 is located concentrically with the tool holder 134.

[0062] A pair of slits 138s extending in the predetermined direction are formed at the tip end of the transmission shaft 138. The tip end of the transmission shaft 138 is connected to the base end of the tool holder 134 so as to be relatively movable in the predetermined direction but not rotatable. A rotation-preventing pin 142 is provided at the base end of the tool holder 134, and each end of the rotation-preventing pin 142 engages with each slit 138s of the transmission shaft 138 so as to be movable in the predetermined direction.

[0063] As shown in Figures 11, 14, and 15, the rotation of the transmission shaft 138 by the drive of the rotary motor 136 causes the tool holder 134 and the operating tool 132 to rotate integrally with the transmission shaft 138. The operation unit 88 is rotated around the axis of the swivel shaft 90 by the drive of the swivel motor 92, so that the operating tool 132 can be positioned opposite the adjustment member 76 which is positioned in the adjustment region FA.

[0064] As shown in Figures 16 to 19, a coil spring 144 is provided between the stepped portion 134s of the tool holder 134 and the first bearing member 128, biasing the tool holder 134 toward its tip (one side of the predetermined direction). In other words, the tool holder 134 is supported by the operating head 116 via the coil spring 144. By driving the air cylinder 102 to move the movable base 112 toward the predetermined direction, the tool holder 134 (operating tool 132) moves toward the predetermined direction together with the operating head 116.

[0065] As shown in Figures 17 to 19, a retaining block 146 is provided on the tip surface of the tool holder 134, and an insertion hole 146h is formed in the retaining block 146 for inserting the operating tool 132. The retaining block 146 has a pair of claw portions 146c on its tip side. A movable piece 148 is provided between the pair of claw portions 146c of the retaining block 146 so as to be displaceable in the axial direction (the predetermined direction) of the tool holder 134, and the movable piece 148 has a dog 148d.

[0066] The second bearing member 130 is provided with a guide sleeve 150 that is displaceable in the axial direction of the tool holder 134. This guide sleeve guides the tip of the operating tool 132 into the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76. The base end of the guide sleeve 150 is integrally connected to the movable piece 148. A coil spring 152 is provided on the tip side of the holding block 146 to bias the movable piece 148 toward the tip of the guide sleeve 150 (one side of the predetermined direction).

[0067] As shown in Figure 17, a photosensor 154 is provided on the side of the retaining block 146 via a bracket 156. The photosensor 154 uses a dog 148d to detect when the guide sleeve 150 is displaced relative to the tool holder 134 in the opposite direction to the tip of the guide sleeve 150 (the other side of the predetermined direction).

[0068] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the top plate 120 is provided with a pair of bushings 158, which are located on both sides of the second bearing member 130. Each bushing 158 is provided with a guide pin 160 that is movable in the axial direction (the predetermined direction) of the tool holder 134. In other words, the operating head 116 is provided with a pair of guide pins 160 that are movable in the axial direction of the tool holder 134 via a pair of guide bushings 158. Each guide pin 160 engages with each guide hole 44v of each carriage 44 prior to the engagement of the tip of the operating tool 132 with the fitting recess 76d of each adjustment member 76. At least a portion of the tip side of each guide pin 160 is formed in a tapered shape that narrows toward the tip of each guide pin 160.

[0069] Each side plate 124 is provided with a coil spring 162 via a bracket 164, which acts as a biasing member that biases each guide pin 160 toward its tip (to one side of the predetermined direction). Each side plate 124 is provided with a detection switch 166 via a bracket 168. Each detection switch 166 detects when each guide pin 160 moves in the opposite direction to the tip of each guide pin 160 (to the other side of the predetermined direction) against the biasing force of each coil spring 162.

[0070] With the above configuration, the carriage 44 is moved in the X direction to position the pair of inkjet heads 46 to be adjusted and the adjustment member 76 to be operated in the adjustment area FA. In addition, the operating unit 88 is rotated around the axis of the pivot shaft 90 by the drive of the swivel motor 92, so that the operating head 116 faces the adjustment member 76 to be operated.

[0071] Subsequently, the movable base 112 is moved to one side in the predetermined direction by the drive of the air cylinder 102, and the operating tool 132 is moved to the same side in the predetermined direction together with the operating head 116. Then, each guide pin 160 engages with the respective guide holes 44v of the carriage 44, and subsequently, the tip of the operating tool 132 is non-rotatably fitted into the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76 to be operated. Then, the transmission shaft 138 is rotated by the drive of the rotary motor 136, causing the tool holder 134 and the operating tool 132 to rotate integrally with the transmission shaft 138. This allows the adjustment member 76 to be operated to be rotated, and the position (position in the Y direction and tilt position) of the pair of inkjet heads 46 to be adjusted can be adjusted as described above.

[0072] In the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to this embodiment, the displacement of the operating head 116 relative to the movable base 112 is permitted so that the operating tool 132 can follow the adjustment member 76 when the tip of the operating tool 132 is fitted into the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76. Therefore, when the adjustment member 76 is rotated, the tip of the operating tool 132 can be stably fitted into the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76. In other words, when the adjustment member 76 is rotated, poor fitting between the tip of the operating tool 132 and the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76 can be suppressed.

[0073] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the rotation operation of the adjustment member 76 can be performed stably, and as a result, the workability of adjusting the position of the inkjet head 46 can be improved.

[0074] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10 in this embodiment, the operating head 116 is provided with guide pins 160 that engage with each guide hole 44v of the carriage 44. Therefore, when rotating the adjustment member 76, poor fitting between the tip of the operating tool 132 and the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76 can be further suppressed.

[0075] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the rotation operation of the adjustment member 76 can be performed more stably, and as a result, the workability of adjusting the position of the inkjet head 46 can be improved.

[0076] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10 in this embodiment, when the tip of the operating tool 132 is fitted into the fitting recess 76d of each adjustment member 76, displacement of the operating head 116 in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction relative to the movable base 112 is permitted. Therefore, when rotating the adjustment member 76, poor fitting between the tip of the operating tool 132 and the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76 can be further suppressed.

[0077] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the rotation operation of the adjustment member 76 can be performed more stably, and as a result, the workability of adjusting the position of the inkjet head 46 can be improved.

[0078] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10 in this embodiment, when the tip of the operating tool 132 is fitted into the fitting recess 76d of each adjustment member 76, tilting displacement of the operating head 116 relative to the movable base 112 is permitted. Therefore, when rotating the adjustment member 76, poor fitting between the tip of the operating tool 132 and the fitting recess 76d of the adjustment member 76 can be further suppressed.

[0079] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the rotation operation of the adjustment member 76 can be performed more stably, and as a result, the workability of adjusting the position of the inkjet head 46 can be improved.

[0080] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10 in this embodiment, a ball plunger 126 is provided at the bottom of the operating head 116 as a contact member that elastically contacts the movable base 112. Therefore, when the tip of the operating tool 132 is fitted into the fitting recess 76d of each adjustment member 76, the tilting displacement of the operating head 116 relative to the movable base 112 can be stabilized. In particular, when multiple ball plungers 126 as multiple contact members are arranged at intervals around the axis of the operating head 116, the tilting displacement of the operating head 116 relative to the movable base 112 can be stabilized even more.

[0081] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the rotation operation of the adjustment member 76 can be performed more stably, and as a result, the workability of adjusting the position of the inkjet head 46 can be improved.

[0082] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10 in this embodiment, as described above, the movable stage 112 moves along the arrangement direction of the multiple carriages 44. The tip of the operating tool 132 is non-rotatably fitted into the fitting recess 76d of each adjustment member 76 with the operating head 116 facing each carriage 44. Therefore, the position of any inkjet head 46 among the multiple inkjet heads 46 provided on the multiple carriages 44 can be adjusted.

[0083] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the workability of adjusting the positions of the multiple inkjet heads 46 provided on the multiple carriages 44 can be improved.

[0084] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in this embodiment, as described above, the base end of the transmission shaft 138 is interlocked and connected to the output shaft of the rotary motor 136, which acts as a rotary actuator. The tip end of the transmission shaft 138 is connected to the base end of the tool holder 134 so as to be relatively movable in the predetermined direction but not rotatable. Therefore, by rotating the transmission shaft 138 by driving the rotary motor 136, the tool holder 134 and the operating tool 132 can be rotated stably.

[0085] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording device 10 of this embodiment, the operational reliability of the rotary operation unit 82, in other words, the operational reliability of the inkjet recording device 10 can be improved.

[0086] Although this embodiment has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiment described above. For example, instead of the adjustment member 76 being provided on the carriage 44 side via the block body 74, it may be provided on the inkjet head 46 side. Furthermore, various modifications and changes are possible to the specific examples described above within the scope of the gist of the present invention as described in the claims. [Industrial applicability]

[0087] The present invention is useful as an inkjet recording device because it can improve the workability of adjusting the position of the inkjet head by stably performing the rotation operation of the adjustment member. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0088] 10. Inkjet recording device 12 Main unit of the device 14. First cabinet 16. Second cabinet 18. Third cabinet 20 Paper feed section 22 Paper feed tray 24 Conveying section 26 Support rollers 28 belts 30 Image forming unit 32 Image forming drum 34 Transfer Unit 36 Swingarm 38. Transfer drum 40 Medium heating section 42 Head Units 42Y Head Unit 42M Head Unit 42C Head Unit 42K Head Unit 44 Carriage (Mounting Base) 44h through hole 46 inkjet heads 46n nozzle 48 Fixing section 50 Delivery Department 52 Support rollers 54 belts 56 Transfer drum 58 Paper output section 60 Paper Output Tray 62 Frame 64 Support Members 66 First positioning member 66h First positioning hole 68 Second positioning member 68e end face 68h Second positioning hole 70 First positioning pin 72 Second positioning pin 74 Block letters 74h Fitting hole 74V screw holes 76 Adjustment Member 76f Flange section 76d Fitting recess (fitted portion) 76p outer surface 78 Leaf spring 80 Coil Springs 82 Pressing part 84 Rotary Operation Unit 86 Base Frame 88 Control section 90 Swivel axis 92. Swivel motor (swivel actuator) 94 Driven gear 96 Swivel Frame 98 Swivel Plate 100 Connecting plate 100a opening 102 Air Cylinder 104 Cylinder body 106 Operating rod 108 Guide Rod 110 Slide plate 112 Movable platform 112a opening 114 Support pins 116 Operating head 118 Bottom plate 118h Free fit hole 120 Top plate 122 Connecting Rods 124 Side panel 126 Ball plunger (contact member) 126b Ball Club 128 First bearing member 130 Second bearing member 132 Operating tools 134 Tool Holder 134s stepped section 136 Rotary Motor (Rotary Actuator) 138 Transmission shaft 138s Slit 140 Universal Joint 142 pins 144 Coil spring 146 Holding block 146c Claw part 146h Through hole 148 Movable piece 148d Dog 150 Guide Sleeves 152 Coil spring 154 Photosensor 156 brackets 158 Bush 160 guide pins 162 Coil Springs 164 brackets 166 detection switch 168 brackets PA image forming area FA adjustment area P recording medium

Claims

1. An inkjet head mounted on the mounting base, An adjustment member having a fitting portion on its base end side, which adjusts the position of the inkjet head relative to the mounting base by rotational operation, A movable base that can move in a predetermined direction toward or toward the adjustment member, An operating head is provided on the movable base so as to be displaceable, The device comprises a tool holder rotatably mounted on the operating head and holding an operating tool that non-rotatably fits into the fitting portion of the adjusting member, When the operating tool is fitted into the fitting portion of the adjustment member, the displacement of the operating head relative to the movable base is permitted so that the operating tool can follow the adjustment member. Inkjet recording device.

2. The operating head is further provided with a guide pin that can engage with a guide hole formed in the mounting base, The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

3. Prior to the engagement of the operating tool with the fitting portion of the adjustment member, the guide pin engages with the guide hole. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The operating head is supported on the movable base so as to be displaceable in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction, and the displacement of the operating head in the direction perpendicular to the movable base is permitted so that the operating tool can follow the adjustment member when the operating tool is fitted into the fitting portion of the adjustment member. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The operating head is supported on the movable base so as to be tiltable and displaceable, and tilting displacement of the operating head relative to the movable base is permitted so that the operating tool can follow the adjustment member when the operating tool is fitted into the fitting portion of the adjustment member. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The operating head is further provided with a contact member that is located at the bottom and contacts the movable base with elastic force, The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The number of the aforementioned contact members is multiple, and the multiple contact members are arranged at intervals around the axis of the operating head. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned contact member is a ball plunger. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The number of the aforementioned mounting bases is multiple. The movable base moves along the arrangement direction of the plurality of mounting bases. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

10. The operating tool is fitted non-rotatably to the fitting portion of each adjustment member when the operating head is facing each mounting base. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 9.

11. A rotary actuator for rotating the tool holder, The device further comprises a transmission shaft whose base end is linked to the output shaft of the rotary actuator, and whose tip end is connected to the base end of the tool holder so as to be relatively movable in the predetermined direction but not rotatable. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

12. The adjustment member adjusts the inclination position of the inkjet head with respect to the longitudinal direction of the mounting base. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

13. The adjustment member is provided on the mounting base side or the inkjet head side. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

Images