Liquid ejection device

Abstract

To provide a liquid discharge device which facilitates replacement of a unit.SOLUTION: A liquid discharge device 11 includes: a head with a nozzle for discharging liquid; a supply unit 41 for supplying liquid to the head; a maintenance unit 71 for maintaining the head; a selector unit 141 for selecting a unit to be open to the atmosphere, out of the supply unit and the maintenance unit; and a housing 12 for housing the supply unit, the maintenance unit and the selector unit. The housing has an opening surface 22 in which an exposure port 25 is open, and a cover for closing the exposure port. The exposure port exposes the supply unit, the maintenance unit and the selector unit, and when viewing the exposure port from a position opposite to the opening surface, the supply unit, the maintenance unit and the selector unit respectively are positioned in a non-overlapping manner.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 18

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 includes a plurality of units such as a head unit, a wiping unit, a cap unit, and a discharge unit, and a housing that houses the plurality of units. In this liquid ejection device, the cap unit and the discharge unit are configured to be interchangeable through an opening formed in the housing. The cap unit becomes accessible when the discharge unit is removed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such a liquid ejection device, when replacing one unit, it is necessary to remove another unit. Therefore, it may be time-consuming to replace the unit.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The liquid ejection device that solves the above problems includes a head having a nozzle for ejecting liquid, a supply unit for supplying liquid to the head, a maintenance unit for maintaining the head, a selector unit for selecting a unit to be opened to the atmosphere among the supply unit and the maintenance unit, and a housing for housing the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit. The housing has an opening surface where an exposure port is opened and a cover for closing the exposure port. The exposure port exposes the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit, and when the exposure port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit are positioned so as not to overlap with each other.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

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Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0007] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the liquid ejection device will be described with reference to the drawings. The liquid ejection device is, for example, an inkjet printer that records images such as characters and photographs by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper or fabric.

[0008] As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a housing 12. The housing 12 will be described later. The liquid ejection device 11 includes one or more accommodating portions 13. The accommodating portion 13 is configured to accommodate the medium M1. The accommodating portion 13 is, for example, a cassette that can be pulled out with respect to the housing 12.

[0009] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a conveyance path 14. The conveyance path 14 is a path through which the medium M1 is conveyed. The conveyance path 14 extends inside the housing 12. In this example, the conveyance path 14 extends so as to discharge the medium M1 from the accommodating portion 13 to the outside of the housing 12. The medium M1 is recorded with an image in the process of being conveyed through the conveyance path 14.

[0010] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a conveyance unit 15. The conveyance unit 15 is configured to convey a medium M1. The conveyance unit 15 has, for example, one or more rollers. The conveyance unit 15 conveys the medium M1 accommodated in the accommodation unit 13 along a conveyance path 14.

[0011] In this example, the conveyance unit 15 includes a conveyance belt 16, a first pulley 17, and a second pulley 18. The conveyance belt 16 is wound around the first pulley 17 and the second pulley 18. The conveyance belt 16 adsorbs the medium M1 by, for example, electrostatic adsorption. Thereby, the conveyance belt 16 supports the medium M1. The first pulley 17 and the second pulley 18 are positioned along the conveyance path 14. As the first pulley 17 and the second pulley 18 rotate, the conveyance belt 16 circulates. As a result, the medium M1 supported by the conveyance belt 16 is conveyed.

[0012] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a stacker 19. Recorded media M1 are stacked on the stacker 19. The stacker 19 is located, for example, outside the housing 12. In this example, the medium M1 discharged outside the housing 12 through the conveyance path 14 is stacked on the stacker 19.

[0013] Next, the housing 12 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 12 is, for example, rectangular parallelepiped as a whole. The housing 12 has a plurality of surfaces. The housing 12 has a pull-out surface 21. The pull-out surface 21 is a surface from which the accommodation unit 13 is pulled out of the housing 12. The housing 12 has an opening surface 22. The opening surface 22 is, for example, a surface adjacent to the pull-out surface 21.

[0014] The housing 12 has one or more covers. The housing 12 has an open cover 23. The open cover 23 is located on the drawer surface 21. The open cover 23 is configured to be openable and closable in the housing 12, for example. When the open cover 23 is opened, the inside of the housing 12 is exposed. The open cover 23 may be configured to be detachable from the housing 12. The housing 12 has an exposed cover 24. The exposed cover 24 is located on the opening surface 22. The exposed cover 24 is configured to be detachable from the housing 12, for example. Similar to the open cover 23, the exposed cover 24 may be configured to be openable and closable in the housing 12.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 3, the housing 12 has an exposure port 25. The exposure port 25 opens on the opening surface 22. The exposure port 25 is closed by the exposed cover 24. When the exposed cover 24 is removed, the exposure port 25 is exposed. Through the exposure port 25, the inside of the housing 12 is exposed. Specifically, through the exposure port 25, a plurality of units included in the liquid ejection device 11 are exposed.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a plurality of units. The liquid ejection device 11 includes, for example, a head unit 31, a supply unit 41, a maintenance unit 71, a mounting unit 101, a cap unit 111, a wiping unit 131, and a selector unit 141. In FIGS. 4 and 5, the head unit 31 is omitted. The housing 12 houses these units.

[0017] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a plurality of fixing members. The plurality of fixing members are members that respectively fix the plurality of units to the housing 12. The plurality of fixing members fix, for example, each of the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 to the housing 12. The fixing members are, for example, screws, pins, etc. The plurality of units are respectively fixed to the housing 12 by the fixing members. Specifically, the plurality of units are fixed to the sheet metal included in the housing 12 by the fixing members. The fixing members will be appropriately described together with the description of each unit.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid ejection apparatus 11 includes a head unit 31. The head unit 31 is a unit that records an image on the medium M1. The head unit 31 has a head 32. The head 32 has one or more nozzles 33. The head 32 ejects liquid from the nozzles 33. The head 32 has a nozzle surface 34 which is the surface where the nozzles 33 open. The head 32 records an image on the medium M1 by ejecting liquid from the nozzles 33 onto the medium M1.

[0019] The head 32 records an image on the medium M1 conveyed by the conveyance unit 15. The head 32 is located, for example, at a position facing the conveyance belt 16. In this example, the head 32 records an image on the medium M1 supported by the conveyance belt 16.

[0020] The head unit 31 has a first head flow path 35 and a second head flow path 36. The first head flow path 35 and the second head flow path 36 are flow paths through which liquid flows. The first head flow path 35 and the second head flow path 36 are connected to the supply unit 41.

[0021] The first head flow path 35 and the second head flow path 36 each have a head flow path portion 37. The head flow path portion 37 may include an elastic tube, may include a rigid pipe, or may include a flow path formed by a groove engraved in a plate.

[0022] The first head flow path 35 and the second head flow path 36 have joints. The first head flow path 35 and the second head flow path 36 have a common head joint 38. The head joint 38 is located at one end of the head flow path portion 37. The head joint 38 constitutes one end of the first head flow path 35 and one end of the second head flow path 36. The first head flow path 35 and the second head flow path 36 may each have an individual joint.

[0023] The first head flow path 35 and the second head flow path 36 extend from the head 32. The first head flow path 35 and the second head flow path 36 are flow paths that connect the head 32 to the supply unit 41. A head joint 38 is located at the tips of the first head flow path 35 and the second head flow path 36.

[0024] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a supply unit 41. The supply unit 41 is a unit that supplies liquid to the head 32. The supply unit 41 has a holder 42. The holder 42 is configured such that one or more liquid containers 43 can be mounted. In this example, the holder 42 is configured such that four liquid containers 43 can be mounted. The four liquid containers 43 store, for example, different liquids. The four liquid containers 43 store, for example, cyan ink, magenta ink, yellow ink, and black ink, respectively.

[0025] The liquid container 43 is, for example, a cartridge that stores liquid. When the liquid container 43 is mounted on the holder 42, liquid can be supplied from the liquid container 43 to the head 32. The liquid container 43 is exchanged, for example, through the extraction surface 21. The liquid container 43 can be exchanged by opening the open cover 23. The liquid container 43 may have a container valve 44. In this case, the container valve 44 opens when the liquid container 43 is mounted on the holder 42.

[0026] The supply unit 41 has a first tank 45. The first tank 45 is connected to the holder 42. The first tank 45 is configured to store liquid. The first tank 45 stores the liquid flowing from the liquid container 43. For example, due to the head difference, liquid flows from the liquid container 43 into the first tank 45.

[0027] The supply unit 41 has a second tank 46. The second tank 46 is connected to the first tank 45. The second tank 46 is configured to store liquid. The second tank 46 stores the liquid flowing from the first tank 45.

[0028] The supply unit 41 has a one-way valve. The supply unit 41 has a tank valve 47 as the one-way valve. The tank valve 47 is located between the first tank 45 and the second tank 46. That is, the first tank 45 and the second tank 46 are connected via the tank valve 47. The tank valve 47 allows liquid to flow from the first tank 45 to the second tank 46. The tank valve 47 restricts liquid from flowing from the second tank 46 to the first tank 45.

[0029] The supply unit 41 has a first supply channel 48, a second supply channel 49, a third supply channel 50, a fourth supply channel 51, and a fifth supply channel 52. The first supply channel 48 and the second supply channel 49 are channels through which liquid flows. The third supply channel 50, the fourth supply channel 51, and the fifth supply channel 52 are channels through which gas flows. The first supply channel 48 and the second supply channel 49 are connected to the head unit 31. The third supply channel 50, the fourth supply channel 51, and the fifth supply channel 52 are connected to the selector unit 141.

[0030] The first supply channel 48 and the second supply channel 49 each have a liquid channel portion 53. In this example, the liquid channel portion 53 includes an elastic tube. The liquid channel portion 53 may include, for example, a rigid pipe or a channel formed by grooves engraved on a plate.

[0031] The first supply channel 48 and the second supply channel 49 have joints. The first supply channel 48 and the second supply channel 49 have a common first supply joint 54. The first supply joint 54 is located at one end of the liquid channel portion 53. The first supply joint 54 constitutes one end of the first supply channel 48 and one end of the second supply channel 49. The first supply channel 48 and the second supply channel 49 may each have an individual joint.

[0032] The first supply channel 48 extends from the first tank 45. The first supply channel 48 extends from the lower part of the first tank 45. The first supply channel 48 is a channel that connects the first tank 45 to the head unit 31. The first supply joint 54 is located at the tip of the first supply channel 48.

[0033] The second supply channel 49 extends from the second tank 46. The second supply channel 49 extends from the lower part of the second tank 46. The second supply channel 49 is a channel that connects the second tank 46 to the head unit 31. At the tip of the second supply channel 49, the first supply joint 54 is located.

[0034] The first supply joint 54 is connected to the head joint 38. Thereby, the first supply channel 48 is connected to the first head channel 35. The second supply channel 49 is connected to the second head channel 36. The supply unit 41 and the head unit 31 are connected by the first supply channel 48, the second supply channel 49, the first head channel 35, and the second head channel 36. Liquid flows between the first tank 45 and the head 32 through the first supply channel 48 and the first head channel 35. Liquid flows between the second tank 46 and the head 32 through the second supply channel 49 and the second head channel 36.

[0035] The liquid channel part 53 may be directly connected to the head joint 38. The head channel part 37 may be directly connected to the first supply joint 54. The connection between the head unit 31 and the supply unit 41 is facilitated by the head joint 38 and the first supply joint 54.

[0036] When the head 32 prints, liquid is supplied from the first tank 45 to the head 32 through the first supply channel 48 and the first head channel 35, and liquid is supplied from the second tank 46 to the head 32 through the second supply channel 49 and the second head channel 36. For example, liquid is supplied to the head 32 due to the head difference between the first tank 45 and the head 32 and the head difference between the second tank 46 and the head 32. By supplying liquid through two channels, namely the channel formed by the first supply channel 48 and the first head channel 35 and the channel formed by the second supply channel 49 and the second head channel 36, the supply amount of liquid increases compared to the case where liquid is supplied through only one of the channels. Therefore, even when the head 32 consumes a large amount of liquid, the supply of liquid is stable.

[0037] When the head 32 does not print, for example, the liquid circulates through the first tank 45, the second tank 46, and the head 32. In this case, the liquid is sent from the second tank 46 to the head 32 through the second supply channel 49 and the second head channel 36, and the liquid is sent from the head 32 to the first tank 45 through the first supply channel 48 and the first head channel 35. By circulating the liquid, sedimentation of the components contained in the liquid is suppressed.

[0038] The third supply channel 50, the fourth supply channel 51, and the fifth supply channel 52 each have a gas channel portion 55. In this example, the gas channel portion 55 includes a channel formed by a groove engraved in the plate. The gas channel portion 55 may include, for example, an elastic tube or a rigid pipe.

[0039] The third supply channel 50, the fourth supply channel 51, and the fifth supply channel 52 have joints. The third supply channel 50, the fourth supply channel 51, and the fifth supply channel 52 have a common second supply joint 56. The second supply joint 56 is located at one end of the gas channel portion 55. The second supply joint 56 constitutes one end of the third supply channel 50, one end of the fourth supply channel 51, and one end of the fifth supply channel 52. The third supply channel 50, the fourth supply channel 51, and the fifth supply channel 52 may each have an individual joint.

[0040] The third supply channel 50 extends from the first tank 45. The third supply channel 50 extends from the upper part of the first tank 45. The third supply channel 50 is a channel that connects the first tank 45 to the selector unit 141. The second supply joint 56 is located at the tip of the third supply channel 50.

[0041] The fourth supply channel 51 extends from the second tank 46. The fourth supply channel 51 extends from the upper part of the second tank 46. The fourth supply channel 51 is a channel that connects the second tank 46 to the selector unit 141. The second supply joint 56 is located at the tip of the fourth supply channel 51.

[0042] The fifth supply channel 52 extends from a pressurizing section 57 described later. The fifth supply channel 52 is a channel that connects the pressurizing section 57 to the selector unit 141. A second supply joint 56 is located at the tip of the fifth supply channel 52.

[0043] The supply unit 41 has a pressurizing section 57. The pressurizing section 57 is configured to pressurize the liquid in the head 32. The pressurizing section 57 is, for example, a diaphragm pump. The pressurizing section 57 has, for example, a flexible diaphragm and a spring that presses against the flexible diaphragm.

[0044] The pressurizing section 57 is located in the first supply channel 48. By driving the pressurizing section 57, the liquid in the head 32 is pressurized through the first supply channel 48 and the first head channel 35. As a result, the liquid is forcefully discharged from the nozzle 33. As the liquid is forcefully discharged from the nozzle 33, air bubbles, foreign matter, etc. in the head 32 are discharged. In this example, causing the liquid to be forcefully discharged from the nozzle 33 by the pressurizing section 57 is referred to as cleaning.

[0045] The supply unit 41 has a liquid volume sensor 58. The liquid volume sensor 58 is located, for example, in the first tank 45. The liquid volume sensor 58 detects, for example, the liquid level of the liquid stored in the first tank 45. Thereby, the liquid discharge device 11 grasps the amount of the liquid stored in the first tank 45.

[0046] The supply unit 41 has a filter 59. The filter 59 is located, for example, in the second tank 46. The filter 59 is located at the connection point with the second supply channel 49 in the second tank 46. The filter 59 collects foreign matter from the liquid flowing from the second tank 46 to the second supply channel 49.

[0047] The supply unit 41 has one or more on-off valves. The supply unit 41 has, for example, a first supply valve 60, a second supply valve 61, and a third supply valve 62 as on-off valves. The first supply valve 60 is located in the first supply flow path 48. Specifically, the first supply valve 60 is located between the first tank 45 and the pressurizing section 57 in the first supply flow path 48. When the first supply valve 60 opens, liquid can flow through the first supply flow path 48.

[0048] The second supply valve 61 is located in the second supply flow path 49. When the second supply valve 61 opens, liquid can flow through the second supply flow path 49. The third supply valve 62 is located in the first tank 45. Specifically, the third supply valve 62 is located at the connection point with the holder 42 in the first tank 45. When the third supply valve 62 opens, liquid can flow from the liquid container 43 into the first tank 45.

[0049] The supply unit 41 has one or more moisture permeable membranes. The moisture permeable membrane is a membrane through which gas easily passes while liquid hardly passes. The supply unit 41 has a first supply membrane 63 and a second supply membrane 64 as the moisture permeable membranes.

[0050] The first supply membrane 63 is located in the third supply flow path 50. The first supply membrane 63 reduces the possibility of liquid flowing through the third supply flow path 50. The first supply membrane 63 reduces the possibility of liquid flowing from the first tank 45 to the selector unit 141.

[0051] The second supply membrane 64 is located in the fourth supply flow path 51. The second supply membrane 64 reduces the possibility of liquid flowing through the fourth supply flow path 51. The second supply membrane 64 reduces the possibility of liquid flowing from the second tank 46 to the selector unit 141.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 8, and 9, the supply unit 41 has a tray. The supply unit 41 has a supply tray 65. The supply tray 65 is located at the lower part in the supply unit 41. The supply tray 65 receives the liquid leaked in the supply unit 41. The supply tray 65 receives, for example, the liquid leaked from the liquid container 43, the liquid leaked from the first tank 45, and the liquid leaked from the second tank 46. By the supply tray 65 receiving the liquid, the possibility that the liquid leaked in the supply unit 41 spreads into the housing 12 is reduced.

[0053] The supply unit 41 has a detection unit. The supply unit 41 has a supply detection unit 66. The supply detection unit 66 is located on the supply tray 65. The supply detection unit 66 detects the liquid received by the supply tray 65. The supply detection unit 66 detects the liquid, for example, by touching the liquid. By the supply detection unit 66 detecting the liquid, the liquid ejection device 11 grasps that the liquid is leaking in the supply unit 41. The liquid ejection device 11 notifies the user that the liquid is leaking in the supply unit 41, for example, based on the detection result of the supply detection unit 66.

[0054] In FIG. 8, eight liquid flow path portions 53 are shown. This is because the supply unit 41 of this example supplies four types of liquid to the head 32. In the supply unit 41, one first supply flow path 48 and one second supply flow path 49 are prepared for each liquid container 43 mounted on the holder 42.

[0055] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a tray. The liquid ejection device 11 includes a device tray 67 separately from the supply tray 65. The device tray 67 is located below the supply tray 65. The device tray 67 is configured to receive the liquid received by the supply tray 65.

[0056] The device tray 67 has a connection portion 68. The device tray 67 is connected to the supply tray 65 by the connection portion 68. The connection portion 68 is a portion that extends toward the supply tray 65 in the device tray 67. The connection portion 68 vertically overlaps the supply tray 65. The connection portion 68 receives the liquid dripping from the supply tray 65. In this way, the device tray 67 receives the liquid received by the supply tray 65.

[0057] If liquid leaks from the liquid container 43, there is a possibility that the supply tray 65 alone may not be able to receive all the liquid. Therefore, in this example, when the supply tray 65 receives a liquid amount equal to or more than a predetermined amount, the liquid flows from the supply tray 65 to the device tray 67. By the device tray 67 receiving the liquid, the possibility of the leaked liquid spreading inside the housing 12 in the supply unit 41 is reduced.

[0058] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a detection unit. The liquid ejection device 11 includes a leakage detection unit 69 separately from the supply detection unit 66. The leakage detection unit 69 has, for example, the same configuration as the supply detection unit 66. The leakage detection unit 69 is located on the device tray 67. The leakage detection unit 69 detects the liquid received by the device tray 67. By the leakage detection unit 69 detecting the liquid, the liquid ejection device 11 grasps that a large amount of liquid is leaking in the supply unit 41. The liquid ejection device 11 notifies the user that a large amount of liquid is leaking in the supply unit 41, for example, based on the detection result of the leakage detection unit 69.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 7, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a supply fixing member 70 as an example of a fixing member. The supply fixing member 70 fixes the supply unit 41 to the housing 12. The supply fixing member 70 is attached to, for example, the supply tray 65. Thereby, the supply tray 65 is fixed to the housing 12. When the supply fixing member 70 is removed from the supply tray 65, it becomes possible to remove the supply unit 41 from the housing 12. The supply unit 41 is removable through the exposure port 25.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a maintenance unit 71. The maintenance unit 71 is a unit for maintaining the head 32. The maintenance unit 71 has a moisturizing liquid tank 72. The moisturizing liquid tank 72 is configured to store a liquid. The moisturizing liquid tank 72 stores a moisturizing liquid as the liquid. The moisturizing liquid is used to moisturize the nozzle 33. The moisturizing liquid is, for example, water.

[0061] The maintenance unit 71 has a buffer tank 73. The buffer tank 73 is configured to store a liquid. The buffer tank 73 stores waste liquid as the liquid. The waste liquid is the liquid discharged from the head 32. The waste liquid is, for example, the liquid discharged from the head 32 by cleaning. The waste liquid is, for example, the liquid discharged from the head 32 by flushing. Flushing is an operation in which the head 32 appropriately discharges a liquid to prevent clogging of the nozzle 33.

[0062] The maintenance unit 71 has a first maintenance flow path 74, a second maintenance flow path 75, a third maintenance flow path 76, a fourth maintenance flow path 77, and a fifth maintenance flow path 78. The first maintenance flow path 74 is a flow path through which gas flows. The second maintenance flow path 75, the third maintenance flow path 76, the fourth maintenance flow path 77, and the fifth maintenance flow path 78 are flow paths through which mainly liquid flows.

[0063] The first maintenance flow path 74 is connected to the selector unit 141. The second maintenance flow path 75, the third maintenance flow path 76, and the fourth maintenance flow path 77 are connected to the cap unit 111. The fifth maintenance flow path 78 is connected to the wiping unit 131.

[0064] The first maintenance flow path 74, the second maintenance flow path 75, the third maintenance flow path 76, the fourth maintenance flow path 77, and the fifth maintenance flow path 78 each have a maintenance flow path portion 79. In this example, the maintenance flow path portion 79 includes an elastic tube. The maintenance flow path portion 79 may include, for example, a rigid pipe or a flow path formed by a groove engraved in a plate.

[0065] The first maintenance flow path 74, the second maintenance flow path 75, the third maintenance flow path 76, the fourth maintenance flow path 77, and the fifth maintenance flow path 78 have joints. The first maintenance flow path 74, the second maintenance flow path 75, the third maintenance flow path 76, the fourth maintenance flow path 77, and the fifth maintenance flow path 78 have a common maintenance joint 80. The maintenance joint 80 is located at one end of the maintenance flow path portion 79. The maintenance joint 80 constitutes one end of the first maintenance flow path 74, one end of the second maintenance flow path 75, one end of the third maintenance flow path 76, one end of the fourth maintenance flow path 77, and one end of the fifth maintenance flow path 78. The first maintenance flow path 74, the second maintenance flow path 75, the third maintenance flow path 76, the fourth maintenance flow path 77, and the fifth maintenance flow path 78 may each have a separate joint.

[0066] The first maintenance flow path 74 extends from the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The first maintenance flow path 74 extends from the upper part of the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The first maintenance flow path 74 is a flow path connecting the moisturizing liquid tank 72 to the selector unit 141. The maintenance joint 80 is located at the tip of the first maintenance flow path 74.

[0067] The second maintenance flow path 75 extends from the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The second maintenance flow path 75 extends from the upper part of the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The second maintenance flow path 75 is a flow path connecting the moisturizing liquid tank 72 to the cap unit 111. The maintenance joint 80 is located at the tip of the second maintenance flow path 75.

[0068] The third maintenance channel 76 extends from the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The third maintenance channel 76 extends from the upper part of the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The third maintenance channel 76 is a channel that connects the moisturizing liquid tank 72 to the cap unit 111. A maintenance joint 80 is located at the tip of the third maintenance channel 76.

[0069] The third maintenance channel 76 has a branch portion 81. The branch portion 81 is a portion that branches between the moisturizing liquid tank 72 and the maintenance joint 80 in the third maintenance channel 76. The branch portion 81 is connected to a mounting body 103 that is mounted on the mounting unit 101. Therefore, the third maintenance channel 76 is also a channel that connects the moisturizing liquid tank 72 to the mounting body 103 and is also a channel that connects the mounting body 103 and the cap unit 111.

[0070] The fourth maintenance channel 77 extends from the buffer tank 73. The fourth maintenance channel 77 extends from the upper part of the buffer tank 73. The fourth maintenance channel 77 is a channel that connects the buffer tank 73 to the cap unit 111. A maintenance joint 80 is located at the tip of the fourth maintenance channel 77.

[0071] The fifth maintenance channel 78 is connected to a mounting body 103 that is mounted on the mounting unit 101. The fifth maintenance channel 78 extends from the mounting body 103. Therefore, the fifth maintenance channel 78 is a channel that connects the mounting body 103 and the wiping unit 131. That is, the mounting body 103 is connected to the wiping unit 131 via the maintenance unit 71. A maintenance joint 80 is located at the tip of the fifth maintenance channel 78.

[0072] The fifth maintenance channel 78 has a branching portion 82. The branching portion 82 is a portion that branches between the mounting body 103 and the maintenance joint 80 in the fifth maintenance channel 78. The branching portion 82 is connected to the buffer tank 73. Therefore, the fifth maintenance channel 78 is also a channel that connects the buffer tank 73 to the mounting body 103 and is also a channel that connects the buffer tank 73 to the wiping unit 131.

[0073] The maintenance unit 71 has a moisturizing liquid amount sensor 83. The moisturizing liquid amount sensor 83 is located, for example, inside the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The moisturizing liquid amount sensor 83 detects, for example, the liquid level of the liquid stored in the moisturizing liquid tank 72. Thereby, the liquid discharge device 11 grasps the amount of the moisturizing liquid stored in the moisturizing liquid tank 72.

[0074] The maintenance unit 71 has a moisture permeable membrane. The maintenance unit 71 has a maintenance membrane 84 as the moisture permeable membrane. The maintenance membrane 84 is located, for example, inside the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The maintenance membrane 84 is located at the connection point with the first maintenance channel 74 in the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The maintenance membrane 84 reduces the possibility of the moisturizing liquid flowing through the first maintenance channel 74. The maintenance membrane 84 reduces the possibility of the moisturizing liquid flowing from the moisturizing liquid tank 72 to the selector unit 141.

[0075] The maintenance unit 71 has a plurality of valves. The maintenance unit 71 has, for example, one or more on-off valves and one or more one-way valves. In this example, the maintenance unit 71 has a first maintenance valve 85 as the on-off valve. The maintenance unit 71 has a second maintenance valve 86, a third maintenance valve 87, and a fourth maintenance valve 88 as the one-way valves.

[0076] The first maintenance valve 85 is located, for example, in the third maintenance channel 76. The first maintenance valve 85 is located at the branching portion 81 in the third maintenance channel 76. When the first maintenance valve 85 opens, the moisturizing liquid can flow through the branching portion 81.

[0077] The second maintenance valve 86 is located in, for example, the second maintenance flow path 75. The second maintenance valve 86 allows the moisturizing liquid to flow through the second maintenance flow path 75 from the cap unit 111 toward the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The second maintenance valve 86 restricts the moisturizing liquid from flowing through the second maintenance flow path 75 from the moisturizing liquid tank 72 toward the cap unit 111.

[0078] The third maintenance valve 87 is located in, for example, the third maintenance flow path 76. The third maintenance valve 87 is located at a portion different from the branch portion 81 in the third maintenance flow path 76. The third maintenance valve 87 is located between the branch position of the branch portion 81 and the moisturizing liquid tank 72 in the third maintenance flow path 76. The third maintenance valve 87 allows the moisturizing liquid to flow through the third maintenance flow path 76 from the moisturizing liquid tank 72 toward the branch position of the branch portion 81. The third maintenance valve 87 restricts the moisturizing liquid from flowing through the third maintenance flow path 76 from the branch position of the branch portion 81 toward the moisturizing liquid tank 72.

[0079] The fourth maintenance valve 88 is located in, for example, the third maintenance flow path 76. The fourth maintenance valve 88 is located at the branch portion 81 in the third maintenance flow path 76. The fourth maintenance valve 88 is located between the mounting body 103 and the first maintenance valve 85 at the branch portion 81. The fourth maintenance valve 88 allows the moisturizing liquid to flow through the third maintenance flow path 76 from the mounting body 103 toward the branch position of the branch portion 81. The fourth maintenance valve 88 restricts the moisturizing liquid from flowing through the third maintenance flow path 76 from the branch position of the branch portion 81 toward the mounting body 103.

[0080] The maintenance unit 71 has one or more suction pumps. The maintenance unit 71 has, as suction pumps, a first maintenance pump 89, a second maintenance pump 90, and a third maintenance pump 91.

[0081] The first maintenance pump 89 is located in the third maintenance flow path 76. The first maintenance pump 89 is located at a portion different from the branch portion 81 in the third maintenance flow path 76. The first maintenance pump 89 is located between the branch position of the branch portion 81 and the maintenance joint 80. By driving the first maintenance pump 89, the moisturizing liquid is sent from the moisturizing liquid tank 72 or the mounting body 103 to the cap unit 111.

[0082] The second maintenance pump 90 is located in the fifth maintenance flow path 78. The second maintenance pump 90 is located at the branch position of the branch portion 82 in the fifth maintenance flow path 78. By driving the second maintenance pump 90, the waste liquid is sent from the wiping unit 131 or the buffer tank 73 to the mounting body 103.

[0083] The third maintenance pump 91 is connected to the buffer tank 73. In this example, two third maintenance pumps 91 are connected to the buffer tank 73. The third maintenance pump 91 sucks the inside of the buffer tank 73. Thereby, the waste liquid is sent from the cap unit 111 to the buffer tank 73 through the fourth maintenance flow path 77.

[0084] As shown in FIGS. 6, 10, and 11, the maintenance unit 71 has a tray. The maintenance unit 71 has a maintenance tray 92. The maintenance tray 92 is located at the lower part in the maintenance unit 71.

[0085] The maintenance tray 92 receives the liquid leaked in the maintenance unit 71, that is, the waste liquid or the moisturizing liquid. The maintenance tray 92 receives, for example, the waste liquid leaked from the buffer tank 73. The maintenance tray 92 receives, for example, the moisturizing liquid leaked from the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The maintenance tray 92 reduces the risk that the waste liquid and the leaked moisturizing liquid in the maintenance unit 71 spread into the housing 12.

[0086] The maintenance unit 71 has a detection unit. The maintenance unit 71 has a maintenance detection unit 93. The maintenance detection unit 93 is located on the maintenance tray 92.

[0087] The maintenance detection unit 93 detects the liquid received by the maintenance tray 92, that is, the waste liquid or the moisturizing liquid. The maintenance detection unit 93 has, for example, the same configuration as the supply detection unit 66 and the leakage detection unit 69. When the maintenance detection unit 93 detects the waste liquid or the moisturizing liquid, the liquid ejection device 11 grasps that the waste liquid or the moisturizing liquid is leaking in the maintenance unit 71. The liquid ejection device 11 notifies the user, for example, based on the detection result of the maintenance detection unit 93 that the waste liquid or the moisturizing liquid is leaking in the maintenance unit 71.

[0088] In the maintenance unit 71, the third maintenance pump 91 may exhaust toward the maintenance tray 92. In this case, when the amount of the waste liquid stored in the buffer tank 73 approaches the maximum capacity of the buffer tank 73, the waste liquid is discharged to the maintenance tray 92 through the third maintenance pump 91. When the maintenance detection unit 93 detects this waste liquid, the liquid ejection device 11 can grasp that the amount of the waste liquid stored in the buffer tank 73 has approached the maximum capacity of the buffer tank 73.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 10, the maintenance unit 71 has a connector 94. The connector 94 is a portion connected to the mounting body 103. The connector 94 constitutes the third maintenance flow path 76 and the fifth maintenance flow path 78.

[0090] The connector 94 has a connection pin 95 and a supply pin 96. The connection pin 95 and the supply pin 96 are connected to the mounting body 103. The connection pin 95 constitutes the fifth maintenance flow path 78. The supply pin 96 constitutes the third maintenance flow path 76. Specifically, the supply pin 96 constitutes the branch portion 81.

[0091] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a maintenance fixing member 97 as an example of a fixing member. The maintenance fixing member 97 fixes the maintenance unit 71 to the housing 12. The maintenance fixing member 97 is attached to, for example, the maintenance tray 92. Thereby, the maintenance tray 92 is fixed to the housing 12. When the maintenance fixing member 97 is removed from the maintenance unit 71, the maintenance unit 71 can be removed from the housing 12. The maintenance unit 71 is removable through the exposure port 25.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a mounting unit 101. The mounting unit 101 is a unit configured to be able to mount a mounting body 103 that stores the liquid discharged as waste liquid from the head 32. In this example, the mounting body 103 stores not only waste liquid but also a moisturizing liquid.

[0093] The mounting unit 101 has a mounting portion 102. The mounting portion 102 is configured to be able to mount the mounting body 103. The mounting body 103 is mounted on the mounting portion 102 by being inserted into the mounting portion 102.

[0094] When the mounting body 103 is mounted on the mounting portion 102, it is connected to the connection needle 95 and the supply needle 96. The mounting body 103 is exchanged, for example, through the lead-out surface 21. The mounting body 103 can be exchanged by opening the open cover 23.

[0095] The mounting body 103 has a waste liquid chamber 104 and a moisturizing liquid chamber 105. The waste liquid chamber 104 is a space for storing waste liquid. The waste liquid chamber 104 is connected to the connection needle 95. That is, the waste liquid chamber 104 is connected to the fifth maintenance flow path 78. The moisturizing liquid chamber 105 is a space for storing a moisturizing liquid. In this example, the moisturizing liquid chamber 105 stores a moisturizing liquid pack 106. The moisturizing liquid pack 106 is a pack that stores a moisturizing liquid. The moisturizing liquid pack 106 is connected to the supply needle 96. That is, the moisturizing liquid pack 106 is connected to the third maintenance flow path 76.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 12, the liquid ejection apparatus 11 includes a mounting and fixing member 107 as an example of a fixing member. The mounting and fixing member 107 fixes the mounting unit 101 to the housing 12. The mounting and fixing member 107 is attached to, for example, the mounting portion 102. Thereby, the mounting unit 101 is fixed to the housing 12. When the mounting and fixing member 107 is removed from the mounting unit 101, the mounting unit 101 can be removed from the housing 12. The mounting unit 101 is removable through the exposure port 25.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid ejection apparatus 11 includes a cap unit 111. The cap unit 111 is a unit for maintaining the head 32. The cap unit 111 has one or more caps 112. The cap 112 contacts the head 32 so as to cover the nozzle 33. The cap 112 covers the nozzle 33 by contacting the nozzle surface 34. In this example, covering the nozzle 33 with the cap 112 is referred to as capping.

[0098] The cap 112 moisturizes the nozzle 33 by capping. Further, the cap 112 receives waste liquid from the head 32. The cap 112 receives, for example, waste liquid by cleaning and waste liquid by flushing. Thereby, the cap 112 maintains the head 32.

[0099] The cap 112 is displaceable between a position in contact with the head 32 and a position away from the head 32. When the head 32 is not printing, the cap 112 is displaced to a position in contact with the head 32. The position in contact with the head 32 is, for example, a position between the head 32 and the conveyance belt 16. When the head 32 is printing, the cap 112 is displaced to a position away from the head 32.

[0100] The cap unit 111 has a moisture permeable membrane. As the moisture permeable membrane, the cap unit 111 has a cap membrane 113. The cap membrane 113 is located within the cap 112. The cap membrane 113 partitions the interior of the cap 112 into a waste liquid space 114 and a moisturizing liquid space 115.

[0101] The waste liquid space 114 is a space for receiving waste liquid from the head 32. The moisturizing liquid space 115 is a space for holding the moisturizing liquid. The nozzle 33 is moisturized by the moisturizing liquid vaporized in the moisturizing liquid space 115 filling the waste liquid space 114 through the cap membrane 113.

[0102] The cap unit 111 has a first cap flow path 116, a second cap flow path 117, and a third cap flow path 118. The first cap flow path 116, the second cap flow path 117, and the third cap flow path 118 are mainly flow paths through which liquid flows. The first cap flow path 116, the second cap flow path 117, and the third cap flow path 118 are connected to the maintenance unit 71.

[0103] The first cap flow path 116, the second cap flow path 117, and the third cap flow path 118 each have a cap flow path portion 119. The cap flow path portion 119 includes, for example, an elastic tube. The cap flow path portion 119 may include a rigid pipe or a flow path formed by a groove engraved on a plate.

[0104] The first cap flow path 116 extends from the cap 112. Specifically, the first cap flow path 116 extends from the waste liquid space 114. The first cap flow path 116 is a flow path that connects the cap 112 to the maintenance unit 71.

[0105] The second cap flow path 117 extends from the cap 112. Specifically, the second cap flow path 117 extends from the moisturizing liquid space 115. The second cap flow path 117 is a flow path that connects the cap 112 to the maintenance unit 71.

[0106] The third cap flow path 118 extends from the cap 112. Specifically, the third cap flow path 118 extends from the moisturizing liquid space 115. The third cap flow path 118 is a flow path that connects the cap 112 to the maintenance unit 71.

[0107] As shown in FIGS. 13, 14, and 15, the cap unit 111 has a discharge member 121. The discharge member 121 is a member that discharges the liquid leaked in the cap unit 111, that is, the leaked waste liquid or the leaked moisturizing liquid, to the maintenance tray 92. The discharge member 121 is, for example, a frame that extends from the cap 112 toward the maintenance tray 92. The leaked waste liquid or the leaked moisturizing liquid in the cap unit 111 flows from the cap unit 111 to the maintenance tray 92 by flowing along the discharge member 121.

[0108] As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid discharge device 11 includes a wiping unit 131. The wiping unit 131 is a unit that maintains the head 32. The wiping unit 131 has a wiping part 132. The wiping part 132 wipes the nozzle surface 34 by contacting the nozzle surface 34. Thereby, the wiping part 132 removes the liquid adhering to the nozzle surface 34. The wiping part 132 is, for example, a rubber blade. The wiping part 132 wipes the nozzle surface 34 by moving in a state of contacting the nozzle surface 34. In this example, the wiping of the nozzle surface 34 by the wiping part 132 is referred to as wiping.

[0109] The wiping unit 131 has a cleaner 133. The cleaner 133 is a member that cleans the wiping part 132. When the wiping part 132 wipes, liquid adheres to the wiping part 132. The cleaner 133 collects the liquid adhering to the wiping part 132. Thereby, the wiping part 132 can wipe in a state where no liquid adheres to itself. The cleaner 133 stores the liquid as waste liquid, for example, by collecting the liquid from the wiping part 132.

[0110] The wiping unit 131 has a wiping flow path 134. The wiping flow path 134 is mainly a flow path through which a liquid flows. The wiping flow path 134 is connected to the maintenance unit 71. The wiping flow path 134 has a wiping flow path portion 135. The wiping flow path portion 135 includes, for example, an elastic tube. The wiping flow path portion 135 may include a rigid pipe or a flow path formed by a groove engraved in a plate.

[0111] The wiping flow path 134 extends, for example, from the wiping portion 132. The wiping flow path 134 is a flow path that connects the wiping portion 132 to the maintenance unit 71. Waste liquid wiped by the wiping portion 132 flows through the wiping flow path 134. The wiping flow path 134 may extend from the cleaner 133. In this case, waste liquid collected by the cleaner 133 flows through the wiping flow path 134.

[0112] As shown in FIGS. 13, 14, and 15, the wiping unit 131 has a guide member 136. The guide member 136 is a member that guides liquid leaked in the wiping unit 131 to the maintenance tray 92. The liquid leaked in the wiping unit 131 is, for example, liquid that has flowed down from the wiping portion 132, liquid that has splashed when the wiping portion 132 wipes the nozzle surface 34, liquid that has leaked from the cleaner 133, and the like. The guide member 136 is, for example, a frame that extends from the cleaner 133 and the wiping portion 132 toward the maintenance tray 92. The liquid leaked in the wiping unit 131 flows from the wiping unit 131 to the maintenance tray 92 by flowing along the guide member 136.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a selector unit 141. The selector unit 141 is a unit configured to be able to select a unit to be opened to the atmosphere among the supply unit 41 and the maintenance unit 71. That is, the selector unit 141 can open the supply unit 41 to the atmosphere or open the maintenance unit 71 to the atmosphere.

[0114] The selector unit 141 has a selector valve 142. The selector valve 142 is connected to the supply unit 41 and the maintenance unit 71. By opening and closing the selector valve 142, the unit to be opened to the atmosphere is selected from the supply unit 41 and the maintenance unit 71.

[0115] The selector unit 141 has a pressure reducing pump 143. The pressure reducing pump 143 reduces the pressure of other units connected to the selector unit 141. For example, the pressure reducing pump 143 reduces the pressure of the supply unit 41. For example, the pressure reducing pump 143 reduces the pressure of the maintenance unit 71.

[0116] The selector unit 141 has a pressure sensor 144. The pressure sensor 144 detects the pressure inside the selector valve 142. The selector unit 141 controls the selector valve 142 and the pressure reducing pump 143 based on the detection result of the pressure sensor 144.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 16, the selector unit 141 has a support frame 145 that supports the selector valve 142. In this example, the selector valve 142 and the pressure reducing pump 143 are mounted on the support frame 145.

[0118] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a selector fixing member 146 as an example of a fixing member. The selector fixing member 146 fixes the selector unit 141 to the housing 12. The selector fixing member 146 is attached to the support frame 145, for example. Thereby, the selector unit 141 is fixed to the housing 12. When the selector fixing member 146 is removed, the selector unit 141 can be removed from the housing 12. The selector unit 141 is removable through the exposure port 25.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid ejection device 11 includes one or more connection channels. The connection channels are channels that connect two of the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. In this example, the connection channels include a channel that connects the supply unit 41 and the selector unit 141, and a channel that connects the maintenance unit 71 and the selector unit 141.

[0120] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a first connection channel 151, a second connection channel 152, a third connection channel 153, and a fourth connection channel 154. The first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154 are channels through which gas flows. The first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154 are connected to a selector valve 142. The first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154 can be opened and closed by the selector valve 142.

[0121] The first connection channel 151 is a channel that connects the selector unit 141 and the supply unit 41. The second connection channel 152 is a channel that connects the selector unit 141 and the supply unit 41. The third connection channel 153 is a channel that connects the selector unit 141 and the supply unit 41. The fourth connection channel 154 is a channel that connects the selector unit 141 and the maintenance unit 71. The selector unit 141 opens the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, or both to the atmosphere through the first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154.

[0122] The first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, and the third connection channel 153 each have a first channel portion 155. The first channel portion 155 includes, for example, an elastic tube. The first channel portion 155 may include a rigid pipe or a channel formed by a groove engraved in a plate.

[0123] The first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, and the third connection channel 153 have joints. The first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, and the third connection channel 153 have a common first connection joint 156. The first connection joint 156 is located at one end of the first channel portion 155. The first connection joint 156 constitutes one end of the first connection channel 151, one end of the second connection channel 152, and one end of the third connection channel 153. The first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, and the third connection channel 153 may each have a separate joint.

[0124] The first connection joint 156 is connected to the second supply joint 56. Thereby, the first connection channel 151 is connected to the third supply channel 50. The second connection channel 152 is connected to the fourth supply channel 51. The third connection channel 153 is connected to the fifth supply channel 52. Therefore, the first connection channel 151 connects the selector valve 142 and the first tank 45. The second connection channel 152 connects the selector valve 142 and the second tank 46. The third connection channel 153 connects the selector valve 142 and the pressurizing unit 57.

[0125] The first channel portion 155 may be directly connected to the second supply joint 56. The gas channel portion 55 may be directly connected to the first connection joint 156. The second supply joint 56 and the first connection joint 156 simplify the connection of the first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, and the third connection channel 153 to the supply unit 41. That is, the second supply joint 56 and the first connection joint 156 simplify the connection between the supply unit 41 and the selector unit 141.

[0126] When the first connection channel 151 is opened by the selector valve 142, the first tank 45 is opened to the atmosphere. When the second connection channel 152 is opened by the selector valve 142, the second tank 46 is opened to the atmosphere. When the third connection channel 153 is opened by the selector valve 142, the pressurizing unit 57 is opened to the atmosphere.

[0127] When the vacuum pump 143 is driven, the first tank 45 is depressurized through the first connection channel 151. As a result, for example, liquid flows from the head 32 to the first tank 45 through the first supply channel 48. When the vacuum pump 143 is driven, the second tank 46 is depressurized through the second connection channel 152. As a result, for example, liquid flows from the first tank 45 to the second tank 46 through the tank valve 47. When the vacuum pump 143 is driven, the pressurizing section 57 is depressurized through the third connection channel 153. Then, when the pressurizing section 57 is opened to the atmosphere through the third connection channel 153, the pressurizing section 57 pressurizes the liquid in the head 32. In this way, the vacuum pump 143 drives the pressurizing section 57.

[0128] The fourth connection channel 154 has a second channel portion 157. The second channel portion 157 includes, for example, an elastic tube. The second channel portion 157 may include a rigid pipe or may include a channel formed by a groove engraved on a plate.

[0129] The fourth connection channel 154 has a joint. The fourth connection channel 154 has a second connection joint 158. The second connection joint 158 is located at one end of the second channel portion 157. The second connection joint 158 constitutes one end of the fourth connection channel 154.

[0130] The second connection joint 158 is connected to the maintenance joint 80. As a result, the fourth connection channel 154 is connected to the first maintenance channel 74. Therefore, the fourth connection channel 154 connects the selector valve 142 and the moisturizing liquid tank 72.

[0131] The second channel portion 157 may be directly connected to the maintenance joint 80. The maintenance channel portion 79 may be directly connected to the second connection joint 158. The maintenance joint 80 and the second connection joint 158 simplify the connection of the fourth connection channel 154 to the maintenance unit 71. That is, the maintenance joint 80 and the second connection joint 158 simplify the connection between the maintenance unit 71 and the selector unit 141.

[0132] When the fourth connection channel 154 is opened by the selector valve 142, the moisturizing liquid tank 72 is opened to the atmosphere. When the decompression pump 143 is driven, the moisturizing liquid tank 72 is decompressed through the fourth connection channel 154. As a result, for example, the moisturizing liquid flows from the cap 112 to the moisturizing liquid tank 72 through the second maintenance channel 75.

[0133] The first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154 may have joints not only at one end but also at both ends. In this case, the connection of the first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154 to the selector unit 141 becomes easier. As a result, the connection between the selector unit 141 and other units becomes easier.

[0134] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a first relay channel 161, a second relay channel 162, a third relay channel 163, and a fourth relay channel 164. The first relay channel 161, the second relay channel 162, the third relay channel 163, and the fourth relay channel 164 are mainly channels through which liquid flows.

[0135] The first relay channel 161 is a channel that connects the maintenance unit 71 and the wiping unit 131. The second relay channel 162, the third relay channel 163, and the fourth relay channel 164 are channels that connect the maintenance unit 71 and the cap unit 111.

[0136] The first relay channel 161, the second relay channel 162, the third relay channel 163, and the fourth relay channel 164 each have a relay channel portion 165. The relay channel portion 165 includes, for example, an elastic tube. The relay channel portion 165 may include a rigid pipe or may include a channel formed by a groove engraved in a plate.

[0137] The first relay path 161, the second relay path 162, the third relay path 163, and the fourth relay path 164 have joints. The first relay path 161, the second relay path 162, the third relay path 163, and the fourth relay path 164 have joints at both ends thereof.

[0138] The first relay path 161, the second relay path 162, the third relay path 163, and the fourth relay path 164 have a common second connection joint 158. That is, the first relay path 161, the second relay path 162, the third relay path 163, and the fourth relay path 164 share the fourth connection path 154 and the second connection joint 158. The first relay path 161, the second relay path 162, the third relay path 163, and the fourth relay path 164 have a common relay joint 166.

[0139] The second connection joint 158 is located at one end of the first relay path 161, and the relay joint 166 is located at the other end of the first relay path 161. The second connection joint 158 is located at one end of the second relay path 162, and the relay joint 166 is located at the other end of the second relay path 162. The second connection joint 158 is located at one end of the third relay path 163, and the relay joint 166 is located at the other end of the third relay path 163. The second connection joint 158 is located at one end of the fourth relay path 164, and the relay joint 166 is located at the other end of the fourth relay path 164.

[0140] The second connection joint 158 constitutes one end of the first relay path 161, one end of the second relay path 162, one end of the third relay path 163, and one end of the fourth relay path 164. The relay joint 166 constitutes the other end of the first relay path 161, the other end of the second relay path 162, the other end of the third relay path 163, and the other end of the fourth relay path 164. The first relay path 161, the second relay path 162, the third relay path 163, and the fourth relay path 164 may each have a different joint.

[0141] The second connection joint 158 is connected to the maintenance joint 80. As a result, the first relay flow path 161 is connected to the fifth maintenance flow path 78. The second relay flow path 162 is connected to the fourth maintenance flow path 77. The third relay flow path 163 is connected to the second maintenance flow path 75. The fourth relay flow path 164 is connected to the third maintenance flow path 76.

[0142] The relay joint 166 is connected to the first cap flow path 116, the second cap flow path 117, the third cap flow path 118, and the wiping flow path 134. As a result, the first relay flow path 161 is connected to the wiping flow path 134. The second relay flow path 162 is connected to the first cap flow path 116. The third relay flow path 163 is connected to the second cap flow path 117. The fourth relay flow path 164 is connected to the third cap flow path 118.

[0143] The first relay flow path 161 relays the fifth maintenance flow path 78 and the wiping flow path 134. That is, the first relay flow path 161 connects the maintenance unit 71 and the wiping unit 131. The maintenance unit 71 and the wiping unit 131 are connected via the first relay flow path 161. The first relay flow path 161 connects the wiping portion 132 and the mounting body 103.

[0144] The second relay flow path 162 relays the fourth maintenance flow path 77 and the first cap flow path 116. That is, the second relay flow path 162 connects the maintenance unit 71 and the cap unit 111. The maintenance unit 71 and the cap unit 111 are connected via the second relay flow path 162. The second relay flow path 162 connects the cap 112 and the buffer tank 73.

[0145] The third relay flow path 163 relays the second maintenance flow path 75 and the second cap flow path 117. That is, the third relay flow path 163 connects the maintenance unit 71 and the cap unit 111. The maintenance unit 71 and the cap unit 111 are connected via the third relay flow path 163. The third relay flow path 163 connects the cap 112 and the moisturizing liquid tank 72.

[0146] The fourth relay channel 164 relays the third maintenance channel 76 and the third cap channel 118. That is, the fourth relay channel 164 connects the maintenance unit 71 and the cap unit 111. The maintenance unit 71 and the cap unit 111 are connected via the fourth relay channel 164. The fourth relay channel 164 connects the cap 112 and the moisturizing liquid tank 72. The fourth relay channel 164 connects the cap 112 and the mounting body 103.

[0147] A relay channel portion 165 may be directly connected to the maintenance joint 80. A maintenance channel portion 79 may be directly connected to the second connection joint 158. The maintenance joint 80 and the second connection joint 158 facilitate the attachment and detachment of the maintenance unit 71 and the selector unit 141. Also, the maintenance joint 80 and the second connection joint 158 facilitate the attachment and detachment of the maintenance unit 71 and the cap unit 111. Also, the maintenance joint 80 and the second connection joint 158 facilitate the attachment and detachment of the maintenance unit 71 and the wiping unit 131.

[0148] A cap channel portion 119 may be directly connected to the maintenance joint 80. That is, the maintenance unit 71 may be directly connected to the cap unit 111. Also, a wiping channel portion 135 may be directly connected to the maintenance joint 80. That is, the maintenance unit 71 may be directly connected to the wiping unit 131. In such a case, the relay channel becomes unnecessary.

[0149] As shown in FIG. 16, in this example, two second connection channels 152 extend from the selector valve 142. This is because one second connection channel 152 corresponds to two liquid containers 43. That is, one second connection channel 152 is connected to two second tanks 46. The first connection channel 151 is connected to four first tanks 45.

[0150] As shown in FIG. 17, in this example, the second connection joint 158 and the relay joint 166 are connected by six relay channel portions 165. Three of the six relay channel portions 165 respectively constitute the second relay channels 162. That is, in this example, the selector unit 141 has three second relay channels 162. Therefore, in this example, the cap unit 111 has three first cap channels 116. The three first cap channels 116 may be connected to one cap 112, or may be respectively connected to different caps 112. The remaining three relay channel portions 165 respectively constitute the first relay channel 161, the third relay channel 163, and the fourth relay channel 164.

[0151] Next, the replacement of the units will be described. The supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 can be replaced through the exposure port 25. That is, the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 can be replaced through one opening. By aggregating the openings through which the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 are taken out at the exposure port 25, the working efficiency of the operator for replacing the units is improved. In this example, in addition to the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141, the mounting unit 101 can also be replaced through the exposure port 25. The operator replaces the unit by taking out the unit from the exposure port 25 and then inserting a new unit through the exposure port 25.

[0152] As shown in FIG. 18, the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 are exposed from the exposure port 25. When viewing the exposure port 25 from a position facing the opening surface 22, the supply unit 41 is arranged side by side with the selector unit 141 left and right. The supply unit 41 is arranged side by side with the maintenance unit 71 left and right and is located above the maintenance unit 71. The maintenance unit 71 is located below the selector unit 141.

[0153] When viewed from the position facing the opening surface 22, the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 are positioned such that they do not overlap with each other. Therefore, when removing one of the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 from the exposure port 25, one unit does not interfere with the other units. For example, when removing the supply unit 41 from the exposure port 25, the supply unit 41 does not interfere with the maintenance unit 71 and the selector unit 141. As a result, it is not necessary to remove other units in order to remove one unit. Therefore, the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 can be individually removed from the exposure port 25. Thus, the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 are easy to replace.

[0154] The mounting unit 101 is exposed from the exposure port 25. When viewed from the position facing the opening surface 22, the mounting unit 101 is aligned horizontally with the maintenance unit 71. The mounting unit 101 is positioned below the supply unit 41.

[0155] When viewed from the position facing the opening surface 22, the mounting unit 101 is positioned so as not to overlap with the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. Therefore, when removing the mounting unit 101 from the exposure port 25, the mounting unit 101 does not interfere with the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. Therefore, the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, the selector unit 141, and the mounting unit 101 can be individually removed from the exposure port 25. Thus, in addition to the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141, the mounting unit 101 is easy to replace.

[0156] One end of the connection flow path is exposed from the exposure port 25. When viewing the exposure port 25 from a position facing the opening surface 22, one end of the connection flow path is exposed. For example, one end of the first connection flow path 151, one end of the second connection flow path 152, and one end of the third connection flow path 153 are exposed from the exposure port 25. Therefore, it is easy to access one end of the first connection flow path 151, one end of the second connection flow path 152, and one end of the third connection flow path 153 from the exposure port 25. As a result, the first connection flow path 151, the second connection flow path 152, and the third connection flow path 153 can be easily removed from the supply unit 41 or the selector unit 141.

[0157] The first connection flow path 151, the second connection flow path 152, and the third connection flow path 153 include a first flow path portion 155 having elasticity. Therefore, the first flow path portion 155 can be deformed. Thus, when removing one unit from the exposure port 25, the first flow path portion 155 can be deformed so that the first connection flow path 151, the second connection flow path 152, and the third connection flow path 153 do not interfere with that unit. For example, when removing the supply unit 41 or the selector unit 141 from the exposure port 25, the first flow path portion 155 can be deformed so that the first connection flow path 151, the second connection flow path 152, and the third connection flow path 153 do not interfere with that unit.

[0158] One end of the fourth connection flow path 154 is exposed from the exposure port 25. Therefore, it is easy to access one end of the fourth connection flow path 154 from the exposure port 25. As a result, the fourth connection flow path 154 can be easily removed from the maintenance unit 71 or the selector unit 141.

[0159] The fourth connection flow path 154 includes a second flow path portion 157 having elasticity. Therefore, the second flow path portion 157 can be deformed. Thus, when removing one unit from the exposure port 25, the second flow path portion 157 can be deformed so that the fourth connection flow path 154 does not interfere with that unit. For example, when removing the maintenance unit 71 or the selector unit 141 from the exposure port 25, the second flow path portion 157 can be deformed so that the fourth connection flow path 154 does not interfere with that unit.

[0160] When removing the fourth connection channel 154 from the maintenance unit 71, the second connection joint 158 may be removed from the maintenance joint 80, or the second channel portion 157 may be removed from the second connection joint 158.

[0161] In this example, not only one end but also both ends of the connection channels are exposed from the exposure port 25. Specifically, both ends of the first connection channel 151, both ends of the second connection channel 152, both ends of the third connection channel 153, and both ends of the fourth connection channel 154 are exposed from the exposure port 25. Therefore, it is easy to access both ends of the first connection channel 151, both ends of the second connection channel 152, both ends of the third connection channel 153, and both ends of the fourth connection channel 154 from the exposure port 25. As a result, it is easy to remove the first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154 from the unit through the exposure port 25.

[0162] By removing both ends of the connection channels from two units through the exposure port 25, even when the first channel portion 155 and the second channel portion 157 do not have elasticity, there is no risk of the connection channels interfering with the unit when removing the unit from the exposure port 25.

[0163] The plurality of fixing members are exposed from the exposure port 25. For example, when viewing the exposure port 25 from a position facing the opening surface 22, the plurality of fixing members are exposed from the exposure port 25. Specifically, the supply fixing member 70, the maintenance fixing member 97, and the selector fixing member 146 are exposed from the exposure port 25. In addition, the mounting fixing member 107 is also exposed from the exposure port 25.

[0164] In this example, the supply tray 65 is exposed from the exposure port 25. Therefore, the supply fixing member 70 attached to the supply tray 65 is exposed from the exposure port 25. In this example, the maintenance tray 92 is exposed from the exposure port 25. Therefore, the maintenance fixing member 97 attached to the maintenance tray 92 is exposed from the exposure port 25.

[0165] In this example, the support frame 145 is exposed from the exposure port 25. Therefore, the selector fixing member 146 attached to the support frame 145 is exposed from the exposure port 25. In this example, the mounting portion 102 is exposed from the exposure port 25. Therefore, the mounting fixing member 107 attached to the mounting portion 102 is exposed from the exposure port 25.

[0166] The supply fixing member 70, the maintenance fixing member 97, the mounting fixing member 107, and the selector fixing member 146 are exposed from the exposure port 25. Therefore, it is easy to access the supply fixing member 70, the maintenance fixing member 97, the mounting fixing member 107, and the selector fixing member 146 from the exposure port 25. Thereby, it is easy to remove the supply fixing member 70, the maintenance fixing member 97, the mounting fixing member 107, and the selector fixing member 146. Therefore, it is easy to replace the unit.

[0167] When the operator removes the supply unit 41 through the exposure port 25, the operator removes the supply fixing member 70. The operator further removes the first supply joint 54 and the head joint 38. The operator further removes the second supply joint 56 and the first connection joint 156. Thereby, the operator can remove the supply unit 41 through the exposure port 25.

[0168] When the operator removes the maintenance unit 71 through the exposure port 25, the operator removes the maintenance fixing member 97. The operator further removes the maintenance joint 80 and the second connection joint 158. The operator further removes the mounting body 103 from the mounting portion 102. Thereby, the operator can remove the maintenance unit 71 through the exposure port 25.

[0169] When the operator removes the selector unit 141 through the exposure port 25, the selector fixing member 146 is removed. The operator further removes the first connection joint 156 and the second supply joint 56. The operator further removes the second flow path portion 157 from the second connection joint 158. Thereby, the operator can remove the selector unit 141 through the exposure port 25. The operator may remove the selector unit 141 through the exposure port 25 by removing the first connection flow path 151, the second connection flow path 152, the third connection flow path 153, and the fourth connection flow path 154 from the selector valve 142. The operator may remove the selector unit 141 through the exposure port 25 by removing the second connection joint 158 and the maintenance joint 80. In this case, the operator removes the relay flow path portion 165 from the second connection joint 158 or the relay joint 166, for example.

[0170] When the operator removes the mounting unit 101 through the exposure port 25, the mounting fixing member 107 is removed. The operator further removes the mounting body 103 from the mounting portion 102. Thereby, the operator can remove the mounting unit 101 through the exposure port 25.

[0171] As shown in FIG. 19, when the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 are removed, the cap unit 111 is exposed from the exposure port 25. That is, when the exposure port 25 is viewed from a position facing the opening surface 22, the cap unit 111 is positioned so as to overlap at least one of the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. When the exposure port 25 is viewed from a position facing the opening surface 22, the cap unit 111 is positioned deeper than the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. Therefore, by removing from the exposure port 25 the unit that overlaps with the cap unit 111 among the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141, access can be obtained to the cap unit 111 from the exposure port 25.

[0172] When the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 are removed, the wiping unit 131 is exposed from the exposure port 25. That is, when the exposure port 25 is viewed from a position facing the opening surface 22, the wiping unit 131 is positioned so as to overlap at least one of the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. When the exposure port 25 is viewed from a position facing the opening surface 22, the wiping unit 131 is positioned deeper than the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. Therefore, by taking out from the exposure port 25 the unit that overlaps with the wiping unit 131 among the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141, access can be made to the wiping unit 131 from the exposure port 25.

[0173] When the exposure port 25 is viewed from a position facing the opening surface 22, the cap unit 111 and the wiping unit 131 are arranged side by side. In this way, when the exposure port 25 is viewed from a position facing the opening surface 22, the cap unit 111 and the wiping unit 131 are positioned so as not to overlap with each other. Therefore, when accessing one of the cap unit 111 and the wiping unit 131 from the exposure port 25, the other unit does not get in the way. As a result, individual access can be made to the cap unit 111 and the wiping unit 131 from the exposure port 25.

[0174] Next, the operation and effects of the above-described embodiment will be described. (1) The exposure port 25 exposes the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. When the exposure port 25 is viewed from a position facing the opening surface 22, the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 are positioned so as not to overlap with each other.

[0175] According to the above configuration, when taking out one of the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 from the exposure port 25, that unit does not interfere with another unit. Therefore, when taking out one unit from the exposure port 25, it is not necessary to take out another unit. That is, the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 can be individually taken out from the exposure port 25. Therefore, the unit can be easily replaced.

[0176] (2) The first connection flow path 151, the second connection flow path 152, and the third connection flow path 153 include a first flow path portion 155 having elasticity. The fourth connection flow path 154 includes a second flow path portion 157 having elasticity. One end of the first connection flow path 151, one end of the second connection flow path 152, one end of the third connection flow path 153, and one end of the fourth connection flow path 154 are exposed from the exposure port 25.

[0177] According to the above configuration, it is easy to access one end of the first connection flow path 151, one end of the second connection flow path 152, one end of the third connection flow path 153, and one end of the fourth connection flow path 154 through the exposure port 25. Therefore, for example, the first connection flow path 151, the second connection flow path 152, the third connection flow path 153, and the fourth connection flow path 154 can be easily removed from one unit. In addition, since the first flow path portion 155 and the second flow path portion 157 have elasticity, they can be deformed. Thereby, when taking out one unit from the exposure port 25, the first flow path portion 155 and the second flow path portion 157 can be deformed so that the first connection flow path 151, the second connection flow path 152, the third connection flow path 153, and the fourth connection flow path 154 do not interfere with the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. Therefore, the unit can be easily replaced.

[0178] (3) Both ends of the first connection flow path 151, both ends of the second connection flow path 152, both ends of the third connection flow path 153, and both ends of the fourth connection flow path 154 are exposed from the exposure port 25. According to the above configuration, it is easy to access both ends of the first connection channel 151, both ends of the second connection channel 152, both ends of the third connection channel 153, and both ends of the fourth connection channel 154 through the exposure port 25. Therefore, for example, it is easy to remove the first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154 from both units. By removing both ends of the first connection channel 151, both ends of the second connection channel 152, both ends of the third connection channel 153, and both ends of the fourth connection channel 154 from the unit, the first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154 can be taken out from the exposure port 25. Thereby, when taking out one unit from the exposure port 25, there is no risk of the first connection channel 151, the second connection channel 152, the third connection channel 153, and the fourth connection channel 154 interfering with the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. Therefore, it is easy to replace the unit.

[0179] (4) When the exposure port 25 is viewed from a position facing the opening surface 22, the cap unit 111 is positioned so as to overlap at least one of the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141.

[0180] According to the above configuration, by removing the unit that overlaps with the cap unit 111, it is possible to access the cap unit 111 from the exposure port 25. That is, through the exposure port 25, in addition to the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141, it is also possible to access the cap unit 111. In this way, the opening for accessing the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 and the opening for accessing the cap unit 111 are aggregated as the exposure port 25. Therefore, the workability when replacing or repairing the unit is improved.

[0181] When viewed from the position facing the opening surface 22, the wiping unit 131 is positioned so as to overlap at least one of the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141.

[0182] According to the above configuration, by removing the unit that overlaps with the wiping unit 131, access can be obtained to the wiping unit 131 from the exposure port 25. That is, through the exposure port 25, in addition to the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141, access can also be obtained to the wiping unit 131. In this way, the opening through which access can be obtained to the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141, and the opening through which access can be obtained to the wiping unit 131 are aggregated as the exposure port 25. Therefore, the workability when replacing or repairing the unit is good.

[0183] When viewed from the position facing the opening surface 22, the cap unit 111 and the wiping unit 131 are positioned so as not to overlap with each other. According to the above configuration, individual access can be obtained to the cap unit 111 and the wiping unit 131 from the exposure port 25. Therefore, the workability when replacing or repairing the cap unit 111 and the wiping unit 131 is good.

[0184] The exposure port 25 exposes the mounting unit 101. When viewed from the position facing the opening surface 22, the mounting unit 101 is positioned so as not to overlap with the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141.

[0185] According to the above configuration, when removing the mounting unit 101 from the exposure port 25, the mounting unit 101 does not interfere with the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141. That is, the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, the selector unit 141, and the mounting unit 101 can be individually removed from the exposure port 25. Therefore, the units are easy to replace.

[0186] (8) Fixing members such as the supply fixing member 70, the maintenance fixing member 97, and the selector fixing member 146 are exposed from the exposure port 25. In this example, further, the mounting fixing member 107 is exposed from the exposure port 25.

[0187] According to the above configuration, it is easy to remove the fixing member through the exposure port 25. Thereby, when replacing the supply unit 41, the maintenance unit 71, and the selector unit 141 through the exposure port 25, the workability is good. In this example, when replacing the mounting unit 101, the workability is also good.

[0188] (9) The supply unit 41 has a supply tray 65. The supply tray 65 is fixed to the housing 12 by the supply fixing member 70. The supply tray 65 is exposed from the exposure port 25. The supply fixing member 70 is exposed from the exposure port 25. According to the above configuration, it is easy to remove the supply fixing member 70 through the exposure port 25. Thereby, when replacing the supply unit 41 through the exposure port 25, the workability is good.

[0189] (10) The maintenance unit 71 has a maintenance tray 92. The maintenance tray 92 is fixed to the housing 12 by the maintenance fixing member 97. The maintenance tray 92 is exposed from the exposure port 25. The maintenance fixing member 97 is exposed from the exposure port 25.

[0190] According to the above configuration, it is easy to remove the maintenance fixing member 97 through the exposure port 25. Thereby, when replacing the maintenance unit 71 through the exposure port 25, the workability is good.

[0191] (11) The supply detection unit 66 is located on the supply tray 65. The maintenance detection unit 93 is located on the maintenance tray 92. According to the above configuration, the supply detection unit 66 detects the liquid on the supply tray 65. The maintenance detection unit 93 detects the waste liquid in the maintenance tray 92. The maintenance detection unit 93 detects the moisturizing liquid in the maintenance tray 92. Thereby, liquid leakage in the liquid discharge device 11 can be detected.

[0192] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modification examples can be implemented in combination with each other within a technically non - conflicting range. · The liquid discharge device 11 may include a flow path connecting the supply unit 41 and the maintenance unit 71 as a connection flow path. For example, the liquid discharge device 11 may include a connection flow path for directly sending the liquid from the supply unit 41 to the maintenance unit 71 as waste liquid. In this case, at least one end of the connection flow path connecting the supply unit 41 and the maintenance unit 71 may be exposed from the exposure port 25.

[0193] · The liquid discharged by the head 32 is not limited to ink, and may be, for example, a liquid in which particles of a functional material are dispersed or mixed in a liquid. For example, the head 32 may discharge a liquid containing a material such as an electrode material or a pixel material used in the manufacture of a liquid crystal display, an electroluminescence display, and a surface - emitting display in a dispersed or dissolved form.

[0194] The technical idea and its operational effects grasped from the above - described embodiment and modification examples are described below. (A) The liquid ejection device includes a head having a nozzle for ejecting liquid, a supply unit for supplying liquid to the head, a maintenance unit for maintaining the head, a selector unit for selecting a unit to be opened to the atmosphere among the supply unit and the maintenance unit, and a housing for housing the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit. The housing has an opening surface where an exposure port is opened and a cover for closing the exposure port. The exposure port exposes the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit, and when the exposure port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit are positioned so as not to overlap with each other.

[0195] According to the above configuration, when taking out one unit among the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit from the exposure port, that unit does not interfere with another unit. Therefore, when taking out one unit from the exposure port, it is not necessary to take out another unit. That is, the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit can be individually taken out from the exposure port. Therefore, the unit can be easily replaced.

[0196] (B) The liquid ejection device includes a connection flow path connecting two units among the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit. The connection flow path includes a flow path portion having elasticity, and one end of the connection flow path may be exposed from the exposure port.

[0197] According to the above configuration, it is easy to access one end of the connection flow path through the exposure port. Therefore, it is easy to remove the connection flow path from one unit. Since the flow path portion has elasticity, it can be deformed. Thereby, when taking out one unit from the exposure port, the flow path portion can be deformed so that the connection flow path does not interfere with the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit. Therefore, the unit can be easily replaced.

[0198] (C) The liquid ejection device includes a connection flow path that connects two of the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit, and both ends of the connection flow path may be exposed from the exposure port.

[0199] According to the above configuration, it is easy to access both ends of the connection flow path through the exposure port. Therefore, it is easy to remove the connection flow path from both units. By removing both ends of the connection flow path from the units, the connection flow path can be taken out from the exposure port. Thereby, when removing one unit from the exposure port, there is no risk that the connection flow path interferes with the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit. Therefore, the unit can be easily replaced.

[0200] (D) The liquid ejection device includes a cap unit that contacts the head so as to cover the nozzle, and when the exposure port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the cap unit may be positioned so as to overlap at least one of the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit.

[0201] According to the above configuration, by removing the unit that overlaps with the cap unit, the cap unit can be accessed from the exposure port. That is, through the exposure port, in addition to the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit, the cap unit can also be accessed. In this way, the opening through which the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit can be accessed and the opening through which the cap unit can be accessed are aggregated as the exposure port. Therefore, the workability when replacing or repairing the unit is improved.

[0202] (E) The liquid ejection device includes a wiping unit that wipes a nozzle surface where the nozzles open in the head. When the exposure port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the wiping unit may be positioned so as to overlap at least one of the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit.

[0203] According to the above configuration, by removing the unit that overlaps with the wiping unit, access to the wiping unit can be achieved from the exposure port. That is, through the exposure port, in addition to the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit, access to the wiping unit can also be achieved. In this way, the opening for accessing the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit and the opening for accessing the wiping unit are aggregated as the exposure port. Therefore, the workability when replacing or repairing the unit is good.

[0204] (F) In the liquid ejection device, when the exposure port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the cap unit and the wiping unit may be positioned so as not to overlap with each other.

[0205] According to the above configuration, individual access to the cap unit and the wiping unit can be achieved from the exposure port. Therefore, the workability when replacing or repairing the cap unit and the wiping unit is good.

[0206] (G) The liquid ejection device includes a mounting unit configured to be able to mount a mounting body that stores the liquid discharged as waste liquid from the head. The exposure port exposes the mounting unit. When the exposure port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the mounting unit may be positioned so as not to overlap with the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit.

[0207] According to the above configuration, when removing the mounting unit from the exposure port, the mounting unit does not interfere with the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit. That is, the supply unit, the maintenance unit, the selector unit, and the mounting unit can be individually removed from the exposure port. Therefore, the units are easy to replace.

[0208] (H) The liquid ejection device includes a plurality of fixing members that fix the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit to the housing, respectively, and the plurality of fixing members may be exposed from the exposure port.

[0209] According to the above configuration, it is easy to remove the fixing member through the exposure port. Thereby, when replacing the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit through the exposure port, the workability is good.

[0210] (I) The liquid ejection device includes a fixing member that fixes the supply unit to the housing, the supply unit has a tray, the tray is fixed to the housing by the fixing member, is exposed from the exposure port, and the fixing member may be exposed from the exposure port. According to the above configuration, it is easy to remove the fixing member through the exposure port. Thereby, when replacing the supply unit through the exposure port, the workability is good.

[0211] (J) The liquid ejection device includes a fixing member that fixes the maintenance unit to the housing, the maintenance unit has a tray, the tray is fixed to the housing by the fixing member, is exposed from the exposure port, and the fixing member may be exposed from the exposure port. According to the above configuration, it is easy to remove the fixing member through the exposure port. Thereby, when replacing the maintenance unit through the exposure port, the workability is good.

[0212] (K) The liquid ejection device includes a detection unit that detects liquid, and the detection unit may be located on the tray. According to the above configuration, the detection unit detects the liquid on the tray. Thereby, liquid leakage in the liquid ejection device can be detected.

Explanation of Signs

[0213] 11…Liquid ejection device, 12…Housing, 13…Storage section, 14…Conveyor path, 15…Conveyor section, 16…Conveyor belt, 17…First pulley, 18…Second pulley, 19…Stacker, 21…Pull-out surface, 22…Opening surface, 23…Open cover, 24…Exposed cover, 25…Exposed opening, 31…Head unit, 32…Head, 33…Nozzle, 34…Nozzle surface, 35…First head flow path, 36…Second head flow path, 37…Head flow path section, 38…Head joint, 41…Supply unit, 42…Holder, 43…Liquid container, 44…Container valve, 45…First tank, 46…Second tank, 47…Tank valve, 48…First supply flow path, 49…Second supply flow path, 50…Third supply flow path, 51…Fourth supply flow path, 52…Fifth supply flow path, 53…Liquid flow path section, 54…First supply joint, 55…Gas flow path section, 56…Second supply joint, 57…Pressurizing section, 58…Liquid quantity sensor, 59…Filter, 60…First supply valve, 61…Second supply valve, 62…Third supply valve, 63…First supply membrane, 64…Second supply membrane, 65…Supply tray, 66…Supply detection section, 67…Device tray, 68…Connection part, 69…Leakage detection section, 70…Supply fixing member, 71…Maintenance unit, 72…Humidifying liquid tank, 73…Buffer tank, 74…First maintenance flow path, 75…Second maintenance flow path, 76…Third maintenance flow path, 77…Fourth maintenance flow path, 78…Fifth maintenance flow path, 79…Maintenance flow path section, 80…Maintenance joint, 81…Branching section, 82…Branching section, 83…Humidifying liquid quantity sensor, 84…Maintenance membrane, 85…First maintenance valve, 86…Second maintenance valve, 87…Third maintenance valve, 88…Fourth maintenance valve, 89…First maintenance pump, 90…Second maintenance pump, 91…Third maintenance pump, 92…Maintenance tray, 93…Maintenance detection section, 94…Connector, 95…Connection pin, 96…Supply pin, 97…Maintenance fixing member, 101…Mounting unit, 102…Mounting section, 103…Mounted body, 104…Waste liquid chamber, 105…Humidifying liquid chamber, 106…Humidifying liquid pack, 107…Mounting fixing member, 111…Cap unit, 112…Cap, 113…Cap membrane, 114…Waste liquid space, 115…Humidifying liquid space, 116…First cap flow path, 117…Second cap flow path, 118…Third cap flow path, 119…Cap flow path section, 121…Discharge member, 131…Wiping unit, 132…Wiping section133... Cleaner, 134... Wiping flow path, 135... Wiping flow path portion, 136... Guide member, 141... Selector unit, 142... Selector valve, 143... Vacuum pump, 144... Pressure sensor, 145... Support frame, 146... Selector fixing member, 151... First connection flow path, 152... Second connection flow path, 153... Third connection flow path, 154... Fourth connection flow path, 155... First flow path portion, 156... First connection joint, 157... Second flow path portion, 158... Second connection joint, 161... First relay flow path, 162... Second relay flow path, 163... Third relay flow path, 164... Fourth relay flow path, 165... Relay flow path portion, 166... Relay joint, M1... Medium.,

Claims

1. A head having a nozzle for discharging a liquid, A supply unit for supplying the liquid to the head, A maintenance unit for maintaining the head, A selector unit for selecting a unit to be opened to the atmosphere among the supply unit and the maintenance unit, A housing for housing the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit, The housing has an opening surface where an exposure port is opened and a cover for closing the exposure port, The exposure port exposes the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit, When the exposure port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit are positioned so as not to overlap with each other. A liquid discharge device characterized by this.

2. A connection flow path for connecting two of the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit, The connection flow path includes a flow path portion having elasticity, One end of the connection flow path is exposed from the exposure port. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1, characterized by this.

3. A connection flow path for connecting two of the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit, Both ends of the connection flow path are exposed from the exposure port. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized by this.

4. A cap unit that contacts the head so as to cover the nozzle, When the exposure port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the cap unit is positioned so as to overlap at least one of the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit. The liquid discharge device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by this.

5. A wiping unit for wiping a nozzle surface where the nozzle opens in the head, When the exposure port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the wiping unit is positioned so as to overlap at least one of the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit. The liquid discharge device according to claim 4, characterized by this.

6. The liquid ejection device according to claim 5, wherein when the discharge port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the cap unit and the wiping unit are positioned so as not to overlap each other.

7. A mounting unit is provided, which is configured to be capable of mounting a mounting body for accommodating the liquid discharged as waste liquid from the head. The discharge port exposes the mounting unit. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when the discharge port is viewed from a position facing the opening surface, the mounting unit is positioned so as not to overlap the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit.

8. A plurality of fixing members for fixing each of the supply unit, the maintenance unit, and the selector unit to the housing. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the plurality of fixing members are exposed from the discharge port.

9. A fixing member for fixing the supply unit to the housing. The supply unit has a tray. The tray is fixed to the housing by the fixing member and is exposed from the discharge port. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the fixing member is exposed from the discharge port.

10. A fixing member for fixing the maintenance unit to the housing. The maintenance unit has a tray. The tray is fixed to the housing by the fixing member and is exposed from the discharge port. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fixing member is exposed from the discharge port.

11. A detection unit for detecting liquid is provided. The liquid ejection device according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the detection unit is located on the tray.

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