Liquid dispensing device

Abstract

This liquid ejection device comprises a liquid ejection head, a standby unit, a retention unit, and an operation unit. The head has a nozzle surface. The operation unit relatively moves the retention unit with respect to the standby unit and the head from a position at which a wiping cartridge supported by the standby unit without being retained by the retention unit is retained by the retention unit to a position at which the cartridge retained by the retention unit contacts the nozzle surface.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a liquid ejection device such as an inkjet printer. [Background technology]

[0002] Liquid ejection heads (e.g., inkjet heads) that eject liquid droplets (e.g., ink droplets) toward a recording medium (e.g., paper) are known. Such liquid ejection heads have, for example, a nozzle surface in which a plurality of nozzles that eject liquid droplets are opened. A technique for wiping this nozzle surface is also known (for example, see Patent Document 1 below). Wiping removes, for example, solidified ink that has accumulated on the nozzle surface. Solidified ink occurs, for example, when a portion of ejected ink droplets becomes mist and floats up, and the mist-like ink adheres to the nozzle surface and solidifies. Removing the solidified ink reduces, for example, the likelihood that the plurality of nozzles will be partially or completely blocked by the solidified ink. This in turn stabilizes the ejection characteristics of the liquid ejection head.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a wiping unit for wiping. The wiping unit includes a sheet-shaped ink absorber, a feed rotor around which the ink absorber is wound, and a take-up rotor that takes up the ink absorber fed from the feed rotor. Wiping is performed by the portion of the ink absorber between the feed rotor and the take-up rotor. After wiping, the ink absorber moves a predetermined distance from the feed rotor to the take-up rotor, and the next wiping is performed by an unused portion of the ink absorber. When the ink absorber wound around the feed rotor is almost all used, the user replaces the wiping unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-51142 Summary of the Invention

[0005] A liquid ejection device according to one aspect of the present disclosure has a liquid ejection head, a standby unit, a holding unit, and an operating unit. The liquid ejection head has a nozzle surface. The standby unit supports a wiping cartridge. The holding unit holds the wiping cartridge. The operating unit moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a first position to a second position. The first position is a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit. The second position is a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a main part of a liquid ejection device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a liquid ejection head and a wiping cartridge of the liquid ejection device of FIG. [Figure 3] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams illustrating operations related to replacement of the wiping cartridge. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of a control system of the liquid ejection device of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a main part of a liquid ejection device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a main part of a liquid ejection device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a standby unit and a wiping cartridge according to a first modified example. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a standby section according to a second modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a standby section according to a third modified example. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a process related to replacement of a wiping cartridge. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams showing modified examples of the wiping operation. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a side view showing a specific example of a liquid ejection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view of the liquid ejection device of FIG. [Figure 14] 13 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a wiper used in the liquid ejection device of FIG. 12. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the drawings used in the following description are schematic, and the dimensional ratios and the like in the drawings do not necessarily correspond to the actual ones. The dimensional ratios and the like in the drawings may also not correspond to each other. In addition, certain shapes may be exaggerated and details may be omitted.

[0008] After the description of the first embodiment, in the description of other embodiments (or modified examples, etc.), differences from the previously described embodiment (or modified examples, etc.) will basically be described. Matters not specifically mentioned may be considered to be the same as the previously described embodiment, etc., or may be inferred from the previously described embodiment, etc. For convenience, the symbols of the first embodiment may be used in the description of modified examples, etc. However, various modified examples, etc. may be applied to other embodiments.

[0009] First Embodiment (Overview of liquid ejection device) FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of a liquid ejection device 1 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "device 1") according to the first embodiment.

[0010] These figures are shown with a Cartesian coordinate system D1-D2-D3. The device 1 may be used in any orientation relative to the vertical direction. For convenience, the following description may be expressed assuming that the +D3 side is vertically upward.

[0011] The device 1 is, for example, an inkjet printer. For convenience, the following description may be given assuming that the device 1 is a printer. The printer ejects, for example, droplets (ink droplets) from a nozzle surface 3a of a liquid ejection head 3 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "head 3") toward a recording medium (e.g., paper) not shown. This forms an image (including characters) on the recording medium. In other words, recording and / or printing is performed.

[0012] The device 1 wipes the nozzle surface 3a using wiping cartridges 5 (5A and 5B). Note that hereinafter, the "wiping cartridge" may be simply referred to as the "cartridge." Figure 1 shows the state in which wiping is being performed. When printing is performed using the head 3, unlike in Figure 1, the head 3 and cartridge 5 are positioned apart from each other.

[0013] As described in the Background Art section, wiping the nozzle surface 3a removes, for example, solidified ink, stabilizing the ejection characteristics of the head 3. Even if the liquid ejected by the head 3 is not ink, for example, solidified liquid and / or dust separate from the liquid is removed, stabilizing the ejection characteristics of the head 3.

[0014] The device 1 has a device main body 7 that ejects liquid and a wiper 9 that performs wiping. The device main body 7 has, for example, a head 3, and is responsible for the relative movement between the head 3 and a recording medium, and for controlling the head 3. In FIG. 1, the device main body 7 is not shown except for the head 3. The wiper 9 has a cartridge 5, and is responsible for the relative movement between the cartridge 5 and the head 3, for example.

[0015] Note that the device main body 7 and the wiper 9 may share parts and are not necessarily clearly distinguishable from each other. As will be described later, the cartridge 5 can be considered a consumable item, and therefore the device 1 and the wiper 9 may be defined excluding the cartridge 5. For convenience, the portion of the wiper 9 excluding the cartridge 5 may be referred to as the wiper main body 9a below.

[0016] The wiper body 9a has, for example, the following components: An arm 21 that holds the cartridge 5 currently being used for wiping when wiping is being performed; A waiting section 23 where one or more cartridges 5 (replacement cartridges 5) that are not being used by the arm 21 wait; An attachment section 25 that attaches cleaning liquid to the cartridge 5 to clean the nozzle surface 3a. The arm 21 also has, for example, the following components: A holding section 27 that can hold and release the cartridge 5 from this hold (release the cartridge 5); An arm body 29 that moves the holding section 27.

[0017] The wiper 9 replaces the cartridge 5 held in the holder 27 by itself (i.e., without manual operation by the user). This improves user convenience. Note that during replacement, the holder 27 releases the cartridge 5 and holds a new cartridge 5. However, the wiper 9 may perform only one of the release and the hold by itself, or the characteristics may be extracted by focusing on only one of the release and the hold during replacement. In the description of the embodiments, the description may focus on either the replacement, the hold, or the release unless otherwise specified.

[0018] Except for the configuration related to replacement of the cartridge 5, the configuration of the device 1 may be various, for example, a known configuration. For example, the configuration of the device main body 7 may be the same as a known configuration, except for the portion that cooperates with the wiper 9. Description of such portions that may be known will be omitted as appropriate.

[0019] The first embodiment will be described generally in the following order. (1) Head 3 (Figure 2) (2) Overview of wiping configuration and operation (Figs. 1 and 2) (3) Cartridge 5 (Figures 1 and 2) (4) Overview of the configuration and operation related to replacement of the cartridge 5 (Figs. 1 and 3) (5) Configuration and Operation Related to Replacement of Cartridge 5 in the First Embodiment (FIG. 1) (6) Configuration and operation related to supply of cleaning liquid in the first embodiment (FIG. 1) (7) Specific examples of the holding portion 27 (FIGS. 1 and 4) (8) Specific examples of arm 21 (Figs. 1 and 4) (9) Specific examples of the standby unit 23 (FIGS. 1 and 4) (10) Specific examples of the attachment portion 25 (FIGS. 1 and 4) (11) Wiper 9 control system (Fig. 4) (12) Summary of the First Embodiment

[0020] The above explanations of (1) and (2) mainly describe parts that may be configured in various ways, including known configurations. However, the above explanations of (1) and (2) may include explanations of new configurations unless otherwise specified. The above explanation of (2) basically describes the configuration and operation of wiping itself, excluding the configuration and operation related to cartridge 5 replacement. The above explanation of (3) touches on the configuration of the cartridge 5 as well as the reasons for replacement. The above explanation of (4) mainly describes matters common to the second and third embodiments described below.

[0021] (head) Fig. 2 is a perspective view that schematically shows the head 3. Fig. 2 shows a state in which wiping is being performed, and in addition to the head 3, the cartridge 5 (5A) is also depicted.

[0022] The head 3 may have a known configuration. Therefore, in the following description, details of the head 3 may be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, in the description of the head 3, unlike in Figures 1 and 2, expressions may be used assuming that the cartridge 5 is located at a distance from the head 3.

[0023] The head 3 is a device that ejects droplets toward the -D3 side. The droplets are, for example, ink droplets. In this case, for example, the ejected ink droplets adhere to an object (for example, a recording medium) (not shown) that is arranged on the -D3 side of the head 3. In this way, printing or the like is performed on the object.

[0024] The head 3 has a nozzle surface 3a facing the -D3 side. The nozzle surface 3a has one or more (multiple in the illustrated example) nozzles 11 (FIG. 2) that eject droplets. The term nozzle surface 3a may be understood to refer to the entire surface on the -D3 side of the head 3, or to refer only to the area of ​​the surface on the -D3 side where the multiple nozzles 11 are arranged.

[0025] The nozzle surface 3a is, for example, planar. However, depending on the application of the head 3, the nozzle surface 3a may be curved or the like. The planar shape of the nozzle surface 3a is arbitrary. In the illustrated example, the nozzle surface 3a is elongated in the D1 direction. More specifically, the nozzle surface 3a is a roughly rectangular shape with the D1 direction as its longitudinal direction. The dimensions of the nozzle surface 3a are arbitrary. For example, the length in the D1 direction may be 1 cm or more and 1 m or less, or may be outside this range. Furthermore, for example, the length in the D2 direction (the width of the nozzle surface 3a) may be 1 mm or more and 20 cm or less, or may be outside this range. The material of the nozzle surface 3a is arbitrary and may be, for example, metal or resin. Furthermore, a water-repellent film covering the metal or resin may be provided.

[0026] The shape and dimensions of each nozzle 11 are arbitrary. The number and arrangement of the multiple nozzles 11 are also arbitrary. For example, the multiple nozzles 11 are arranged to form one or more rows (multiple (five) in the illustrated example). The direction in which the rows extend (the direction in which the nozzles 11 are arranged in each row) is, for example, along the D1 direction (from another perspective, the longitudinal direction of the nozzle surface 3a). The direction in which the rows extend may be parallel to the D1 direction (in the illustrated example), or may be inclined.

[0027] A belt-shaped image having a width in the direction in which the rows extend is formed by ejecting ink droplets from the nozzles 11 while moving the head 3 relative to the recording medium in a direction (for example, direction D2) that intersects with the rows of the nozzles 11. Furthermore, by arranging the nozzles 11 so that the positions of the nozzles 11 in the multiple rows do not overlap with each other when viewed in the direction of relative movement between the head 3 and the recording medium (for example, direction D2), dots can be formed on the recording medium at a pitch narrower than the pitch of the nozzles 11 in each row.

[0028] The head 3 may use any method for ejection, and may be, for example, a piezoelectric or thermal type. In a piezoelectric head, pressure is applied to the liquid by a piezoelectric element, causing droplets to be ejected from the nozzle 11. In a thermal head, bubbles are formed in the liquid by the heat of a heating element, and droplets are ejected from the nozzle 11 by the pressure associated with the formed bubbles.

[0029] The head 3 may be, for example, one used in a so-called line printer, or one used in a serial printer.

[0030] The head 3 used in a line printer has a length in the direction D1 that spans roughly the entire length (width) of the recording medium. The head 3 ejects ink droplets while moving relative to the recording medium in the direction D2. This forms an image, for example, across almost the entire recording medium. A unit that functions as a line printer head may be configured by arranging multiple heads 3. An example of this configuration will be given later.

[0031] The head 3 used in a serial printer repeats an operation of forming a belt-shaped image by ejecting ink droplets while moving relative to the recording medium in the direction D2, and an operation of moving relative to the recording medium in the direction D1. As a result, multiple belt-shaped images are formed in succession. Ultimately, an image is formed across almost the entire recording medium.

[0032] The liquid ejected by the head 3 may be, for example, ink. The ink contains, for example, a colorant and a solvent. The colorant may be, for example, a pigment or a dye. The solvent may be, for example, water or an organic solvent. In some technical fields, a distinction is made between ink and paint, but the two will not be distinguished in the description of the embodiments.

[0033] The liquid ejected by the head 3 may be something other than ink. For example, the liquid may be a coating agent that does not contain a colorant. The liquid may also be a liquid that is printed on a circuit board to form a conductive layer. The liquid may also be a liquid chemical agent or a liquid that contains a chemical agent.

[0034] (Overview of wiping configuration and operation) As described above, the device 1 (FIG. 1) may have only one head 3, or may have multiple heads 3. In the latter case, the wiper 9 may wipe the multiple heads 3. In the description of the embodiment, the focus is basically on one head 3. Cases where multiple heads 3 are provided will be described later (FIG. 14). In addition, in the description of wiping itself (operations other than replacing the cartridge 5) here, unless otherwise specified, the cartridge 5 refers to one held by the arm 21 (more specifically, the holding portion 27).

[0035] 1, the holder 27 holds the cartridge 5. The number of cartridges 5 held by the holder 27 at one time is, for example, one. With the cartridge 5 held by the holder 27 in contact with the nozzle surface 3a, the head 3 and the holder 27 move relatively in a direction along the nozzle surface 3a (direction D1 in the illustrated example), causing the cartridge 5 to slide against the nozzle surface 3a. This performs wiping.

[0036] The manner in which the cartridge 5 contacts and moves with respect to the nozzle surface 3a during wiping may be determined as appropriate. In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, the cartridge 5 contacts the nozzle surface 3a over the entire length in direction D2. As indicated by the arrow, the cartridge 5 moves relative to the nozzle surface 3a in direction D1. This wipes almost the entire nozzle surface 3a.

[0037] The cartridge 5 may perform wiping by moving relative to the nozzle surface 3a toward the +D1 side, or by moving relative to the -D1 side, or may perform both. In the following description, relative movement toward one of these directions may be used as an example unless otherwise specified. In this case, relative movement toward the other direction may be performed in the same manner as relative movement toward the one direction. In the following description, a diagram of movement toward the -D1 side and a diagram of movement toward the +D1 side may be described as illustrating the same state.

[0038] Unlike the illustrated example, the cartridge 5 may perform wiping by moving relative to the nozzle surface 3a in a direction other than the direction D1. Examples of such a direction include the direction D2, and also a direction inclined relative to the direction D1. Furthermore, the cartridge 5 may move relative to the nozzle surface 3a in an arc (or, more generally, in a curved line) like a windshield wiper on a car, rather than moving relative to the nozzle surface 3a in a straight line. The direction of the cartridge 5's relative movement relative to the nozzle surface 3a may be changed in various directions.

[0039] Furthermore, unlike the illustrated example, the cartridge 5 may not have a length that covers the nozzle surface 3a in a direction (direction D2 in the illustrated example) perpendicular to the relative movement with respect to the nozzle surface 3a when viewed from above. In this case, the cartridge 5 may wipe the entire nozzle surface 3a by moving back and forth while changing its position relative to the nozzle surface 3a in the perpendicular direction. Alternatively, two or more cartridges 5 may be used for one head 3.

[0040] The relative movement between the head 3 and the holder 27 during wiping may be achieved by movement of the head 3, by movement of the holder 27, or by movement of both. The specific configuration responsible for the movement may be any. Note that in the description of this embodiment, the description may be based on the assumption that the head 3 moves as shown by arrow a1 in FIG. 1.

[0041] The head 3 transitions, for example, between a state in which it faces the recording medium (or, from another perspective, a transport unit, not shown, that transports the recording medium) and a state in which it faces the wiper 9. This state transition may be achieved by movement of the head 3, or by movement of the transport unit and movement of the wiper 9. The movement of the wiper 9 referred to here may be movement of the entire wiper 9 (the arm 21, the standby unit 23, the bed 43 (described below), and the attachment unit 25), or may be movement of only a part of it (for example, the arm 21). At least a part of the configuration responsible for movement during wiping in the previous paragraph may be shared with at least a part of the configuration responsible for movement during the above state transition, or may be an entirely different configuration.

[0042] Wiping may be performed at an appropriate time. For example, wiping may be performed when a predetermined operation is performed on an operation unit (not shown) of the device 1. Alternatively, wiping may be performed when the control device 31 (FIG. 4) of the device 1 determines that the time to perform wiping has arrived. This time may be, for example, when the device 1 starts operating, when printing begins after operation, and / or when printing has been performed for a predetermined length of time. The control device 31 may determine whether to perform wiping based on information about the state (e.g., dirt) of the nozzle surface 3a. The information about the nozzle surface 3a may be obtained, for example, by an imager that captures an image of the nozzle surface 3a or a scanner that scans a printed image (if the image quality has deteriorated, it can be determined that wiping is necessary).

[0043] (cartridge) As described above, the wiper 9 replaces the cartridges 5 by itself. Therefore, at least when replacement is required, the wiper 9 has at least two cartridges 5 (one before replacement and one after replacement). The number of cartridges 5 that the wiper 9 has at the same time may be set appropriately. FIG. 1 illustrates one cartridge 5 that is currently in use (held in the holding section 27) and five cartridges 5 (5A and 5B) that are not in use (placed in the standby section 23). The five cartridges 5 that are not in use are, for example, used or unused cartridges. The used cartridges 5 may be reused.

[0044] The replacement of the cartridge 5 may be performed for any appropriate reason. For example, the replacement may involve replacing a cartridge 5 that has been used for wiping and is soiled with an unused cartridge 5. In this case, the cartridge 5 before replacement and the cartridge 5 after replacement have, for example, the same configuration. The cartridge replaced in this manner may be a disposable one, or may be one that can be cleaned and reused. The replacement may also involve replacing cartridges 5 that have different configurations. In this case, for example, it is possible to use a cartridge 5 that has a configuration that is appropriate for the state of soiling of the nozzle surface 3a (the degree of soiling and / or the type of deposits). It is also possible to perform both of the above-mentioned two types of replacement.

[0045] As can be understood from the above description, the multiple cartridges 5 included in the wiper 9 may have the same configuration as each other, or may have different configurations. In other words, the multiple cartridges 5 may include only one type of cartridge 5, or may include two or more types of cartridges 5. In the latter case, the number of each of the different types of cartridges 5 (or, from another perspective, the ratio of the numbers of the types) is arbitrary.

[0046] 1 illustrates an embodiment in which the plurality (six) of cartridges 5 includes two types of cartridges 5 (5A and 5B). More specifically, in FIG. 1, the plurality of cartridges 5 includes five first cartridges 5A and one second cartridge 5B.

[0047] The multiple first cartridges 5A have, for example, the same configuration as each other and are replaced with unused cartridges after use. The first cartridges 5A have, for example, a configuration that makes them more susceptible to contamination than the second cartridges 5B and / or a configuration that is set to be used more frequently. For these reasons, the first cartridges 5A need to be replaced with unused cartridges more frequently than the second cartridges 5B. For this reason, the number of first cartridges 5A is set to be greater than the number of second cartridges 5B.

[0048] Although not specifically shown, unlike the illustrated example, the number of cartridges 5 may be the same among different types. For example, the number of first cartridges 5A and the number of second cartridges 5B may both be 1, or may both be a predetermined number greater than or equal to 2. When three or more types of cartridges 5 are provided, such a numerical relationship may be true for all types, or may be true for some types. Furthermore, the number of cartridges 5 of a type with a relatively small number of cartridges 5 (5B in the illustrated example) may be 2 or greater.

[0049] The cartridge 5 has, for example, a wiping member 13 that comes into contact with the nozzle surface 3a and directly performs wiping, and a holder 15 that holds the wiping member 13. The holder 15 is held by a holding portion 27 of the arm 21. Note that the cartridge 5 may be composed of only the wiping member 13. In other words, the holding portion 27 may hold the wiping member 13 directly.

[0050] The specific configurations (material, shape, dimensions, etc.) of the wiping member 13 and the holder 15 are arbitrary. For example, the material of the wiping member 13 may or may not have elasticity and / or liquid retention. The wiping member 13 may be integrally formed from one material, or may be composed of two or more members made of different materials.

[0051] The specific configurations of the wiping member 13 and the holder 15 will be described using the first cartridge 5A and the second cartridge 5B as examples. In the following description, the wiping member 13 and the holder 15 of the first cartridge 5A may be designated by the letter A (see FIG. 3). The wiping member 13 and the holder 15 of the second cartridge 5B may be designated by the letter B.

[0052] In the first cartridge 5A, the wiping member 13A has, for example, liquid retention properties. For example, the entire wiping member 13A may be made of a porous material. Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 11 described later, the wiping member 13A may have an elastic member 13a and a liquid retention member 13b that covers at least a portion of the surface of the elastic member 13a. The liquid retention member 13b may be made of a porous material or cloth. An example of a porous material is a sponge.

[0053] As described above, when at least a portion of the surface side of wiping member 13A is made of sponge or when wiping member 13A is configured to include elastic member 13a, wiping member 13A has elasticity in addition to liquid retention. However, wiping member 13A does not have to have elasticity. For example, unlike the above description, a hard material may be used instead of elastic member 13a, and liquid retention member 13b made of cloth may be disposed on the surface of the hard material.

[0054] For example, when the wiping member 13A is not receiving pressure from the nozzle surface 3a (the same applies hereinafter in this paragraph), it has a curved tip surface that bulges toward the nozzle surface 3a. From another perspective, the wiping member 13A has a semi-cylindrical shape at its tip. The axis of the semi-cylinder is, for example, parallel to the nozzle surface 3a and parallel to a direction (D2 direction) that intersects (for example, is perpendicular to) the wiping movement direction (D1 direction). Note that the semi-cylindrical shape does not have to be a strict semi-cylinder; for example, it may be a semi-elliptical cylinder, a flattened cylinder, or the interior angle of the arc in cross section may not be 180°. Unlike the illustrated example, the wiping member 13A may be blade-shaped, like the wiping member 13B described below.

[0055] In the first cartridge 5A, the holder 15A is made of a hard material such as metal, resin, or ceramic. The holder 15A has, for example, a main portion 15a and a gripped portion 15b, as indicated by the reference numerals in FIG. 2. The main portion 15a contributes to holding the wiping member 13A, for example. The gripped portion 15b is configured as an example of a portion (held portion) held by the holding portion 27. The main portion 15a and the gripped portion 15b are located closer to the rear end than the portion of the first cartridge 5A that contacts the nozzle surface 3a (the tip end portion of the wiping member 13A). The gripped portion 15b is located closer to the rear end than the main portion 15a (in the illustrated example, it constitutes the rear end of the holder 15A).

[0056] The main portion 15a may hold the wiping member 13A as appropriate. For example, as shown in FIG. 11 (described later), the holder 15A may include two members (reference numerals omitted) that divide the holder 15A in the wiping direction (direction D1). The two members may be fixed to each other so as to sandwich the wiping member 13A therebetween, thereby holding the wiping member 13A. A screw or the like may be inserted through the wiping member 13A to fix it to the holder 15A. The main portion 15a may have a length in direction D2 equal to that of the wiping member 13A. In the illustrated example, the gripped portion 15b does not contribute to holding the wiping member 13A, but it may do so.

[0057] The gripped portions 15b have a smaller width than the main portion 15a, for example, in a predetermined direction (direction D1 in the illustrated example) perpendicular to the direction from the front end to the rear end. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, when the first cartridges 5A are arranged in the waiting section 23 in the D1 direction, the gripped portions 15b protrude upward while being spaced apart from each other. This makes it easier to grip the first cartridge 5A from above. In the illustrated example, the gripped portions 15b have the same width in the D2 direction as the main portion 15a (and the wiping member 13). However, the gripped portions 15b may also be smaller than the main portion 15a in the D2 direction. Unlike the illustrated example, the gripped portions 15b may not be provided. The holder 15A may also have a flange located rearward of the gripped portions 15b, the flange having a width greater than the gripped portions 15b but smaller than the main portion 15a.

[0058] In the second cartridge 5B, the wiping member 13B is made entirely of an elastic material. The elastic material does not have liquid retention properties (e.g., it is not porous). The wiping member 13B is configured, for example, in a blade-like shape. That is, the wiping member 13B is generally plate-like with a constant thickness. Its planar shape is generally rectangular. During wiping, the wiping member 13B brings one long side portion into contact with the nozzle surface 3a and slides against the nozzle surface 3a so that the long side is parallel to the direction (D2 direction) intersecting (e.g., perpendicular to) the wiping movement direction (D1 direction). Although the second cartridge 5B is less effective at removing dirt than the first cartridge, it can perform multiple wiping operations without replacement. Therefore, the second cartridge 5B can be used, for example, when the nozzle surface 3a is not very dirty and the first cartridge 5A does not need to be used. Using the second cartridge 5B can reduce the amount of first cartridge 5A that is discarded. Furthermore, if a water-repellent film is formed on the nozzle surface 3a, the second cartridge 5B may be used to reduce deterioration of the water-repellent film due to wiping.

[0059] In the second cartridge 5B, the configuration of the holder 15B is basically the same as that of the holder 15A, except for differences resulting from differences in the configuration of the wiping member 13, for example. The description of the holder 15A may be applied to the holder 15B as appropriate. For example, although not specifically referenced, the holder 15B has a main portion and a grippable portion, similar to the wiping member 13A. The grippable portion of the holder 15B has the same configuration as the grippable portion 15b of the wiping member 13A. Meanwhile, unlike the main portion 15a of the wiping member 13A, the main portion of the holder 15B has a relatively small width in the D1 direction.

[0060] Unlike the illustrated example, the width of the main portion of the holder 15B may be the same as the width of the main portion 15a of the wiping member 13A. From another perspective, all cartridges 5 may have the same gripped portion 15b and the same maximum width (maximum width of the main portion 15a) in the D1 direction (and the D2 direction). In this case, for example, it is easier to handle all cartridges 5 in a uniform manner. Also, unlike the above description and illustrated example, the configurations of the gripped portions 15b of multiple cartridges 5 may be different from each other.

[0061] The material of the wiping member 13A of the first cartridge 5A and the material of the wiping member 13B of the second cartridge 5B are at least partially different from each other. That is, the multiple cartridges 5 include two or more types of cartridges 5 in which the materials of the wiping members 13 are different from each other. In the description of this embodiment, when the wiping member 13A is composed of an elastic member 13a and a liquid retention member 13b, both the elastic member 13a and the liquid retention member 13b are considered to be wiping members. However, only the liquid retention member 13b that directly contacts the nozzle surface 3a may be considered to be the wiping member.

[0062] In the description of this embodiment, the multiple first cartridges 5A are described as having the same configuration. However, unlike the description of this embodiment, the multiple first cartridges 5A may have different configurations due to the wiping members 13A being made of different materials. From another perspective, the multiple cartridges 5 may include two or more types of cartridges 5 that have the same shape and dimensions but are made of different materials.

[0063] (Overview of configuration and operation related to cartridge replacement) Here, the following mainly describes the configuration and operation related to the replacement of the cartridge 5, which are common to this embodiment and the second and third embodiments described later.

[0064] Replacement of the cartridge 5 is realized by moving the cartridge 5 arranged in the standby section 23 to a position where it can be held (or released) by the holding section 27, through relative movement between the holding section 27 of the arm 21 and the standby section 23. From another perspective, replacement is not performed by an exchange device (e.g., a robot) (not shown) provided separately from the arm 21 and the standby section 23 transporting the cartridge 5 from the standby section 23 to the holding section 27.

[0065] After the cartridge 5 is replaced, the cartridge 5 held by the holding portion 27 moves from the standby portion 23 due to the relative movement between the holding portion 27 and the standby portion 23. Furthermore, the cartridge 5 moves to a position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3a due to the relative movement between the holding portion 27 and the head 3. This makes it possible to perform wiping. As will be understood from the explanation below, the position where the cartridge 5 contacts the nozzle surface 3a may refer to a position where the cartridge 5 can contact the nozzle surface 3a (a position where contact is currently occurring).

[0066] The replacement (or holding or release; the same applies below) of the cartridge 5 may be performed after each wiping, or may be performed after two or more wipings have been performed. In any case, when replacing the cartridge 5 and performing the first wiping after the replacement, the above-mentioned movement of the holding portion 27 to a position where it can hold the cartridge 5 (first movement), the movement of the holding portion 27 newly holding the cartridge 5 away from the standby portion 23 (second movement), and the movement of the cartridge 5 held by the holding portion 27 to a position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3a (third movement) may be performed as a series of operations. Note that in the description of the embodiments, for convenience, expressions assuming that such a series of operations are performed may be used in the text and drawings.

[0067] On the other hand, if wiping is performed two or more times after replacement, the holding portion 27 may wait for the next wiping time at an appropriate position without returning to the standby portion 23 after wiping. Then, when the time for the next wiping arrives, the holding portion 27 may move to a position where the cartridge 5 contacts the nozzle surface 3a. In other words, the first and second movements described above are not necessarily performed in the second and subsequent wipings after replacement. Also, even in a mode in which replacement is performed after each wiping, the first to third movements described above do not have to be performed as a series of operations. For example, other operations may be performed as appropriate between the first to third movements. However, in either case, the first to third movements described above are still performed at least once after replacement.

[0068] As described above, when wiping is performed in the device 1, a state in which the head 3 and the recording medium (or, from another perspective, the conveying unit that conveys the recording medium) face each other is transitioned to a state in which the head 3 and the wiper 9 face each other. When both replacement of the cartridge 5 and wiping are performed, the relative timing of the above state transition and the relative movement (first to third movements) of the holding unit 27 for replacement of the cartridge 5 or the like may be set appropriately.

[0069] For example, after a transition from a state in which the head 3 and the recording medium face each other to a state in which the head 3 and the wiper 9 face each other, the holding part 27 may undergo relative movement (first to third movements) for purposes such as replacing the cartridge 5. In this case, for example, as described above, the first to third movements may be performed as a series of operations. Note that in the description of the embodiment, for convenience, expressions assuming this form may be used in the text and drawings.

[0070] Furthermore, for example, relative timing may be set in the opposite way to the above. Specifically, first, with the head 3 and the recording medium facing each other, the holder 27 may perform relative movement (first to third movements) for replacing the cartridge 5 or the like. By the third movement, the cartridge 5 reaches a position where it can come into contact with the nozzle surface 3a. Thereafter, a transition may be made from a state in which the head 3 and the recording medium face each other to a state in which the head 3 and the wiper 9 face each other. At this time, the cartridge 5 held by the holder 27 may actually come into contact with the nozzle surface 3a.

[0071] Furthermore, for example, a state transition may be performed during relative movement for replacement or the like, or a relative movement for replacement or the like may be performed during a state transition. For example, replacement of the cartridge 5 held by the holding unit 27 (first movement) may be performed while the head 3 and the recording medium are facing each other. Then, the cartridge 5 newly held by the holding unit 27 may remain positioned in the standby unit 23, or may be stopped at an intermediate position away from the standby unit 23. In other words, the third movement may not be performed. Next, a state transition may be performed. Thereafter, the cartridge 5 held by the holding unit 27 may move from the standby unit 23 or the intermediate position toward the nozzle surface 3a (third movement) and come into contact with the nozzle surface 3a.

[0072] Furthermore, for example, at least a part of the relative movement for exchange or the like and at least a part of the state transition may be inseparably integrated (commonly integrated). For this example, see the second and third embodiments described later.

[0073] The relative movement (first and second movements) between the holding part 27 and the standby part 23 when replacing the cartridge 5 may be achieved by either the movement of the holding part 27 or the movement of the standby part 23, or by both. Furthermore, the relative movement (third movement) between the holding part 27 and the head 3 after replacement may be achieved by either the movement of the holding part 27 or the movement of the standby part 23, or by both.

[0074] The mechanism that realizes the relative movement (first and second movements) between the arm 21 and the standby portion 23 when replacing the cartridge 5 and the mechanism that realizes the relative movement (third movement) between the arm 21 and the head 3 after replacement may be partly or entirely shared, or may be configured completely separately. Furthermore, partly or entirely of these mechanisms may be shared with partly or entirely of the mechanism that moves the head 3 and the holder 27 relatively for wiping, or may be shared with partly or entirely of the mechanism that realizes the relative movement for state transition.

[0075] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of replacing the cartridge 5. As shown in FIG.

[0076] As shown in the upper part of Figure 3, and as already mentioned, the arm 21 picks up a portion (a number less than the first number; in the illustrated example, one) of the multiple (first number) cartridges 5 supported by the standby section 23. The wiper 9 then uses the picked-up cartridge 5 for wiping. Also, as shown in the lower part of Figure 3, when replacing a cartridge 5, the arm 21 returns the cartridge 5 it is currently holding to its original position in the standby section 23.

[0077] Unlike the illustrated example, the number of cartridges to be picked up may be two or more. For example, the arm 21 may have multiple holding portions 27, and / or one holding portion 27 may hold multiple cartridges 5. In this case, for example, multiple heads 3 can be wiped simultaneously. Also, for example, a cartridge 5 with liquid-retaining properties can be lined up behind a cartridge 5 without liquid-retaining properties, and one head 3 can be wiped by two cartridges 5.

[0078] The order in which the multiple cartridges 5 located in the standby section 23 are picked up may be set as appropriate. For example, as described above, the multiple first cartridges 5A are replaced with unused cartridges after used ones. In the illustrated example, the multiple first cartridges 5A are arranged in a line in a predetermined direction (direction D1 in the illustrated example) in the standby section 23. In this example, the multiple first cartridges 5A may be picked up in order from one side of the predetermined direction (the -D1 side or the +D1 side). It is clear that the order in which the first cartridges 5A and second cartridges 5B are picked up, which are used depending on the situation, may be set as appropriate.

[0079] Unlike the illustrated example, the cartridge 5 does not have to be returned to the standby section 23. For example, although not specifically illustrated, the wiper 9 may have a collection section, separate from the standby section 23, as a place to place the used cartridge 5. The holding section 27 may then move to the collection section, release the cartridge 5, and place the cartridge 5 in the collection section. In this case, for example, the likelihood that dirt adhering to a used first cartridge 5A will adhere to an unused first cartridge 5A placed in the standby section 23 is reduced.

[0080] Furthermore, when the cartridges 5 are returned to the standby section 23, unlike the illustrated example, the cartridges 5 may be returned to a location different from their original location. For example, depending on the configuration of the standby section 23, when the standby section 23 moves, the position of the cartridges 5 placed in the standby section 23 may be displaced from their original location due to inertial force. In such a case, the cartridges 5 may be returned to an empty location in the standby section 23 as needed. Also, for example, the wiper 9 may have fewer cartridges 5 than the number of cartridges 5 that the standby section 23 can support. The cartridges 5 may then be returned to an empty location in the standby section 23 (not necessarily their original location). However, in this embodiment, if the number of cartridges 5 held by the wiper 9 is half or less the number of cartridges 5 that the standby section 23 can support and the pickup position and return position of all cartridges 5 are completely different, the standby section 23 may be considered to include the above-mentioned collection section.

[0081] Unlike the illustrated example, cartridge 5 replacement may be performed in a manner that does not conform to the concept of "pickup." For example, the standby section 23 may be configured to support only one first cartridge 5A. After a used first cartridge 5A held by the holding section 27 is placed in a collection section, an unused first cartridge 5A placed in the standby section 23 may be held by the holding section 27. When the replacement frequency of the first cartridge 5A is low, it may be beneficial to achieve a reduction in the size of the standby section 23 using such a configuration. Note that if the holding section 27 can selectively hold a cartridge 5 from at least two cartridges 5 positioned in the standby section 23, this may be considered to conform to the concept of pickup.

[0082] The cartridge 5 may be replaced (or held or released; the same applies below) at an appropriate time. For example, the cartridge 5 may be replaced when a predetermined operation is performed on an operation unit (not shown) of the device 1. The cartridge 5 may also be replaced when the control device 31 (FIG. 4) of the device 1 determines that the time for replacement has arrived. This time may be, for example, when wiping has been performed a predetermined number of times or more using the cartridge 5 held in the holding unit 27. The control device 31 may determine whether or not to replace the cartridge 5 based on information about the state of the cartridge 5 (e.g., dirt). The information about the state of the cartridge 5 may be obtained, for example, by an imager that captures an image of the cartridge 5 or a component that acquires information about the nozzle surface 3a (if the wiping effect on the nozzle surface 3a has decreased, it can be determined that replacement is necessary).

[0083] (Configuration and Operation Related to Cartridge Replacement in the First Embodiment) As described above, the relative movement between the holding section 27 and the standby section 23 to replace the cartridge 5 may be achieved by movement of either the holding section 27 or the standby section 23. Furthermore, the relative movement between the holding section 27 and the head 3 to move the cartridge 5 to a position where it comes into contact with the head 3 after replacement may be achieved by movement of either the holding section 27 or the head 3. Furthermore, the manner (movement direction, movement path, etc.) of this relative movement or movement in an absolute coordinate system (world coordinate system, reference coordinate system) is arbitrary.

[0084] The entire configuration that realizes the relative movement of the holding unit 27 with respect to the standby unit 23 and the head 3 as described above is referred to as an operating unit 45 (reference numeral shown in FIG. 4). The first to third embodiments differ from each other mainly in the configuration of the operating unit. In this embodiment, the operating unit 45 includes, for example, an arm 21, as will be understood from the following description, and also includes a configuration for moving the standby unit 23 (such as a drive source 37 described later).

[0085] In this embodiment, the relative movement between the holding portion 27 and the standby portion 23 for replacement is realized by both the movement of the holding portion 27 and the movement of the standby portion 23. Furthermore, the relative movement between the holding portion 27 and the head 3 for moving the cartridge 5 to a position where it comes into contact with the head 3 after replacement is realized by the movement of the holding portion 27. Specifically, this is as follows.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 1 , the arm 21 (arm main body 29) is located on the side of the head 3 where the nozzle surface 3 a faces (the -D3 side). As indicated by arrows a2 and a3, the arm main body 29 is rotatable around a rotation axis R1 that is perpendicular to the direction in which the nozzle surface 3 a faces (the D3 direction). Note that the rotation axis R1 indicates a virtual line that serves as the center of rotation and does not refer to an actual shaft-like member. As indicated by arrow a4, the holding unit 27 is supported by the arm main body 29 so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis R1. The holding unit 27 is located at a position away from the rotation axis R1 (more specifically, at the tip of the arm main body 29, for example). The standby unit 23 is located in one of the directions around the rotation axis R1 with respect to the arm 21 (arm main body 29) (in the illustrated example, the direction opposite to the direction in which the head 3 is located with respect to the rotation axis R1; the -D3 side).

[0087] In the above configuration, by rotating the arm body 29 about the rotation axis R1, the holding unit 27 can move relatively toward and away from the standby unit 23, and can also move relatively toward and away from the head 3. From another perspective, the holding unit 27 can move relatively to the standby unit 23 and the head 3 between a position adjacent to the standby unit 23 and a position adjacent to the head 3.

[0088] Furthermore, when the holding unit 27 is positioned on the standby unit 23 side by rotation of the rotation axis R1 of the arm body 29, the holding unit 27 can move toward and away from the standby unit 23 relative to the arm body 29 in the direction indicated by arrow a4 (relative movement in the direction D3 in the illustrated example). This relative movement causes the cartridge 5 held by the holding unit 27 to be inserted into or removed from the standby unit 23 (see also FIG. 3). From another perspective, the cartridge 5 can move relatively to the standby unit 23 around the rotation axis R1 so as not to interfere with (contact with) the standby unit 23 by moving away from the standby unit 23 in the direction indicated by arrow a4.

[0089] Furthermore, when the holding unit 27 is positioned on the head 3 side by rotation of the rotation axis R1 of the arm body 29, it can move relative to the head 3, approaching or moving away from the head 3 (relative movement in the direction D3 in the illustrated example), by moving in the direction indicated by arrow a4 relative to the arm body 29. This allows the cartridge 5 held by the holding unit 27 to be in contact with or not in contact with the nozzle surface 3a (see also FIG. 3). From another perspective, by moving away from the nozzle surface 3a in the direction indicated by arrow a4, the cartridge 5 can move relative to the head 3 around the rotation axis R1 so as not to interfere with (contact with) the nozzle surface 3a.

[0090] As indicated by arrow a5, the standby section 23 is movable in a direction (D1 direction in the illustrated example) that intersects (e.g., is perpendicular to) the direction from the rotation axis R1 to the standby section 23 (D3 direction in the illustrated example). This movement direction is the arrangement direction of the multiple cartridges 5 in the standby section 23.

[0091] As a result, when the holding section 27 is positioned on the standby section 23 side by rotation of the rotation axis R1 of the arm body 29, the holding section 27 and the standby section 23 can move relatively to each other in the arrangement direction of the multiple cartridges 5 positioned in the standby section 23. This relative movement allows the holding section 27 to select an arbitrary cartridge 5 from the multiple cartridges 5 positioned in the standby section 23, for example.

[0092] 1, the relative movement of the cartridge 5 with respect to the head 3 and the standby section 23 from the standby section 23 to the position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3a occurs within a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction (direction D1) of the head 3. In other words, the relative movement of the cartridge 5 does not include a component in the direction D2, but only a component parallel to the D1-D3 plane. Specifically, after being held by the holder 27, the cartridge 5 located in the standby section 23 moves toward the +D3 side, rotates around the rotation axis R1 (arrows a2 and a3), moves toward the +D3 side, and contacts the nozzle surface 3a.

[0093] However, the relative movement of the cartridge 5 from the standby section 23 to the position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3a may include a component in the D2 direction. For example, depending on the configuration of the standby section 23, the cartridge 5 is inserted into or removed from the standby section 23 by moving in the D2 direction. Although not specifically shown, an example of such a configuration is one in which the standby section 23 has a U-shaped member with the +D2 side facing upward in a plan view (as viewed in the D3 direction), and the cartridge 5 has a flange placed on top of this U-shaped member (on the +D3 side). In such a case, the relative movement of the cartridge 5 does not fit within a plane.

[0094] In the illustrated example, the holding portion 27 (and / or the cartridge 5 held by the holding portion 27; more specifically, their centers; the same applies hereinafter in this paragraph) is located on a line intersecting the rotation axis R1 and is capable of translational movement along the line. In this case, for example, when the holding portion 27 is located directly above or directly below the rotation axis R1, the likelihood of an unnecessary moment being generated around the rotation axis R1 due to the weight of the arm 21 is reduced. However, the holding portion 27 does not have to be located on a line intersecting the rotation axis R1. In other words, the holding portion 27 may be arranged to be located on a line that is in a so-called twisted position with respect to the rotation axis R1 and to be capable of translational movement along the line.

[0095] The above configuration can be modified in various ways, examples of which are shown below.

[0096] The arrangement direction of the multiple cartridges 5 in the standby section 23 (direction D1 in the illustrated example) does not have to be perpendicular to the rotation axis R1 (more specifically, it does not have to be in a twisted position). For example, in the example of FIG. 1, the multiple cartridges 5 may be arranged in direction D2. Then, an arbitrary cartridge 5 may be selected from the multiple cartridges 5 in the standby section 23 by relative movement between the holding section 27 and the standby section 23 in direction D2. For example, in the example of FIG. 1, the standby section 23 may be movable in direction D2.

[0097] Furthermore, for example, the standby unit 23 may hold a plurality of cartridges 5 on a circumference around the rotation axis R1. In this case, the holder 27 can select any cartridge 5 from the plurality of cartridges 5 in the standby unit 23 by moving around the rotation axis R1. Therefore, the standby unit 23 may not be movable.

[0098] As described above, the standby section 23 may be capable of supporting only one cartridge 5. In such an embodiment, relative movement (arrow a5) between the holding section 27 and the standby section 23 in the arrangement direction of the multiple cartridges 5 (direction D1 in the illustrated example) is not required. For example, in the example of FIG. 1, the standby section 23 may not be movable in the direction D1.

[0099] The relative movement between the holding portion 27 and the standby portion 23 in the arrangement direction of the multiple cartridges 5 (direction D1 in the illustrated example) may be achieved by movement of the holding portion 27 instead of or in addition to movement of the standby portion 23. For example, the arm main body 29 may move in the arrangement direction, or the holding portion 27 may move relative to the arm main body 29 in the arrangement direction.

[0100] When rotation is performed around rotation axis R1, contact between the cartridge 5 held by holding portion 27 and head 3 may be permitted. Furthermore, depending on the specific configuration of standby portion 23, the number or arrangement direction of cartridges 5 arranged in standby portion 23, the method of holding cartridge 5 by holding portion 27, etc., holding portion 27 may not be able to move in the direction indicated by arrow a4 relative to arm main body 29.

[0101] The relative movement (arrow a4) of the holding unit 27 with respect to the head 3 and / or the standby unit 23 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis R1 may be realized by the arm body 29 itself moving in the absolute coordinate system, rather than the holding unit 27 moving with respect to the arm body 29. Furthermore, the relative movement (arrow a4) may be realized by the movement of the head 3 and / or the standby unit 23 instead of or in addition to the movement of the holding unit 27 and / or the arm body 29.

[0102] The standby unit 23 (and the head 3) may be disposed in any orientation around the rotation axis R1, and may not be opposed to the nozzle surface 3a across the arm 21. For example, the standby unit 23 may be disposed at the position where the attachment unit 25 is disposed in FIG.

[0103] (Configuration and Operation Related to Supply of Cleaning Liquid in First Embodiment) As described above, the adhering portion 25 applies cleaning liquid for cleaning the nozzle surface 3a to the cartridge 5. By performing wiping using the cartridge 5 to which the cleaning liquid has been applied, the cleaning effect of wiping is improved. The supply of cleaning liquid to the cartridge 5 may be performed, for example, every time wiping is performed.

[0104] 1, the attachment portion 25 is located in one of the directions around the rotation axis R1, similar to the standby portion 23. Therefore, the holding portion 27 can move relatively toward and away from the attachment portion 25 by the rotation of the arm body 29 about the rotation axis R1. When the holding portion 27 is located on the attachment portion 25 side (the -D1 side in the illustrated example), the cleaning liquid is supplied from the attachment portion 25 to the cartridge 5 (more specifically, the wiping member 13).

[0105] As can be understood from the description of the position of the standby unit 23, the attachment unit 25 may be disposed in any orientation around the rotation axis R1. In the illustrated example, the attachment unit 25 is located in an orientation between the orientation in which the head 3 is located and the orientation in which the standby unit 23 is located, and the difference in angle with each orientation is 90°.

[0106] The position of the attachment portion 25 shown in the figure can be considered to be midway along the path of relative movement of the cartridge 5 from the standby portion 23 to the position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3a. When considered in this way, in the example shown in the figure, the attachment portion 25 is located exactly in the middle of the path. However, the attachment portion 25 does not have to be located exactly in the middle. Also, unlike the above, the attachment portion 25 may be located outside the path from the standby portion 23 to the nozzle 3a. For example, the positions of the attachment portion 25 and the standby portion 23 may be reversed.

[0107] The position of the illustrated attachment portion 25 can also be considered to be between the position where the cartridge 5 supported by the standby portion 23 is held by the holding portion 27 and the position where the cartridge 5 held by the holding portion 27 contacts the nozzle surface 3a. More specifically, this can be expressed as follows: The position where the cartridge 5 is picked up is the starting point, and the position where the cartridge 5 contacts the nozzle surface 3a is the end point. Then, consider a vector extending from the starting point to the end point (a vector parallel to the direction D3 in the illustrated example). Also consider a plane that includes the starting point and is perpendicular to the above vector, and a plane that includes the end point and is perpendicular to the above vector. In this case, the attachment portion 25 (at least the opening from which the cleaning liquid comes out) is located between the above two planes.

[0108] The specific manner in which the adhering portion 25 adheres the cleaning liquid to the cartridge 5 (wiping member 13) may be any appropriate manner.

[0109] For example, the adhesion portion 25 may have a supply surface 25a facing the rotation axis R1 side, and may cause the cleaning liquid to flow out from one or more openings (not shown) that open in the supply surface 25a. At this time, the cleaning liquid may remain on the supply surface 25a in the form of droplets. The cleaning liquid may then adhere to the wiping member 13 as the wiping member 13 comes into contact with the supply surface 25a. Note that when the wiping member 13 is brought into contact with the supply surface 25a, the movement of the holding portion 27 relative to the arm body 29 in the direction indicated by arrow a4 may or may not be utilized. The same applies to the example described below.

[0110] Alternatively, for example, the cleaning liquid may be discharged from one or more openings (not shown) in the supply surface 25a while the wiping member 13 is in contact with the supply surface 25a. In this case, unlike the above, there is no need to control the flow rate so that the cleaning liquid remains on the supply surface 25a as droplets. Therefore, for example, the flow rate may be controlled based on the amount of liquid that the wiping member 13 can hold.

[0111] Furthermore, for example, adhesion portion 25 may spray the cleaning liquid in a shower or mist form from one or more openings (not shown) in supply surface 25a. In this example, movement of holding portion 27 relative to arm body 29 in the direction indicated by arrow a4 may be used (or may not be used) to bring cartridge 5 closer to supply surface 25a.

[0112] When the cleaning liquid is sprayed in a shower or mist as described above, wiping member 13 may be spaced apart from supply surface 25a. In this case, when cleaning liquid is supplied to wiping member 13 that has been used one or more times, there is a low probability that dirt on wiping member 13 will adhere to supply surface 25a. Note that in the above-described mode in which wiping member 13 is in contact with supply surface 25a, it is easy to reduce the waste of cleaning liquid.

[0113] Furthermore, for example, in a case where the adhering portion 25 is located below the rotation axis R1, or where the arm 21 is capable of more complex movements than those in the illustrated example, the adhering portion 25 may be a tank that stores cleaning liquid. The cartridge 5 may be inserted into or removed from the tank through an opening at the top of the tank, so that the cleaning liquid may adhere to the wiping member 13.

[0114] The supply of cleaning liquid to cartridge 5 may also serve as cleaning of cartridge 5. For example, in an embodiment in which cleaning liquid is supplied from supply surface 25a, attachment portion 25 may supply cleaning liquid to cartridge 5 in an amount that causes the cleaning liquid to flow down from cartridge 5. In an embodiment in which cartridge 5 is immersed in cleaning liquid stored in a tank, cleaning of cartridge 5 is achieved to some extent.

[0115] The cleaning liquid (components) may take various forms, and may be similar to known forms, for example. Examples of cleaning liquids include those that are the same as or similar to the solvent of the liquid ejected by the head 3. That is, the cleaning liquid may be the same as or similar to the liquid ejected by the head 3, except that it does not contain a colorant. For example, the cleaning liquid may be water or an organic solvent. The cleaning liquid may contain surfactants, preservatives, antifungal agents, and the like, which may or may not be contained in the liquid ejected by the head 3.

[0116] Note that wiping may be performed without supplying cleaning liquid. For example, wiping may be performed after printing without supplying cleaning liquid. In this case, for example, ink adhering to the nozzle surface 3a during printing is wiped off by the cartridge 5. Also, wiping may be performed without supplying cleaning liquid after so-called capping cleaning.

[0117] Cleaning by capping is performed, for example, as follows. First, a cap (not shown) is placed over the nozzle surface 3a (this is called capping), creating a substantially sealed space between the nozzle surface 3a and the cap. In this state, liquid is repeatedly ejected from the head 3 to remove liquid and / or foreign matter that has become more viscous than normal and that has clogged the nozzles 11. The cap may then be removed, and wiping may be performed.

[0118] (Example of holding part) Various configurations are possible for the holding portion 27 to hold and release the cartridge 5. Some examples are given below.

[0119] The holding portion 27 may, for example, grip the cartridge 5 (illustrated example). For example, a known gripper for picking up products in the technical field of industrial robots may be applied as the holding portion 27 for such gripping. Note that, for convenience, the description of the embodiment may be given on the assumption that the holding portion 27 grips the cartridge 5.

[0120] Furthermore, for example, the holder 27 may adsorb the cartridge 5. The adsorption may be, for example, by vacuum adsorption, electrostatic adsorption, or electromagnet adsorption. For example, a known end effector for picking up products in the technical field of industrial robots may be applied as the holder 27 that performs such adsorption.

[0121] Furthermore, for example, the holding portion 27 may hold the cartridge 5 by a clamping mechanism such as the spindle of a machine tool. Specifically, for example, the rear end portion of the cartridge 5 may be pulled into a tapered hole of the holding portion 27 by the clamping mechanism in the holding portion 27, and the rear end portion may be positioned by the inner circumferential surface of the hole.

[0122] The examples of grasping, suction, or clamping described above can be said to be modes in which the holding unit 27 (more specifically, a driving unit such as a motor, air cylinder, or electrode) is driven, or modes in which it functions actively.

[0123] Unlike the above, the holding portion 27 does not have to be configured to function actively. For example, a convex portion formed on one of the cartridge 5 and the holding portion 27 may be pressed (pushed) into a concave portion formed on the other of the cartridge 5 and the holding portion 27 by relative movement of the holding portion 27 with respect to the standby portion 23. The cartridge 5 may then be held in the holding portion 27 by friction between the outer surface of the convex portion and the inner surface of the concave portion. When removing the cartridge 5, the holding portion 27 may be moved relative to the standby portion 23 so as to pull the convex portion out of the concave portion while the cartridge 5 is hooked on an appropriate portion of the standby portion 23. Alternatively, a spring-loaded engagement claw may be engaged when the convex portion is inserted into the concave portion, or the engagement claw may be disengaged by abutting the engagement claw against an appropriate portion of the standby portion 23.

[0124] The mechanism for holding and releasing may be provided in the cartridge 5, rather than in the holding portion 27. For example, the above-described engagement claw may be provided in the cartridge 5, rather than in the holding portion 27. However, providing the mechanism in the holding portion 27 makes it easier to reduce the overall cost of the wiper 9.

[0125] 4 is a block diagram that mainly shows a schematic configuration of a control system of the liquid ejection device 1. Please refer to FIG. 4 as needed in the following description.

[0126] Various specific configurations are possible for the holding portion 27 that grips the cartridge 5. For example, they are as follows.

[0127] The holder 27 may have a base 27a and two fingers 27b extending from the base 27a. The two fingers 27b are movable parallel to each other in the opposing direction of the two fingers 27b (direction D1 in FIG. 4). This allows the cartridge 5 to be sandwiched and gripped between the two fingers 27b. The specific shapes of the base 27a and the fingers 27b are arbitrary. Unlike the above, the two fingers 27b may rotate around the base side as a rotation axis to sandwich the cartridge 5. The holder 27 may also have two or more fingers.

[0128] The two (or more; the same applies below) fingers 27b are connected to one driving source 27c via, for example, a connecting mechanism (e.g., a link mechanism) not shown, and are driven together by the driving source 27c. However, two driving sources 27c may be provided for the two fingers 27b. The driving source 27c may generate rotational motion or linear motion. The type of motion of the driving source and the type of motion of the fingers 27b may be different by interposing a mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear motion or a mechanism that converts linear motion into rotational motion between the driving source and the fingers 27b. The type of motion of both may be the same without the interposition of such a mechanism.

[0129] Specific examples of the driving source 27c include a motor (when simply referring to a motor, it refers to an electric motor; the same applies below), an air cylinder, an air motor, a hydraulic cylinder, or a hydraulic motor. The motor may be a rotary motor or a linear motor. Furthermore, examples of mechanisms that convert rotary motion into linear motion and / or linear motion into rotary motion include a link mechanism, a ball screw mechanism, a rack and pinion mechanism, and a cam mechanism. A mechanism that contributes to speeding up or slowing down (e.g., a gear mechanism or a winding transmission mechanism) may be interposed between the driving source 27c and the finger 27b. Note that, for later reference, driving sources and mechanisms that are not necessarily suitable for the holding unit 27 are also exemplified here.

[0130] The two fingers 27b, for example, hold the gripped portion 15b (a narrow portion from another perspective) of the cartridge 5 in the wiping direction (direction D1). However, the two fingers 27b may hold the gripped portion 15b in other directions and / or hold other portions (portions that are not narrow).

[0131] The holding part 27, for example, holds the cartridge 5 between two fingers 27b with the base 27a facing the cartridge 5 from the rear of the cartridge 5 (the side opposite the wiping member 13). At this time, the tips of the two fingers 27b may or may not abut against the main part 15a of the cartridge 5. Also, the rear end of the gripped part 15b may or may not abut against the base 27a. The holding part 27 may hold the cartridge 5 between two fingers 27b with the base 27a facing the cartridge 5 from the side of the cartridge 5 (direction D2).

[0132] Although not specifically shown, the surfaces of the two fingers 27b that contact the grasped portion 15b and / or the surfaces of the grasped portion 15b that contact the fingers 27b may be provided with a structure for restricting relative movement of these two surfaces in a direction along the two surfaces. For example, one of the two surfaces may be provided with a convex portion that protrudes in the opposing direction of the two surfaces, and the other surface may be provided with a concave portion into which the convex portion fits. Also, for example, a sheet made of a material (e.g., rubber) with a higher friction coefficient than the surface of a member (e.g., metal, resin, or ceramic) that constitutes the fingers 27b may be overlaid.

[0133] (Example of an arm) Various configurations are possible for the arm 21 that realizes the relative movement of the holding portion 27 with respect to the head 3 and the standby portion 23. Specific configurations will be illustrated below, focusing on the examples shown in the drawings.

[0134] As described above, the arm 21 has, for example, the arm main body 29 and the holding part 27. The arm 21 also has, for example, a base body (not shown), and the arm main body 29 is supported rotatably around the rotation axis R1 relative to the base body.

[0135] The arm 21 has the following driving sources for driving each part: A driving source 33 that rotates the arm body 29 around the rotation axis R1 relative to the base body; A driving source 35 that moves the holding part 27 (base part 27a) in the direction of arrow a4 relative to the arm body 29; and A driving source 27c (already described) that drives the fingers 27b of the holding part 27.

[0136] The driving source 33 is provided, for example, on the base body or the arm main body 29. The driving source 35 is provided, for example, on the arm main body 29 or the holding portion 27 (base portion 27a). The driving source 27c is provided, for example, on the base portion 27a.

[0137] The above description of drive source 27c may be applied to drive sources 33 and 35. To be clear, the description of drive source 27c will be simplified again. For example, these drive sources may generate rotational or linear motion. The type of motion of the drive source (linear or rotational motion) may be the same as or different from the motion of the object to be driven (arm main body 29 or base 27a). The drive source may be electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic. An appropriate mechanism for transmitting a driving force may be interposed between the drive source and the object to be controlled (arm main body 29 or base 27a).

[0138] The specific mechanism by which the arm main body 29 is supported rotatably about the rotation axis R1 relative to a base (not shown) may be similar to various known mechanisms. For example, an appropriate bearing may be provided. Similarly, the specific mechanism by which the holding portion 27 is supported translatably relative to the arm main body 29 may be similar to various known mechanisms. For example, an appropriate linear guide may be provided. The same applies to other relatively rotating members and relatively translating members, and the explanation in this paragraph may be applied to other members even if not specifically mentioned.

[0139] (Example of a waiting section) The standby unit 23 may have various configurations, for example, as follows.

[0140] The standby section 23 may be in the shape of a container, as in the illustrated example. The cartridge 5 may be supported by the container by being placed on the bottom of the container. The internal width (direction D2) of the container may be equal to or greater than the maximum width of the portion of the cartridge 5 that is housed in the container, and may be, for example, less than or approximately equal to the maximum width.

[0141] Also, unlike the illustrated example, the standby section 23 may be basket-shaped. The cartridge 5 may be supported on the bottom of the basket. For example, the standby section 23 may have a frame-shaped member that supports a flange provided on the cartridge 5. The frame-shaped member may have, for example, two beams extending parallel to each other in the D1 direction, and the two beams may support multiple cartridges 5. Alternatively, the frame-shaped member may have, in addition to or instead of the two beams, multiple beams extending parallel to each other in the D2 direction, and one cartridge 5 may be supported by two adjacent beams.

[0142] Various other configurations are possible for the standby unit 23. Other examples will be mentioned in other embodiments and will be described later with reference to FIGS.

[0143] The wiper 9 has, for example, a bed 43 that supports the standby unit 23 so that the standby unit 23 is movable in the direction indicated by the arrow a5, and a drive source 37 that drives the standby unit 23 relative to the bed 43 in the direction indicated by the arrow a5.

[0144] Bed 43 may be fixed to, for example, a base (not shown) (as described above) that supports arm body 29 rotatably around rotation axis R1. In this case, when the transition between a state in which head 3 faces the recording medium and a state in which head 3 faces wiper 9 is achieved by movement of wiper 9, arm 21 and standby unit 23 move together.

[0145] The above description of drive source 27c may be applied to drive source 37. Just to be sure, the description of drive source 37a will be simplified and repeated. For example, drive source 37 may generate rotational or linear motion. The type of motion of drive source 37 (linear or rotational motion) and the motion of the object to be driven (standby section 23) may be the same or different. Drive source 39 may be electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic. An appropriate mechanism for transmitting driving force may be interposed between drive source 37 and standby section 23.

[0146] (Example of attachment part) As described above, the cleaning liquid may be attached to the wiping member 13 by contacting the wiping member 13 with the supply surface 25a, by spraying the cleaning liquid from the supply surface 25a, or by immersing the wiping member 13 in the cleaning liquid stored in a tank. The configuration of the attachment portion 25 may be appropriately determined depending on such various supply modes.

[0147] For example, although not shown, adhesion unit 25 in an embodiment in which cleaning liquid is supplied from supply surface 25a may include a tank that stores cleaning liquid and a pump that delivers the cleaning liquid from the tank to supply surface 25a. A valve that adjusts the flow rate may be provided between the pump and supply surface 25a. The amount of cleaning liquid supplied may be controlled by adjusting the pump and / or the valve.

[0148] The attachment portion 25 may be fixed to, for example, a base (not shown) (as described above) that rotatably supports the arm body 29 around the rotation axis R1. In this case, for example, when the transition between a state in which the head 3 faces the recording medium and a state in which the head 3 faces the wiper 9 is achieved by the movement of the wiper 9, the attachment portion 25 and the arm 21 move together.

[0149] (Example of a wiper control system) The wiping and cartridge 5 replacement operations described above are realized, for example, by the control device 31 controlling the components of the device 1. The control device 31 may be configured, for example, by a computer. The computer, for example, includes a central processing unit (CPU), read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and an external storage device (not shown). The CPU executes programs stored in the ROM and / or the external storage device to implement various functional units that perform control, etc. The control device 31 may be distributed in hardware to multiple locations, or may include a logic circuit that performs only certain processes.

[0150] Objects controlled by the control device 31 include, for example, the drive sources 33, 35, 27c, and 37 already described, as well as a pump and / or a valve (not shown) of the attachment portion 25. Another example is a drive source 39 that drives the head 3 in the direction indicated by the arrow a1. The description of the drive source 27c may also be applied to the drive source 39. For example, the drive source 39 may generate rotational or linear motion. The type of motion of the drive source 39 (linear or rotational motion) may be the same as or different from the motion of the object being driven (head 3). The drive source 39 may be electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic. An appropriate mechanism for transmitting driving force may be interposed between the drive source 39 and the head 3.

[0151] In the illustrated example, drive sources 33, 35, 37, and 39 are configured by motors, as represented by circles with an M attached. In this case, these drive sources are controlled by control device 31 via drivers (reference numeral omitted) represented by rectangles with a D attached. Note that, unlike in FIG. 4, control device 31 may be defined to include a driver. In addition, in the illustrated example, drive source 27c is configured by an air cylinder. In this case, control device 31 controls drive source 27c via a pneumatic circuit 41 located inside or outside holding unit 27.

[0152] Although not specifically shown, the device 1 may have sensors that detect the positions of the control objects (such as the arm body 29, the base 27a, the fingers 27b, the standby section 23, and / or the head 3). The control device 31 may perform feedback control (full-closed type) based on signals from the sensors. Alternatively, the control device 31 may perform feedback control (semi-closed type) based on signals from sensors included in various drive sources and / or signals from drivers. The control device 31 may also perform open-loop control without feedback.

[0153] (Summary of the first embodiment) As described above, the liquid ejection device 1 has the liquid ejection head 3, the standby unit 23, the holding unit 27, and the operating unit 45 (arm 21). The head 3 has a nozzle surface 3a. The operating unit 45 moves the holding unit 27 relative to the standby unit 23 and the head 3 from a position where the wiping cartridge 5, which is not held by the holding unit 27 but is supported by the standby unit 23, is held by the holding unit 27 to a position where the cartridge 5 held by the holding unit 27 comes into contact with the nozzle surface 3a.

[0154] Therefore, for example, as described above, the cartridge 5 can be replaced without manual labor, improving user convenience. Furthermore, the cartridge 5 is replaced by moving the holding unit 27 to the standby unit 23, rather than by a robot separate from the arm 21 transporting the cartridge 5 from the standby unit 23 to the holding unit 27. Therefore, for example, the overall configuration of the device for replacement can be simplified, which in turn can reduce costs.

[0155] The standby unit 23 may simultaneously support a first number (six in FIG. 1) of two or more cartridges 5. The holding unit 27 may pick up a number of cartridges 5 (one in FIG. 1) that is less than the first number from the first number of cartridges 5 supported by the standby unit 23.

[0156] In this case, for example, a plurality of unused cartridges 5 can be kept on standby in the standby section 23. As a result, compared to an embodiment in which only one unused cartridge 5 is kept on standby in the standby section 23 (this embodiment is also included in the technology according to the present disclosure), the frequency with which the user replenishes the standby section 23 with unused cartridges 5 is reduced. Consequently, user convenience is improved. Also, for example, different types of cartridges 5 can be placed in the standby section 23, and a cartridge 5 can be selected according to the state of the nozzle surface 3a. As a result, cleaning of the nozzle surface 3a is performed effectively.

[0157] The device 1 may return the cartridge 5 that has wiped the nozzle surface 3a to the standby section .

[0158] In this case, for example, since both used cartridges 5 and unused cartridges 5 are located in the standby section 23, management of the cartridges 5 is easy. For example, in an embodiment in which used cartridges 5 are placed in a collection section separate from the standby section 23 (this embodiment is also included in the technology according to the present disclosure), the cartridges 5 are collected from the collection section and replenished with cartridges 5 in the standby section 23. However, in this embodiment, the cartridges 5 are collected and replenished in the standby section 23. Also, for example, a cartridge 5 returned to the standby section 23 can be picked up and used again. This allows, for example, in an embodiment in which multiple types of cartridges 5 are used, a specific cartridge 5 (5B) to be repeatedly used between uses of one or more other cartridges 5 (5A).

[0159] The device 1 may return the cartridge 5 that has wiped the nozzle surface 3a to its original position in the standby section .

[0160] In this case, for example, the positions of used cartridges 5 and unused cartridges 5 are not swapped, reducing the likelihood of confusing them. From another perspective, the operation (in other words, the program) for preventing the confusion between used cartridges 5 and unused cartridges 5 is simplified. For example, if the operating unit 45 picks up cartridges 5 in a pre-assigned order from multiple locations in the waiting unit 23, the cartridges 5 can be picked up without being confused. From another perspective, the control device 31 does not need to store the correspondence between which cartridges 5 are placed in which locations. Such an effect is also achieved when replacing cartridges 5 of different types.

[0161] The device 1 may have an adhering unit 25 that adheres cleaning liquid to the cartridge 5 midway along the path of relative movement of the cartridge 5 from the standby unit 23 to the position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3 a. From another perspective, the device 1 may have an adhering unit 25 that adheres cleaning liquid to the cartridge between the position where the cartridge 5 supported by the standby unit 23 is held by the holding unit 27 and the position where the cartridge 5 held by the holding unit 27 contacts the nozzle surface 3 a.

[0162] In this case, it is easy to shorten the path along which the holder 27 moves when, for example, replacing the cartridge 5, supplying cleaning liquid to the cartridge 5, and performing wiping operations. As a result, it is easy to make the device 1 smaller.

[0163] The cartridge 5 may have a gripped portion 15b that is gripped by the holding portion 27, located rearward of the portion that contacts the nozzle surface 3a (the tip end portion of the wiping member 13). The width of the gripped portion 15b in a predetermined direction (direction D1 in the illustrated example) perpendicular to the direction from the tip end to the rear end of the cartridge 5 is smaller than the width of at least another part of the cartridge 5 (such as the main portion 15a) in the predetermined direction.

[0164] In this case, for example, when multiple cartridges 5 are arranged in the waiting section 23 in the D1 direction, the gripped portions 15b are spaced apart from one another, allowing the fingers 27b to be inserted into the gaps. This facilitates gripping by the holding section 27. Furthermore, for example, engagement of the fingers 27b with the main portion 15a reduces the likelihood of relative movement between the two. Furthermore, for example, the engagement positions the fingers 27b and the gripped portions 15b, reducing variation in their relative positions and stabilizing holding. These effects can be achieved with a simple structure that simply narrows the gripped portions 15b. As a result, for example, it becomes easier to inexpensively manufacture disposable cartridges 5, and the costs associated with disposing of and replacing cartridges 5 can be reduced.

[0165] The first number of cartridges 5 (two or more cartridges 5 that can be supported by the standby section 23) may each have a wiping member 13 that contacts the nozzle surface 3a. The first number of cartridges 5 may include two or more types of cartridges 5 (first cartridge 5A and second cartridge 5B) whose wiping members 13 are made of different materials.

[0166] In this case, for example, wiping can be performed by the cartridge 5 according to the state of the nozzle surface 3a. As a result, for example, dirt on the nozzle surface 3a can be efficiently removed.

[0167] In the device 1, the relative movement of the cartridge 5 from the standby section 23 to the position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3a may be performed within a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction of the head 3 (plane D1-D3 in the illustrated example).

[0168] In this case, since the holding portion 27 does not move in the direction D2 during the relative movement from the standby portion 23 to the nozzle surface 3a, it is easy to reduce the size of the wiper 9 in the direction D2. Just to be clear, the relative movement referred to here does not include relative movement "only" due to the transition between a state in which the head 3 and the recording medium face each other and a state in which the head 3 and the wiper 9 face each other.

[0169] The nozzle surface 3a may face one side (-D3 side) of the first direction (D3 direction in the illustrated example). The operating unit 45 (arm 21, drive source 37, etc.) may have a support unit (arm main body 29) located on the -D3 side with respect to the head 3. The arm main body 29 may be rotatable around a rotation axis R1 perpendicular to the D3 direction. The holding unit 27 may be supported by the arm main body 29 so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis R1 (direction indicated by arrow a4). The standby unit 23 may be located in any orientation around the rotation axis R1 with respect to the arm main body 29.

[0170] In this case, for example, the head 3 and the standby section 23 can be disposed at different heights (positions in the D3 direction). As a result, for example, it is easy to reduce the size of the device 1 in the D1-D2 plane compared to the second and third embodiments described below. When the device 1 is large enough to be disposed in a factory, it is possible to save floor space in the factory.

[0171] Second Embodiment (Configuration and operation related to cartridge replacement) FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of a liquid ejection device 201 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "device 201") according to the second embodiment.

[0172] Similar to the wiper 9 of the device 1 of the first embodiment, the wiper 209 of the device 201 moves the holder 27 relative to the standby section 23 and the head 3, thereby holding the cartridge 5 supported by the standby section 23 in the holder 27 and moving the cartridge 5 held by the holder 27 to a position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3a. However, the specific manner of this relative movement differs from that of the first embodiment. For example, it is as follows.

[0173] Unlike the first embodiment, the standby unit 23 is located in a direction (D1 direction) perpendicular to the direction in which the nozzle surface 3a faces relative to the head 3. The arm body 29 of the arm 221 is located on the side (-D3 side) on which the nozzle surface 3a faces relative to the head 3 and the standby unit 23. Unlike the first embodiment, the arm body 29 is not rotatable around the rotation axis R1. Instead, as indicated by arrow a21, the arm body 29 is movable in parallel in the D1 direction (the direction in which the head 3 and the standby unit 23 are aligned). As in the first embodiment, the holding unit 27 is movable relative to the arm body 29 in the direction indicated by arrow a4 (D3 direction).

[0174] In the above configuration, by translating the arm body 29 in the D1 direction, the holding unit 27 can move relatively toward and away from the standby unit 23, and can also move relatively toward and away from the head 3. From another perspective, the holding unit 27 can move relatively to the standby unit 23 and the head 3 between a position adjacent to the standby unit 23 and a position adjacent to the head 3.

[0175] When the arm body 29 is positioned on the standby section 23 side in the D1 direction, the holding section 27 can move the cartridge 5 in and out of the standby section 23 by moving in the direction indicated by arrow a4 relative to the arm body 29, as in the first embodiment. Furthermore, when the arm body 29 is positioned on the head 3 side in the D1 direction, the holding section 27 can bring the cartridge 5 into or out of contact with the nozzle surface 3a by moving in the direction indicated by arrow a4 relative to the arm body 29, as in the first embodiment.

[0176] As can be understood from the above description, in the second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, the relative movement of the cartridge 5 from the standby section 23 to the position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3a (relative movement with respect to the head 3 and standby section 23) occurs within a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction (direction D1) of the head 3. In other words, the relative movement of the cartridge 5 does not include a component in the direction D2. However, the movement of the cartridge 5 may include a component in the direction D2 due to, for example, a misalignment between the position of the head 3 in the direction D2 and the position of the standby section 23 in the direction D2.

[0177] In the standby section 23, a plurality of cartridges 5 are arranged in the D1 direction. Therefore, by moving the arm body 29 (holding section 27) in the D1 direction between the standby section 23 and the head 3, the holding section 27 can be selectively positioned with respect to a plurality of cartridges 5 supported in the standby section 23. Therefore, unlike the first embodiment, movement of the standby section 23 in the D1 direction (arrangement direction of the cartridges 5) is not necessary. Of course, the standby section 23 may be movable for some purpose.

[0178] The translation of the arm body 29 (holding portion 27) back and forth between the standby portion 23 and the head 3 is performed in a direction parallel to the nozzle surface 3a (more specifically, for example, the D1 direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the nozzle surface 3a). Therefore, this translation of the holding portion 27 can be used to slide the cartridge 5 over the nozzle surface 3a (to perform wiping). Consequently, in this embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, movement of the head 3 in the D1 direction (wiping direction) is not necessary. Of course, the head 3 may be movable for some purpose.

[0179] The translation of the arm body 29 may be realized by an appropriate configuration. In the illustrated example, the arm body 29 is supported by a bed 247 so as to be able to translate. As already mentioned, in such a configuration, a linear guide or the like may be provided as appropriate. The arm body 29 moves when a driving force is applied by the driving source 233. The above explanation of the driving source 27c and the like may be applied to the driving source 233.

[0180] In the illustrated example, the cartridge 5 placed in the standby section 23 is removed from below by the arm 221. The standby section 23 (and the holding section 27) may have various configurations to achieve such an operation.

[0181] For example, although not specifically shown, multiple claws made of an elastic material may be provided in the standby section 23. Each cartridge 5 may be held in the standby section 23 by a part thereof (for example, a flange) being supported by the multiple claws. When removing the cartridge 5 from the standby section 23 or returning it to the standby section 23, the claws may be deformed by moving the holding section 27 in the direction indicated by arrow a4, thereby disengaging or engaging the claws. The above operation may be achieved by a claw made of a hard material and a spring that imparts a restoring force to the claw.

[0182] Furthermore, for example, although not specifically shown, a magnet or an electromagnet may be provided in the standby section 23. The cartridge 5 may be supported in the standby section 23 by being attracted by the magnet or electromagnet. When removing the cartridge 5 from the standby section 23, the cartridge 5 may be separated from the standby section 23 against the attraction force by moving the holding section 27 in the direction indicated by arrow a4.

[0183] Furthermore, for example, although not particularly shown, a support member that is U-shaped in plan view (as viewed in the D3 direction) may be provided in the standby section 23. Then, the cartridge 5 may be moved into the U-shape by movement within the D1-D2 plane, and a part of the cartridge 5 (for example, a flange) may be positioned on the support member.

[0184] (Configuration and operation related to supply of cleaning liquid) In the second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, an adhesion unit 25 that adheres cleaning liquid to the cartridge 5 is provided midway along the path of relative movement of the cartridge 5 from the standby unit 23 to the position where it contacts the nozzle surface 3a. In other words, the adhesion unit 25 is located between the position (starting point) where the cartridge 5 supported by the standby unit 23 is held by the holding unit 27 and the position (ending point) where the cartridge 5 held by the holding unit 27 contacts the nozzle surface 3a (between a plane that is perpendicular to the vector from the starting point to the ending point and includes the starting point, and a plane that is perpendicular to the vector and includes the ending point).

[0185] Specifically, in the illustrated example, the attachment unit 25 is adjacent to the standby unit 23 side of the head 3 and is fixed together with the head 3 by a frame 249 (support member). The material, shape, and dimensions of the frame 249 are arbitrary. The frame 249 may be a member that supports the head 3 and the attachment unit 25. When the head 3 and the attachment unit 25 are fixed in this manner, the head 3, the attachment unit 25, and the frame 249 may be considered to constitute a unit 251. The unit 251 may also be considered as a head. In the illustrated example, the nozzle surface 3a and the supply surface 25a of the attachment unit 25 are not flush with each other, and a step is generated between them. However, the nozzle surface 3a and the supply surface 25a may be smoothly connected by making them flush with each other or by making the supply surface 25a an inclined surface.

[0186] The unit 251 and the standby section 23 may or may not be capable of relative movement. In the latter case, the movement may be, for example, a movement related to a transition between a state in which the head 3 and the recording medium (a transport section that transports the recording medium) face each other and a state in which the head 3 and a part of the wiper 209 (excluding the adhesion section 25) face each other. For example, after the transport section retracts from below the head 3, the bed 247 (arm 221) and the standby section 23 may move together to assume the positional relationship shown in FIG. 5.

[0187] Unlike the above, the state transition may involve, for example, movement of the head 3. Furthermore, for example, a state transition may be performed by inserting and removing a transport unit between the stationary bed 247 and the head 3 while the arm 221 is positioned on the standby section 223 side in the D1 direction. In other words, movement of the wiper 209 "only" for the state transition, separate from movement of the cartridge 5 by the operating unit 245 from the standby section 23 to a position where it can contact the nozzle surface 3a, may not be performed. Furthermore, for example, a state transition may be performed by moving only the bed 247 of the bed 247 and the standby section 23.

[0188] The operation of the operating unit 245 (arm 221, etc.) may be basically the same as that of the operating unit 45 in the first embodiment, except for the points described above. However, since the attachment unit 25 is adjacent to the head 3, the operation of the operating unit 245 may differ from that in the first embodiment. For example, after the cartridge 5 held by the holder 27 comes into contact with the supply surface 25a of the attachment unit 25, it may move in the direction D1 while maintaining the position in the direction D3 at the time of contact. In other words, the cartridge 5 may come into contact with the nozzle surface 3a by moving in the direction D1, rather than by moving in the direction indicated by arrow a4.

[0189] (Modification of the second embodiment) The configuration of the second embodiment can be modified in various ways, for example as follows.

[0190] As mentioned in the first embodiment, it is also possible to eliminate the need for movement of the holder 27 in the direction indicated by arrow a4. From another perspective, when the arm body 29 is moving in the D1 direction from the standby unit 23 side to the head 3 side, the cartridge 5 may be allowed to come into contact with the nozzle surface 3a. Furthermore, the standby unit 23 may be configured so that movement of the holder 27 in the direction indicated by arrow a4 is unnecessary.

[0191] The difference between the first and second embodiments can be understood as the difference between rotational movement (rotational movement) and linear movement (translation movement) in the movement (movement) of the arm body 29 between the standby section 23 and the head 3. When considered in this way, the direction of translation is not limited to the D1 direction, but may also be the D2 direction. From another perspective, the direction of translation is not limited to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle surface 3a, but may also be the lateral direction of the nozzle surface 3a.

[0192] The first embodiment can be understood as an embodiment in which the arm body 29 moves within the D1-D3 plane, and the second embodiment can be understood as an embodiment in which the arm body 29 moves within the D1-D2 plane. In this case, the movement of the arm body 29 in the first embodiment is not limited to rotational movement and may include translational movement within the D1-D3 plane. The movement of the arm body 29 in the second embodiment is not limited to translational movement and may include rotational movement within the D1-D2 plane. For example, although not specifically shown, in a modification of the second embodiment, the arm may be formed by the arm body 29 that rotates about a rotation axis parallel to the D3 direction and the holder 27 supported by the arm body 29 so as to be movable in the D3 direction. In either embodiment, the trajectory of the cartridge 5 is not limited to a simple trajectory such as a circle or a straight line, but may be any trajectory.

[0193] The multiple cartridges 5 may be arranged in the D2 direction in the standby section 23. In this case, for example, an arbitrary cartridge 5 may be selected from the multiple cartridges 5 by moving the standby section 23 in the D2 direction or by moving the arm 221 in the D2 direction.

[0194] (Summary of the second embodiment) As described above, in this embodiment as well, the operating unit 245 moves the holding unit 27 relative to the standby unit 23 and the head 3 from a position where the cartridge 5, which is not held by the holding unit 27 but is supported by the standby unit 23, is held by the holding unit 27 to a position where the cartridge 5 held by the holding unit 27 contacts the nozzle surface 3a. Therefore, the same effects as in the first embodiment are achieved. For example, the cartridge 5 can be replaced without manual labor, improving user convenience.

[0195] As shown in this embodiment, the nozzle surface 3a may face one side (-D3 side) of a first direction (D3 direction in the illustrated example). The standby unit 23 may be located in a second direction (D1 direction) perpendicular to the D3 direction relative to the head 3. The support unit (arm main body 29) may be located on the +D3 side (the side facing the nozzle surface 3a) relative to the head 3 and the standby unit 23. The arm main body 29 may be movable in the D1 direction. The holder 27 may be supported by the arm main body 29 so as to be movable in the D2 direction.

[0196] In this case, for example, as described above, since the arm body 29 can be moved in a direction along the nozzle surface 3a, the relative movement of the cartridge 5 for wiping and the relative movement of the cartridge 5 reciprocating between the standby section 23 and the head 3 can be achieved by the same configuration (for example, the drive source 233). As a result, it is easy to reduce the size of the wiper 209. Furthermore, when multiple cartridges 5 are arranged in the standby section 23 in the D1 direction, the relative movement for selecting a specific cartridge 5 from the multiple cartridges 5 can also be achieved by the same configuration (for example, the drive source 233).

[0197] <Third embodiment> FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of a liquid ejection device 301 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "device 301") according to the third embodiment.

[0198] In the second embodiment, the arm 221 moves in the absolute coordinate system, causing the arm 221 to move relative to the head 3 and the standby unit 23. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, as shown by arrow a31, the head 3 and the standby unit 23 move in the absolute coordinate system, causing the arm 221 to move relative to the head 3 and the standby unit 23. In other respects, the third embodiment is generally similar to the second embodiment. Various more specific configurations of the third embodiment are possible. The illustrated example is as follows.

[0199] In the illustrated example, the head 3, the attachment unit 25, and the standby unit 23 are fixed to one another by a frame 349. The description of the frame 249 in the second embodiment may be applied to the frame 349. The frame 349 is applied with a driving force by the driving source 333 and moves in the D1 direction. The description of the driving source 27c, etc. may be applied to the driving source 333.

[0200] The arm 221 may be provided immovably or movably. In the latter case, the movement may be, for example, a movement related to a transition between a state in which the head 3 and the recording medium (a transport unit that transports the recording medium) face each other and a state in which the head 3 and the arm 221 (a part of the wiper 309) face each other. Note that, unlike the above, the frame 349 may move, for example, during the state transition.

[0201] As described above, in this embodiment as well, the operating unit 345 moves the holding unit 27 relative to the standby unit 23 and the head 3 from a position where the cartridge 5, which is not held by the holding unit 27 but is supported by the standby unit 23, is held by the holding unit 27 to a position where the cartridge 5 held by the holding unit 27 contacts the nozzle surface 3a. Therefore, the same effects as in the first embodiment are achieved. For example, the cartridge 5 can be replaced without manual labor, improving user convenience.

[0202] As shown in this embodiment, the nozzle surface 3a may face one side (-D3 side) of a first direction (D3 direction in the illustrated example). The standby unit 23 may be located in a second direction (D1 direction) perpendicular to the D3 direction relative to the head 3. The operating unit 345 may have a moving unit (frame 349) and a support unit (arm main body 29). The frame 349 may support the head 3 and the standby unit 23 and may be movable in the D1 direction. The arm main body 29 may be located on the +D3 side (the side facing the nozzle surface 3a) relative to the head 3 and the standby unit 23. The holding unit 27 may be supported by the arm main body 29 so as to be movable in the D2 direction.

[0203] In this case, the relative movement of the holding portion 27 with respect to the head 3 and the standby portion 23 is performed in a direction along the nozzle surface 3a. Therefore, for example, the same effects as those of the second embodiment can be achieved. For example, the relative movement of the cartridge 5 (holding portion 27) for wiping and the relative movement of the cartridge 5 (holding portion 27) reciprocating between the standby portion 23 and the head 3 can be achieved by the same configuration (for example, the frame 349 and the drive source 333). As a result, it is easy to reduce the size of the wiper 309. In the second embodiment, movement of the head 3 can be eliminated, and in the third embodiment, movement of the arm 221 can be eliminated. Either of these may be selected depending on the overall configuration of the liquid ejection device, etc.

[0204] <Modifications, etc.> Below, we will explain three modified examples of the waiting section 23 (Figures 7 to 9), an example of a process related to automatic replacement of the cartridge 5 (Figure 10), a modified example of the wiping operation (Figure 11), a specific example of a printer (Figures 12 and 13), and an example of a configuration for wiping multiple heads 3 (Figure 14).

[0205] (First modified example of the standby section) FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a standby section 23A and a cartridge 5C according to a modified example.

[0206] In this modified example, the cartridge 5C is configured not to come into contact with the bottom surface of the standby section 23A (container 23a). This reduces the likelihood that, for example, cleaning liquid dripping from a used cartridge 5C (or, from another perspective, dirt contained in the cleaning liquid) will run down the bottom surface of the standby section 23A and adhere to an unused cartridge 5C. Specifically, for example, as follows.

[0207] The standby section 23A has a container 23a, for example, similar to the standby section 23 of the embodiment. The cartridge 5C has a wiping member 13 and a holder 15C that holds the wiping member 13, similar to the cartridge 5 of the embodiment. The gripped portion 15d of the holder 15C is larger than the opening of the container 23a in the direction D2 (a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the multiple cartridges 5). Therefore, when an attempt is made to place the cartridge 5C in the container 23a, the gripped portion 15d engages with the upper ends 23b of a pair of side surfaces (surfaces perpendicular to the direction D2) of the container 23a from above. At this time, the wiping member 13 is separated from the bottom surface of the container 23a, as indicated by arrow a41.

[0208] This modified example can be further modified in various ways, for example as follows.

[0209] A pair of inner surfaces of the container 23a facing each other in the direction D2 may each be provided with a beam extending in the direction D1. A portion of the cartridge 5C whose length in the direction D2 is longer than the distance between the pair of beams may be supported by the pair of beams. When supported in this manner, the wiping member 13 may be spaced apart from the bottom surface of the container 23a.

[0210] A plurality of beams may be arranged in the D1 direction, extending in the D2 direction and spanning a pair of opposing side surfaces of the container 23a in the D2 direction. Each cartridge 5C may be disposed between two adjacent beams. A portion of the cartridge 5C whose length in the D1 direction is longer than the distance between the two beams may be supported by the two beams. When supported in this manner, the wiping member 13 may be spaced apart from the bottom surface of the container 23a. The height (position in the D3 direction) of the upper surface of the beam may be the same as or lower than the height of the upper end 23b of the container 23a.

[0211] The frame structure having beams extending in the D1 direction and / or beams extending in the D2 direction as described above and the container 23a located below it may be constructed separately. The frame structure and the container 23a may be fixed to each other in an easily detachable manner.

[0212] As described in the second embodiment, the cartridge 5 may be supported by a claw, a magnet, or an electromagnet in the waiting section 23. By providing these components at an appropriate height relative to the container 23a, the cartridge 5 may be supported in the waiting section 23 at a position away from the bottom surface of the container 23a.

[0213] As can be understood from the above description, the supported portion of the cartridge 5C may protrude in at least one of the directions D1 and D2 from the tip side (wiping member 13 side) of the cartridge 5C. Furthermore, if a magnet or the like is used, the protrusion may not be necessary.

[0214] The portion of the cartridge 5C that is supported by the positioning portion of the standby section 23 (the upper end 23b of the container 23a and / or the beam described above) is not limited to being provided in the gripped portion 15d. For example, the supported portion may be provided in the main portion 15a. However, the supported portion is located, for example, on the rear end side of the center of gravity of the cartridge 5C. This makes it easier to support the cartridge 5C in the standby section 23 with the rear end side of the cartridge 5C (in other words, the portion held by the holding portion 27) facing upward.

[0215] The container 23a may be configured to store the cleaning liquid dripping from the used cartridge 5, or may be configured to discharge the cleaning liquid from a discharge port that opens on the bottom surface. In the former case, the bottom surface of the container 23a may be, for example, horizontal, or may be inclined so as to be lower toward the used cartridge 5. In the latter case, the bottom surface of the container 23a may be, for example, horizontal, or may be inclined so as to be lower toward the discharge port.

[0216] As described above, the waiting section 23 may have a container 23a that accommodates at least a portion of the lower side of a first number (two or more) of cartridges 5, and a positioning section (in the illustrated example, the upper end 23b of the container 23a) that positions the first number of cartridges 5 at a position above and away from the bottom surface of the container 23a.

[0217] In this case, as already mentioned, for example, it reduces the probability that cleaning liquid dripping from a used cartridge 5 will adhere to an unused cartridge 5. It also reduces the probability that dirt contained in the dripping cleaning liquid will contaminate an unused cartridge 5. As can be understood from the above explanation, when the standby unit has a container and a positioning unit, the positioning unit may be part of the container.

[0218] (Second modified example of the standby section) FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a standby section 23B according to a modified example.

[0219] As shown in this figure, the standby section 23B has a plurality of partitions 23c that divide the interior of the container 23a. The partitions 23c define a plurality of spaces in which a plurality of cartridges 5 are individually accommodated.

[0220] This reduces the likelihood that adjacent cartridges 5 will come into contact with each other in the standby section 23. As a result, it reduces the likelihood that a used cartridge 5 will come into contact with an unused cartridge 5, causing dirt from the used cartridge 5 to adhere to the unused cartridge 5.

[0221] The partition portion 23c may have any suitable configuration, for example, as follows.

[0222] The partition 23c may be connected to the bottom surface of the container 23a. In this case, for example, the likelihood that the cleaning liquid dripping from a used cartridge 5 will flow down the bottom surface of the container 23a and reach an unused cartridge 5 is reduced.

[0223] However, partition 23c does not have to be connected to the bottom surface of container 23a. In this case, for example, the modified example for separating cartridge 5 from the bottom surface of container 23a, as described with reference to Fig. 7, may be combined with partition 23c. In this case, the upper end of partition 23c may be used as a positioning part for separating cartridge 5 from the bottom surface of container 23a.

[0224] Furthermore, the upper end of the partition 23c may be at the same height as, lower than, or higher than the upper end of the container 23a in the D3 direction. However, the upper end of the partition 23c is positioned higher than at least the lower end (tip) of the cartridge 5. In other words, at least a portion of the range of the partition 23c in the D3 direction overlaps with at least a portion of the range of the cartridge 5 in the D3 direction (they at least partially overlap when viewed in the D1 direction).

[0225] The distance between two adjacent partitions 23c may be large enough to fit the cartridge 5 between the two partitions 23c, or may be larger than that. The partitions 23c may or may not be planar.

[0226] (Third modified example of the standby section) FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a standby section 23C according to a modified example.

[0227] 9 shows a bed 43 according to the first embodiment. For convenience, the reference numerals according to the first embodiment may be used. However, the modified example may be applied to other embodiments.

[0228] In this modification, the standby section 23C is detachable. Therefore, for example, the standby section 23C as a whole can be exchanged for a plurality of unused cartridges 5 and a plurality of used cartridges 5. In other words, the plurality of cartridges 5 stored in the device 1 can be exchanged at once. As a result, user convenience is improved.

[0229] The standby section 23C can be configured in various ways to be detachable, for example as follows.

[0230] 9, a slider 53 is provided that is movable in the direction D1 relative to the bed 43. The slider 53 has a recess 53a into which the container-shaped standby unit 23C generally fits. The standby unit 23C is attached to and detached from the slider 53 by being inserted into and removed from the recess 53a.

[0231] 9, a claw 55 is provided that is rotatable around an axis parallel to the direction D3 (see arrow a43) relative to the slider 53. After the standby section 23C is accommodated in the recess 53a, the claw 55 is rotated to be positioned above the standby section 23C, thereby restricting the upward movement of the standby section 23C relative to the slider 53.

[0232] Although not specifically shown, a claw to which a restoring force is imparted by a spring may engage with the standby portion 23C to attach the standby portion 23C to the slider 53. In this case, for example, a one-touch attachment / detachment method may be used. For example, during the process of inserting the standby portion 23C into the recess 53a, the claw may be pressed by a predetermined portion of the standby portion 23C and temporarily retreat against the restoring force of the spring, and then, after passing the predetermined portion, the claw may protrude due to the restoring force of the spring and engage with the predetermined portion. To release the engagement, an operating member such as a slide button connected to the claw may be operated.

[0233] As can be understood from the above examples, various configurations that allow easy attachment and detachment of the standby section 23C may be adopted as the configuration that realizes attachment and detachment. Here, "easy attachment and detachment" may mean, for example, that the user can attach and detach it by hand without using tools, etc. For example, a mode in which the standby section 23C is fixed to the slider 53 by fastening a screw-like member that can be turned by hand without using tools may be included in the attachment and detachment herein.

[0234] In the third embodiment, for example, an opening exposing the standby section 23 may be formed in the frame 349. The standby section 23 may have a flange formed on the edge or edge of a container in the standby section 23 overlapping the periphery of the opening of the frame 349. The frame 349 may have a recess and / or a claw or the like for positioning the edge or flange of the container in the D1-D2 direction. In this way, detachment may be achieved as in FIG. 9. Similarly in the second embodiment, a frame that detachably supports the standby section 23 may be provided.

[0235] The slider 53 or the frame 349 to which the standby unit 23 is attached or detached may be generically conceptualized as a detachable unit to which the standby unit 23 is attached or detached. As can be understood from the above description, the detachable unit may be a component that moves in the absolute coordinate system, or may be a component that does not move.

[0236] (Example of process related to automatic cartridge replacement) As described above, the replacement of the cartridges 5 may be performed automatically by the control device 31. The procedure may be any appropriate one. An example is shown below.

[0237] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for processing related to replacement of the cartridge 5 executed by the control device 31.

[0238] The illustrated process is an example of the process of the control device 31 in a mode in which the first cartridge 5A is basically used, and a third cartridge (not shown) is used in specific cases such as when dirt accumulates on the nozzle surface 3a. Although the third cartridge is not shown or described in detail, it has, for example, a higher dirt removal effect than the first cartridge 5A. For example, a cartridge having a wiping member that rotates by power can be used as the third cartridge. The illustrated process may be started, for example, when the operation of the device 1 is started. Note that FIG. 10 omits the process step of initially holding the first cartridge 5A by the holding portion 27; in step ST1, the first cartridge 5A is already held by the holding portion 27.

[0239] In step ST1, the control device 31 determines whether the time for wiping has arrived. As already mentioned, this time may be set as appropriate. For example, this time may be when the device 1 starts operating, when printing starts after operation, or when printing has been performed for a predetermined length of time. Whether wiping is necessary may be determined based on a signal from a sensor that detects the state of the nozzle surface 3a, or a predetermined operation by the user. If the determination is affirmative (i.e., wiping is necessary), the control device 31 proceeds to step ST2, and if the determination is negative, the control device 31 repeats step ST1 at a predetermined interval.

[0240] In step ST2, the control device 31 determines whether a predetermined designation condition is satisfied. This designation condition is a condition for determining whether wiping with the third cartridge is necessary, and may be various conditions. For example, the designation condition may be that a predetermined time has elapsed since the device 1 started ejecting liquid, that the number of wiping operations performed with the first cartridge 5A has reached a predetermined number of times greater than or equal to one, and / or that the state of the nozzle surface 3a detected by the sensor has reached a predetermined state. Note that, unlike the description here, the designation condition may also be that the user has performed an operation to designate the third cartridge between the previous wiping operation using the third cartridge and the current wiping operation. If the control device 31 determines that wiping with the third cartridge is necessary (if the determination is affirmative), the control device 31 proceeds to step ST6, and if the determination is negative, the control device 31 proceeds to step ST3.

[0241] In step ST3, the control device 31 performs a process for performing wiping using the cartridge 5 held by the holding portion 27 (that is, the first cartridge 5A).

[0242] In step ST4, the control device 31 determines whether it is time to replace the first cartridge 5A used in step ST3. As described above, this time may be set as appropriate. For example, the replacement time may be determined when a predetermined time has elapsed since the device 1 began discharging liquid, when the number of wiping operations performed using the first cartridge 5A held in the holding portion 27 reaches a predetermined number of times greater than or equal to one, and / or when the state of the cartridge 5 detected by the sensor reaches a predetermined state. Note that, unlike the description here, it may also be determined that it is time to replace the first cartridge 5A when a user performs an operation to replace the first cartridge 5A between the last wiping operation using the currently held first cartridge 5A. If the determination is affirmative, the control device 31 proceeds to step ST5. If the determination is negative, the control device 31 skips step ST5 and proceeds to step ST9.

[0243] In step ST5, the control device 31 performs processing to replace the first cartridge 5A held in the holding section 27 with an unused first cartridge 5A waiting in the waiting section 23. Note that the order of step ST3 and steps ST4 and ST5 may be reversed.

[0244] On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step ST2 and the process proceeds to step ST6, the control device 31 performs a process for replacing the first cartridge 5A held in the holding portion 27 with the third cartridge.

[0245] In step ST7, the control device 31 performs a process for wiping using the third cartridge held in the holding portion 27 in step ST6. This process may be the same as step ST3, or may be a process with specific content different from that of step ST3, taking into consideration that the type of cartridge 5 is different.

[0246] In step ST8, the control device 31 performs processing to replace the third cartridge held in the holding section 27 with the first cartridge 5A. The first cartridge 5A held at this time may be the one held before step ST6 (a used one), or may be an unused one.

[0247] In step ST9, it is determined whether or not a termination condition for the wiping process has been met. The termination condition may be, for example, that a predetermined operation to stop the operation of the device 1 has been performed. If the determination is negative, the control device 31 returns to step ST1. If the determination is positive, the control device 31 terminates the illustrated process. Note that before terminating the illustrated process, the control device 31 may perform a process to return the first cartridge 5A held in the holding section 27 to the standby section 23.

[0248] As described above, the device 1 may select a cartridge 5 to be picked up by the holder 27 from the first number (two or more cartridges 5 held in the standby unit 23) of cartridges 5 based on information correlated with the amount of liquid adhering to the nozzle surface 3a (steps ST2 and ST6). The information correlated with the amount of liquid adhering may be, for example, the time from the start of ejection, the number of wipings, and / or information from the sensor, as described in step ST2.

[0249] In this way, the cartridge 5 is automatically selected depending on the degree of dirt on the nozzle surface 3a, thereby reducing the burden on the user. It also reduces the likelihood of ejection failure due to insufficient wiping and / or deterioration of the nozzle surface 3a (for example, deterioration of the water-repellent film) due to excessive wiping.

[0250] (Modification of wiping operation) FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the wiping operation.

[0251] In this figure, as indicated by arrow a45, the cartridge 5 (more specifically, the first cartridge 5A) is wiping while moving toward the +D1 side relative to the head 3. At this time, the angle of the cartridge 5 with respect to the nozzle surface 3a may be changed so that the portion of the wiping member 13A that comes into contact with the nozzle surface 3a transitions.

[0252] In this case, the area of ​​the surface of the wiping member 13A that comes into contact with the nozzle surface 3a changes depending on the angle of the cartridge 5. That is, as can be seen from the position of the stain DT attached to the wiping member 13A, which is shown in schematic form, the clean area of ​​the wiping member 13A can be used without waste. This allows the nozzle surface 3a to be cleaned effectively. From another perspective, the frequency with which the cartridge 5 needs to be replaced can be reduced.

[0253] Various configurations are possible for realizing the above-described operations. For example, in the first embodiment, the above-described operations can be realized by synchronizing the rotation of arm main body 29 about rotation axis R1 with the movement of holder 27 in the direction indicated by arrow a4. Furthermore, for example, in any of the first to third embodiments, the above-described operations can be realized by adding a joint that rotates holder 27 relative to arm main body 29 about a rotation axis parallel to direction D2. The added joint may be provided on the arm main body 29 side or on the holder 27 side with respect to the mechanism that realizes the movement in the direction indicated by arrow a4.

[0254] (Example of a printer) As described above, the device 1 may be a printer. The following describes an example of the configuration of the device body 7 (the portion of the device 1 other than the wiper 9) when the device 1 is a printer.

[0255] Fig. 12 is a schematic side view of the device main body 7. Fig. 13 is a schematic plan view of the device main body 7.

[0256] In these figures, a Cartesian coordinate system D1-D2-D3 defined for the head 3 is provided. As will be understood from the explanation below, the device body 7 has multiple heads 3. The multiple heads 3 are oriented slightly differently from one another. Therefore, the Cartesian coordinate system D1-D2-D3 is provided without regard to strictness.

[0257] The device main body 7 is configured as a line printer that prints on the printing paper P by ejecting ink droplets using the head 3, whose movement is restricted, while transporting the printing paper P in direction D2 (the short side direction of the head 3). More specifically, the device main body 7 moves the printing paper P relative to the head 3 by transporting the printing paper P from paper feed roller 80A to collection roller 80B. The paper feed roller 80A and collection roller 80B, as well as various rollers described below, make up a transport unit 85 that moves the printing paper P and the head 3 relative to each other. The control device 31 controls the head 3 based on print data, which is data for images and / or characters, to eject liquid toward the printing paper P, causing droplets to land on the printing paper P, thereby performing recording, such as printing, on the printing paper P.

[0258] The device main body 7 has four flat head mounting frames 70 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as frames) that are approximately parallel to the printing paper P. Each frame 70 has five holes (not shown), and five heads 3 are mounted in each hole. The five heads 3 mounted on one frame 70 make up one head group 72. The device main body 7 has four head groups 72, and a total of 20 heads 3 are mounted thereon.

[0259] The head 3 mounted on the frame 70 is configured so that the nozzle surface 3a (the surface on the -D3 side) faces the printing paper P. The distance between the head 3 and the printing paper P is, for example, about 0.5 to 20 mm.

[0260] The 20 heads 3 may be connected directly to the control device 31, or may be connected to the control device 31 via a distribution unit that distributes the print data. For example, the control device 31 may send the print data to one distribution unit, and the one distribution unit may distribute the print data to the 20 heads 3. Alternatively, for example, the control device 31 may distribute the print data to four distribution units corresponding to the four head groups 72, and each distribution unit may distribute the print data to five heads 3 in the corresponding head group 72.

[0261] In one head group 72, three heads 3 are lined up in a direction intersecting the transport direction of the print paper P (for example, a direction approximately perpendicular), and the other two heads 3 are lined up at positions offset along the transport direction, one between each of the three heads 3. In other words, in one head group 72, the heads 3 are arranged in a staggered pattern. The heads 3 are arranged so that the printable range of each head 3 is connected in the width direction of the print paper P, that is, in the direction intersecting the transport direction of the print paper P, or so that the edges overlap, making it possible to print without gaps in the width direction of the print paper P.

[0262] The four head groups 72 are arranged along the transport direction of the printing paper P. Each head 3 is supplied with liquid (e.g., ink) from a liquid supply tank (not shown). The heads 3 belonging to one head group 72 are supplied with ink of the same color, and the four head groups 72 can print with four colors of ink. The colors of ink ejected from each head group 72 are, for example, magenta (M), yellow (Y), cyan (C), and black (K). A color image can be printed by impacting such ink onto the printing paper P.

[0263] The number of heads 3 mounted on the device main body 7 may be one, as long as printing is performed in a single color within the range printable by one head 3. The number of heads 3 included in a head group 72 and / or the number of head groups 72 can be changed as appropriate depending on the printing target and / or printing conditions. For example, the number of head groups 72 may be increased to print in more colors. Furthermore, by arranging multiple head groups 72 that print in the same color and printing alternately in the transport direction, the transport speed can be increased even when heads 3 with the same performance are used. This allows for a larger printing area per unit time. Furthermore, multiple head groups 72 that print in the same color may be prepared and arranged staggered in a direction intersecting the transport direction to increase the resolution in the width direction of the printing paper P.

[0264] Furthermore, in addition to printing colored inks, a liquid such as a coating agent may be printed uniformly or in a pattern using the head 3 to treat the surface of the printing paper P. For example, when a recording medium that is difficult for the liquid to penetrate is used, a coating agent that forms a liquid-receiving layer to facilitate the adhesion of the liquid can be used. Alternatively, when a recording medium that is easy for the liquid to penetrate is used, a coating agent that forms a liquid-penetration-suppressing layer to prevent excessive bleeding of the liquid or excessive mixing with other liquids that land adjacently can be used. In addition to printing the coating agent using the head 3, the coating agent may also be applied uniformly using an applicator 76 controlled by the control device 31.

[0265] The device main body 7 prints on printing paper P, which is a recording medium. The printing paper P is wound around paper feed roller 80A, and the printing paper P sent out from paper feed roller 80A passes below head 3 mounted on frame 70, then passes between two transport rollers 82C, and is finally collected by collection roller 80B. When printing, the printing paper P is transported at a constant speed by rotating transport roller 82C, and is printed on by head 3.

[0266] Next, details of the device main body 7 will be described in the order in which the printing paper P is transported. The printing paper P sent out from the paper feed roller 80A passes between two guide rollers 82A, and then passes under the coater 76. The coater 76 applies the above-mentioned coating agent to the printing paper P.

[0267] The printing paper P then enters the head chamber 74, which houses the frame 70 on which the head 3 is mounted. The head chamber 74 is connected to the outside in some areas, such as the area where the printing paper P enters and exits, but is generally a space that is isolated from the outside. Control factors such as temperature, humidity, and air pressure in the head chamber 74 are controlled as needed by the control device 31 or the like. The head chamber 74 is less susceptible to external disturbances than the outside where the device main body 7 is installed, so the range of variation in the above-mentioned control factors can be narrower than outside.

[0268] Five guide rollers 82B are arranged in the head chamber 74, and the printing paper P is transported over the guide rollers 82B. The five guide rollers 82B are arranged so that, when viewed from the side, their centers are convex, facing the direction in which the frame 70 is arranged. As a result, the printing paper P transported over the five guide rollers 82B has an arc shape when viewed from the side, and by applying tension to the printing paper P, the printing paper P between the guide rollers 82B is stretched so that it is flat. One frame 70 is arranged between two guide rollers 82B. The angle at which the frame 70 is installed is changed slightly so that it is parallel to the printing paper P transported underneath.

[0269] The printing paper P that leaves the head chamber 74 passes between two transport rollers 82C, through the dryer 78, between two guide rollers 82D, and is collected by the collection roller 80B. The transport speed of the printing paper P is set to, for example, 100 m / min. Each roller may be controlled by the control device 31, or may be operated manually by a person.

[0270] Drying in the dryer 78 prevents overlapping sheets of printing paper P from sticking together when wound on the collection roller 80B, and prevents undried liquid from rubbing against each other. High-speed printing requires fast drying. To speed up drying, the dryer 78 may use multiple drying methods sequentially or in combination. Examples of drying methods used in such cases include blowing hot air, irradiating with infrared rays, and contact with a heated roller. When irradiating with infrared rays, infrared rays within a specific frequency range may be used to speed up drying while minimizing damage to the printing paper P. When contacting a heated roller, the printing paper P may be conveyed along the cylindrical surface of the roller to extend the time for heat transfer. The range of conveyance along the cylindrical surface of the roller is preferably at least one-quarter of the circumference of the roller, and preferably at least one-half of the circumference of the roller. When printing with UV-curable ink, a UV irradiation light source may be installed instead of or in addition to the dryer 78. A UV irradiation source may be positioned between each frame 70 .

[0271] The recording medium may be a roll of cloth in addition to printing paper P. Furthermore, instead of directly transporting printing paper P, the device main body 7 may transport a conveyor belt and place the recording medium on the conveyor belt for transport. In this way, sheets of paper, cut pieces of cloth, wood, tiles, etc. can be used as recording media. Furthermore, a liquid containing conductive particles may be ejected from the head 3 to print wiring patterns for electronic devices, etc. Furthermore, a chemical agent may be produced by ejecting a predetermined amount of liquid chemical agent or a liquid containing a chemical agent from the head 3 toward a reaction vessel or the like, and causing a reaction.

[0272] Furthermore, position sensors, speed sensors, and / or temperature sensors may be attached to the device body 7, and the control device 31 may control each part of the device body 7 according to the state of each part determined from information from each sensor. For example, if the temperature of the head 3, the temperature of the liquid in the liquid supply tank that supplies the liquid to the head 3, and / or the pressure that the liquid in the liquid supply tank applies to the head 3 affect the ejection characteristics of the ejected liquid (e.g., ejection amount and / or ejection speed), the drive signal for ejecting the liquid may be changed according to this information.

[0273] (Example of a configuration for wiping multiple heads) 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wiper 409 used in the device main body 7. Here, the nozzle surface 3a of the head 3 is also shown by a dotted line.

[0274] The wiper 409 may have the configuration shown in the first embodiment for each head 3. That is, the wiper 409 may have a plurality of arms 21, the same number as the plurality of heads 3. This allows wiping and wiping replacement to be performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment, even when a plurality of heads 3 are provided. Although the first embodiment is taken as an example, the same applies to the second and third embodiments.

[0275] Note that some of the multiple members corresponding to the multiple heads 3 may be connected to each other or configured as a single member. For example, with respect to the first embodiment, the multiple arm bodies 29 may be rotatably supported by a single base (not shown), the multiple standby sections 23 may be supported by a single bed 43, and the multiple standby sections 23 may be connected to each other (or driven by a single drive source 37). With respect to the second and third embodiments, the multiple arm bodies 29 may be grouped together as a single part, the bases 27a of the multiple holding sections 27 may be grouped together as a single part (or driven by a single drive source 35), and the multiple pairs of fingers 27b may be driven by a single drive source 27c. With respect to the second embodiment, the multiple arms 21 may be supported by a single bed 247, and the multiple arm bodies 29 may be grouped together as a single part (or driven by a single drive source 233). Regarding the third embodiment, the multiple frames 349 may be grouped together as one unit (and may be driven by one driving source 333).

[0276] Various configurations for wiping the multiple heads 3 are possible other than those illustrated. For example, the wipers 9 shown in the first embodiment may be provided in a number smaller than the number of the multiple heads 3. The multiple heads 3 may be sequentially wiped by moving the heads 3 and the wipers 9 relative to each other. For example, one wiper 9 may be sequentially moved in the D1 direction and the D2 direction to wipe five heads 3 with one wiper 9. Alternatively, two wipers 9 may be provided at different positions in the D2 direction, with one wiper 9 covering three heads 3 on the -D2 side and the other covering two heads 3 on the +D2 side. In these examples, the operation of sequentially wiping the multiple heads 3 lined up in the D1 direction may be achieved by moving the arm 21 in the D1 direction relative to the bed 43. Alternatively, for example, the cartridge 5 may be large enough to accommodate two or more heads 3 in the D2 direction, thereby wiping the multiple heads 3. While the first embodiment has been taken as an example, the same applies to the second and third embodiments.

[0277] The technology according to the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and may be implemented in various forms.

[0278] For example, the attachment portion does not have to be located on the path of the cartridge moving from the standby portion to the position where it contacts the nozzle face. For example, the attachment portion may supply cleaning liquid to the nozzle face. The cartridges may be arranged in two or more rows in the standby portion. [Explanation of symbols]

[0279] 1...liquid ejection device, 3...liquid ejection head, 3a...nozzle surface, 23...standby section, 27...holding section, 5...wiping cartridge, 45...operating section.

Claims

1. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has The wiping cartridge has an attachment portion for attaching cleaning liquid to the wiping cartridge, the attachment portion being located midway along a path of relative movement of the wiping cartridge from the standby portion to a position where the wiping cartridge contacts the nozzle surface. Liquid discharge device.

2. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has The wiping cartridge has an attachment portion for attaching cleaning liquid to the wiping cartridge between a position where the wiping cartridge supported by the standby portion is held by the holding portion and a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding portion comes into contact with the nozzle surface. Liquid discharge device.

3. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has the wiping cartridge has a gripped portion that is gripped by the holding portion and is located rearward of a portion that contacts the nozzle surface, The gripped portion has a width in a predetermined direction perpendicular to the direction from the front end side to the rear end side of the wiping cartridge that is smaller than the width in the predetermined direction of at least another part of the wiping cartridge. Liquid discharge device.

4. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; a detachable unit to which the standby unit is attached and detached; A liquid ejection device comprising:

5. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has While the wiping cartridge is moving in one direction while in contact with the nozzle surface, the angle of the wiping cartridge with respect to the nozzle surface is changed so that the portion of the wiping cartridge that contacts the nozzle surface transitions. Liquid discharge device.

6. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has the nozzle surface faces one side in a first direction, the operating section has a support section located on the one side in the first direction with respect to the liquid ejection head, the support portion is rotatable around a rotation axis perpendicular to the first direction, the holding portion is supported by the support portion so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, The standby section is positioned in one of the directions around the rotation axis relative to the support section. Liquid discharge device.

7. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has the nozzle surface faces one side in a first direction, the standby section is located in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction with respect to the liquid ejection head; the operating unit has a support unit located on the one side in the first direction with respect to the liquid ejection head and the standby unit, The support portion is movable in the second direction, The holding portion is supported by the support portion so as to be movable in the first direction. Liquid discharge device.

8. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has the nozzle surface faces one side in a first direction, the standby section is located in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction with respect to the liquid ejection head; The operating unit a moving unit that supports the liquid ejection head and the standby unit and is movable in the second direction; a support portion located on the one side in the first direction with respect to the liquid ejection head and the standby portion, The holding portion is supported by the support portion so as to be movable in the first direction. Liquid discharge device.

9. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has the standby section simultaneously supports a first number of the wiping cartridges, the first number being equal to or greater than two; the holding section picks up a number of the wiping cartridges that is less than the first number from the first number of wiping cartridges supported by the standby section; The waiting section a container that accommodates at least a portion of a lower side of the first number of wiping cartridges; a positioning portion for positioning the first number of wiping cartridges at a position spaced above the bottom surface of the container; Liquid discharge device.

10. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has the standby section simultaneously supports a first number of the wiping cartridges, the first number being equal to or greater than two; the holding section picks up a number of the wiping cartridges that is less than the first number from the first number of wiping cartridges supported by the standby section; The waiting section a container that accommodates at least a portion of a lower side of the first number of wiping cartridges; a plurality of partitions that divide the interior of the container to form a plurality of spaces in which the first number of wiping cartridges are individually accommodated; Liquid discharge device.

11. A liquid ejection head having a nozzle surface; a standby section that supports the wiping cartridge; a holder for holding the wiping cartridge; an operating unit that moves the holding unit relative to the standby unit and the liquid ejection head from a position where the wiping cartridge, which is not held by the holding unit but is supported by the standby unit, is held by the holding unit to a position where the wiping cartridge held by the holding unit comes into contact with the nozzle surface; It has the standby section simultaneously supports a first number of the wiping cartridges, the first number being equal to or greater than two; the holding section picks up a number of the wiping cartridges that is less than the first number from the first number of wiping cartridges supported by the standby section; a wiping cartridge to be picked up by the holding unit is selected from the first number of wiping cartridges based on information correlated with the amount of liquid attached to the nozzle surface; Liquid discharge device.

12. the standby section simultaneously supports a first number of the wiping cartridges, the first number being equal to or greater than two; The holding section picks up a number of wiping cartridges that is less than the first number from the first number of wiping cartridges supported by the standby section. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

13. The wiping cartridge that has wiped the nozzle surface is returned to the standby section. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

14. The wiping cartridge that has wiped the nozzle surface is returned to its original position in the standby section. The liquid ejection device according to claim 13.

15. each of the first number of wiping cartridges has a wiping member that contacts the nozzle face; The first number of wiping cartridges includes two or more types of wiping cartridges whose wiping members are made of different materials. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

16. The relative movement of the wiping cartridge from the standby portion to the position where it contacts the nozzle surface is performed within a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction of the liquid ejection head. The liquid ejection device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

Images