Flow path switching unit and liquid ejection device

Abstract

To provide a flow path switching unit capable of appropriately switching a flow path, and a liquid discharge device.SOLUTION: A flow path switching unit 24 includes: a rotation valve 32 that rotates; a housing 31 that has a contact surface 36 with which the rotation valve contacts; and a pressing member 33 that presses the rotation valve against the contact surface. The housing has: a first flow path 41 that opens in the contact surface, a second flow path 42 that opens in the contact surface; and a third flow path 43 that opens in the contact surface. The rotation valve has an elastic part 46 that contacts with the contact surface and has a recess facing the contact surface. The recess switches between a state of facing the first flow path and the second flow path and a state of facing the first flow path and the third flow path by rotation of the rotation valve.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a flow path switching unit and a liquid ejection device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a flow path switching unit that includes a rotating rotary valve and a housing that comes into contact with the rotary valve. This flow path switching unit is configured so that the flow path is switched by the rotation of the rotary valve relative to the housing. The outer circumferential surface of the rotary valve comes into contact with the housing, thereby sealing the rotary valve and the housing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-246928 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the flow path switching unit described in Patent Document 1, the rotation of the rotary valve may cause wear on the outer circumferential surface of the rotary valve. When the outer circumferential surface of the rotary valve is worn, the sealing performance between the rotary valve and the housing may be reduced. In this case, it becomes difficult to switch the flow path appropriately. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A flow path switching unit that solves the above problem comprises a rotating rotary valve, a housing having a contact surface with which the rotary valve comes into contact, and a pressing member that presses the rotary valve against the contact surface, wherein the housing has a first flow path that opens onto the contact surface, a second flow path that opens onto the contact surface, and a third flow path that opens onto the contact surface, and the rotary valve has an elastic portion that contacts the contact surface and has a recess that faces the contact surface, and the recess switches between a state facing the first flow path and the second flow path and a state facing the first flow path and the third flow path as the rotary valve rotates.

[0006] A liquid ejection device that solves the above problem comprises a head having a nozzle that ejects liquid, a supply flow path for supplying liquid from a supply source to the head, a cap that covers the nozzle by contacting the head, a suction pump, and the above-mentioned flow path switching unit, wherein the first flow path is connected to the suction pump, the second flow path is connected to the cap, and the third flow path is connected to the supply flow path. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a liquid ejection device including a flow path switching unit. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a flow path switching unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the flow path switching unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a front view of the flow path switching unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a front view of the flow path switching unit excluding the housing. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a front view of a flow path switching unit in a first switching pattern. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a front view of the flow path switching unit in the second switching pattern. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a front view of a flow path switching unit in a third switching pattern. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a front view of a flow path switching unit in a fourth switching pattern. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a front view of a flow path switching unit in a fifth switching pattern. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An embodiment of a liquid ejection device equipped with a flow path switching unit will be described below with reference to the drawings. The liquid ejection device is, for example, an inkjet printer that records images such as characters and photographs by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium such as paper or fabric.

[0009] As shown in Fig. 1, the liquid ejection device 11 includes a head 12. The head 12 is configured to eject a liquid. The head 12 has nozzles 13. The nozzles 13 eject the liquid. The head 12 records an image on the medium 99 by ejecting the liquid from the nozzles 13 onto the medium 99.

[0010] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a carriage 14. The carriage 14 carries the head 12. The carriage 14 is configured to scan across the medium 99. Therefore, the liquid ejection device 11 of this example is a serial type printer. The liquid ejection device 11 may also be a line type printer that can eject liquid simultaneously across the width of the medium 99.

[0011] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a mounting portion 15. The mounting portion 15 is configured to mount a supply source 16. The supply source 16 contains a liquid. The supply source 16 is, for example, an ink tank, an ink cartridge, or the like.

[0012] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a supply flow path 17. The supply flow path 17 is a flow path for supplying liquid from a supply source 16 to the head 12. The supply flow path 17 is connected to the mounting part 15 and the head 12. The supply source 16 is connected to the supply flow path 17 by being mounted on the mounting part 15.

[0013] The supply flow path 17 includes a supply pipe 18 and a reservoir 19 . The supply pipe 18 is connected to the mounting portion 15 and the storage portion 19. That is, the supply pipe 18 is connected to the supply source 16 and the storage portion 19. Liquid is supplied from the supply source 16 to the storage portion 19 through the supply pipe 18. The supply pipe 18 is, for example, a tube.

[0014] The reservoir 19 is configured to store liquid. The reservoir 19 is connected to the head 12. The liquid stored in the reservoir 19 is supplied to the head 12. The reservoir 19 is mounted on the carriage 14. The liquid supplied from the supply source 16 to the reservoir 19 may contain air bubbles. As a result, air bubbles may accumulate in the upper part of the reservoir 19.

[0015] The liquid ejection device 11 includes a maintenance unit 20. The maintenance unit 20 is a unit for performing maintenance on the liquid ejection device 11. The maintenance unit 20 has a cap 21. The cap 21 is configured to come into contact with the head 12. The cap 21 covers the nozzle 13 by coming into contact with the head 12. This forms a space within the cap 21 that communicates with the nozzle 13. By the cap 21 covering the nozzle 13, drying of the nozzle 13 is suppressed.

[0016] The cap 21 is configured to be displaceable between a position in contact with the head 12 and a position in which it is not in contact with the head 12. The cap 21 is configured to be movable, for example, up and down. The cap 21 comes into contact with the head 12 by moving upward while facing the head 12.

[0017] The maintenance unit 20 has a suction pump 22. The suction pump 22 is connected to the cap 21 and the supply flow path 17. The suction pump 22 sucks the inside of the cap 21 and the supply flow path 17. More specifically, the suction pump 22 is connected to the cap 21 and the storage section 19. The suction pump 22 sucks the inside of the cap 21 and the storage section 19.

[0018] The suction pump 22 sucks the inside of the cap 21 to suck the liquid from the cap 21. For example, when the suction pump 22 sucks the inside of the cap 21 while the cap 21 is in contact with the head 12 so as to cover the nozzle 13, negative pressure in the cap 21 acts on the nozzle 13, and thickened liquid, solidified liquid, etc. are discharged from the nozzle 13. In other words, the maintenance unit 20 cleans the head 12. The suction pump 22 sucks the inside of the storage section 19 to suck air bubbles that accumulate in the storage section 19. As a result, the air bubbles are discharged from the storage section 19.

[0019] The maintenance unit 20 has a storage section 23. The storage section 23 is connected to a suction pump 22. The liquid and air bubbles sucked by the suction pump 22 from the cap 21 and the supply flow path 17 are discharged into the storage section 23. The storage section 23 stores waste liquid generated during maintenance.

[0020] The maintenance unit 20 has a flow path switching unit 24. The flow path switching unit 24 is located in the maintenance unit 20 between the cap 21 and the suction pump 22. The flow path switching unit 24 switches the connection destination of the flow paths, for example. By switching the connection destination of the flow paths, the flow path switching unit 24 switches the connection destination of the suction pump 22 between the cap 21 and the supply flow path 17, for example. By switching the connection destination of the flow paths, for example, when the cap 21 comes into contact with the head 12, the flow path switching unit 24 switches between a state in which the inside of the cap 21 is open to the atmosphere and a state in which the inside of the cap 21 is not open to the atmosphere.

[0021] The maintenance unit 20 has a suction pipe 25. The suction pipe 25 is connected to the cap 21 and the flow path switching unit 24. The suction pipe 25 is a pipe for connecting the cap 21 and the suction pump 22. The suction pipe 25 is, for example, a tube.

[0022] The maintenance unit 20 has an exhaust pipe 26. The exhaust pipe 26 is connected to the supply flow path 17 and the flow path switching unit 24. More specifically, the exhaust pipe 26 is connected to the storage section 19 and the flow path switching unit 24. The exhaust pipe 26 is a pipe for connecting the supply flow path 17 and the suction pump 22. The exhaust pipe 26 is, for example, a tube.

[0023] The maintenance unit 20 has an open pipe 27. The open pipe 27 is connected to the cap 21 and the flow path switching unit 24. The open pipe 27 is a pipe for opening the inside of the cap 21 to the atmosphere. The open pipe 27 is, for example, a tube.

[0024] The flow path switching unit 24 switches the connection destination of the open pipe 27 by switching the connection destination of the flow path. By switching the connection destination of the open pipe 27 by the flow path switching unit 24, the open pipe 27 is switched between a state in which it is in communication with the atmosphere and a state in which it is not in communication with the atmosphere. When the cap 21 comes into contact with the head 12, the open pipe 27 is in communication with the atmosphere, so that the inside of the cap 21 is open to the atmosphere. When the cap 21 comes into contact with the head 12, the open pipe 27 is not in communication with the atmosphere, so that the inside of the cap 21 is not open to the atmosphere, i.e., the inside of the cap 21 is sealed.

[0025] When the suction pump 22 suctions the inside of the cap 21 while the inside of the cap 21 is sealed, the head 12 is cleaned. When the suction pump 22 suctions the inside of the cap 21 while the inside of the cap 21 is open to the atmosphere, the liquid inside the cap 21 and the liquid inside the suction tube 25 are sucked. That is, the maintenance unit 20 performs dry suction inside the cap 21. Dry suction is performed, for example, after cleaning. As a result, the liquid discharged during cleaning is discharged from the cap 21 and the suction tube 25. By performing dry suction while the cap 21 is in contact with the head 12, the risk of liquid splashing due to dry suction is reduced. Furthermore, by opening the inside of the cap 21 to the atmosphere through the release tube 27, liquid is less likely to flow back into the cap 21 compared to when dry suction is performed while the inside of the cap 21 is open to the atmosphere through the suction tube 25. Note that the maintenance unit 20 also performs dry suction when the suction pump 22 suctions the inside of the cap 21 while the cap 21 is not in contact with the head 12.

[0026] The maintenance unit 20 has a connecting pipe 28. The connecting pipe 28 is connected to the suction pump 22 and the flow path switching unit 24. The connecting pipe 28 is, for example, a tube. The flow path switching unit 24 switches the connection destination of the connecting pipe 28 by switching the connection destination of the flow path. Specifically, the flow path switching unit 24 switches the connection destination of the connecting pipe 28 between the suction pipe 25 and the exhaust pipe 26. When the connecting pipe 28 is connected to the suction pipe 25, the suction pump 22 and the cap 21 communicate with each other. When the connecting pipe 28 is connected to the exhaust pipe 26, the suction pump 22 and the supply flow path 17 communicate with each other. When the flow path switching unit 24 switches the connection destination of the connecting pipe 28, the suction target of the suction pump 22 is switched.

[0027] The maintenance unit 20 has a discharge pipe 29. The discharge pipe 29 is connected to the suction pump 22 and the storage unit 23. The discharge pipe 29 is, for example, a tube. The maintenance unit 20 has a wiper 30. The wiper 30 is configured to wipe the head 12. More specifically, the wiper 30 wipes the surface of the head 12 where the nozzles 13 open.

[0028] The wiper 30 is configured to be displaceable between a position where it contacts the head 12 and a position where it does not contact the head 12. The wiper 30 is configured to be movable, for example, up and down. By moving upward, the wiper 30 comes into contact with the head 12 facing the wiper 30. For example, the wiper 30 wipes the head 12 by the head 12 moving relative to the wiper 30 while in contact with the head 12. This removes liquid, foreign matter, and the like adhering to the head 12. That is, the maintenance unit 20 wipes the head 12. Wiping is performed, for example, after cleaning or dry suction. This is because liquid is likely to adhere to the head 12 when cleaning or dry suction is performed. In this way, the maintenance unit 20 performs maintenance on the liquid ejection device 11 by performing cleaning, dry suction, wiping, and the like.

[0029] Next, the flow path switching unit 24 will be described. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the flow path switching unit 24 includes a housing 31. The flow path switching unit 24 includes a rotary valve 32. The flow path switching unit 24 includes a pressing member 33. The flow path switching unit 24 includes a drive gear 34. The rotary valve 32, the pressing member 33, and the drive gear 34 rotate relative to the housing 31. The rotary valve 32, the pressing member 33, and the drive gear 34 rotate around a rotation axis A1. The rotation axis A1 is an imaginary axis. The drive gear 34, the pressing member 33, the rotary valve 32, and the housing 31 are arranged in this order in the axial direction D1. The axial direction D1 is the direction in which the rotation axis A1 extends.

[0030] The housing 31 has a connection surface 35 and a contact surface 36. The connection surface 35 and the contact surface 36 face opposite each other on the housing 31. More specifically, the connection surface 35 and the contact surface 36 face opposite each other in the axial direction D1. The contact surface 36 faces the rotary valve 32. The contact surface 36 comes into contact with the rotary valve 32.

[0031] As shown in Fig. 4, the housing 31 has a plurality of flow path pipes. The housing 31 has, for example, a first flow path pipe 37, a second flow path pipe 38, a third flow path pipe 39, and a fourth flow path pipe 40. The first flow path pipe 37, the second flow path pipe 38, the third flow path pipe 39, and the fourth flow path pipe 40 extend from the connection surface 35. The first flow path pipe 37 is connected to the connection pipe 28. The second flow path pipe 38 is connected to the suction pipe 25. The third flow path pipe 39 is connected to the exhaust pipe 26. The fourth flow path pipe 40 is connected to the release pipe 27.

[0032] The housing 31 has multiple flow paths. The housing 31 has, for example, a first flow path 41, a second flow path 42, a third flow path 43, and a fourth flow path 44. The first flow path 41 opens to the first flow path pipe 37. The second flow path 42 opens to the second flow path pipe 38. The third flow path 43 opens to the third flow path pipe 39. The fourth flow path 44 opens to the fourth flow path pipe 40. The first flow path 41, the second flow path 42, the third flow path 43, and the fourth flow path 44 open to the contact surface 36. The first flow path 41, the second flow path 42, the third flow path 43, and the fourth flow path 44 penetrate the housing 31. The first flow path 41 is connected to the suction pump 22. The second flow path 42 is connected to the cap 21. The third flow path 43 is connected to the supply flow path 17, specifically, to the reservoir 19. The fourth flow path 44 is connected to the cap 21 .

[0033] The first flow path 41 is located, for example, at a position closest to the rotation axis A1 when viewed in the axial direction D1 among the first flow path 41, the second flow path 42, the third flow path 43, and the fourth flow path 44. The second flow path 42 and the third flow path 43 are located, for example, at positions that are point-symmetric with each other with respect to the rotation axis A1 when viewed in the axial direction D1. The fourth flow path 44 is located, for example, at a position farthest from the rotation axis A1 when viewed in the axial direction D1 among the first flow path 41, the second flow path 42, the third flow path 43, and the fourth flow path 44.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 5, the rotary valve 32 overlaps with the housing 31 when viewed from the axial direction D1. The rotary valve 32 rotates while being in contact with the housing 31. The rotation of the rotary valve 32 switches the connection destination of the flow paths. More specifically, the rotation of the rotary valve 32 switches the connection destination of the first flow path 41 between the second flow path 42 and the third flow path 43. The rotation of the rotary valve 32 switches the connection destination of the fourth flow path 44.

[0035] The rotary valve 32 has, for example, an elastic portion 46 and a base material 47. The rotary valve 32 may have only the elastic portion 46. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the elastic portion 46 is, for example, disk-shaped. The elastic portion 46 has elasticity. The elastic portion 46 is made of, for example, rubber, elastomer, or the like. The elastic portion 46 contacts the contact surface 36. The elastic portion 46 has an opposing surface 48 and an attachment surface 49. The opposing surface 48 and the attachment surface 49 face opposite each other on the elastic portion 46. More specifically, the opposing surface 48 and the attachment surface 49 face opposite each other in the axial direction D1. The opposing surface 48 faces the contact surface 36. The attachment surface 49 faces the base material 47. The attachment surface 49 contacts the base material 47. The base material 47 is attached to the attachment surface 49.

[0036] 7, the elastic portion 46 has one or more lips 50. The lips 50 protrude from the opposing surface 48. The lips 50 extend toward the contact surface 36. The lips 50 contact the contact surface 36. The contact of the lips 50 with the contact surface 36 forms a seal between the rotary valve 32 and the housing 31.

[0037] The lip 50 includes a first lip 51. The first lip 51 extends in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis A1. The lip 50 includes a second lip 52. The second lip 52 extends in an annular shape centered on the rotation axis A1. The lip 50 includes a third lip 53. The third lip 53 extends in an annular shape centered on the rotation axis A1. The first lip 51, the second lip 52, and the third lip 53 are arranged concentrically around the rotation axis A1. The first lip 51, the second lip 52, and the third lip 53 are arranged in this order from the inside to the outside around the rotation axis A1.

[0038] The lip 50 includes a plurality of first connecting lips 54. The lip 50 includes, for example, two first connecting lips 54. The two first connecting lips 54 connect the first lip 51 and the second lip 52. The lip 50 includes a plurality of second connecting lips 55. The lip 50 includes, for example, two second connecting lips 55. The two second connecting lips 55 connect the second lip 52 and the third lip 53.

[0039] The first lip 51 and the two first connecting lips 54 divide the area surrounded by the second lip 52 into two. The two second connecting lips 55 divide the area between the second lip 52 and the third lip 53 into two.

[0040] The elastic portion 46 has one or more recesses 56. The recesses 56 face the contact surface 36. The recesses 56 are formed in the facing surface 48. More specifically, the recesses 56 are formed in the elastic portion 46 by the lip 50 protruding from the facing surface 48. That is, the recesses 56 are defined by the lip 50. The recesses 56 include a first recess 57 and a second recess 58. The recesses 56 include an open recess 59.

[0041] The first recess 57 is located at a position where the rotation axis A1 passes. The first recess 57 is defined by the first lip 51, the second lip 52, and the two first connecting lips 54. The shape of the first recess 57 is, for example, a fan shape when viewed from the axial direction D1.

[0042] The second recess 58 is defined by the first lip 51, the second lip 52, and the two first connecting lips 54. The shape of the second recess 58 is, for example, an arc shape when viewed in the axial direction D1.

[0043] The first recess 57 and the second recess 58 are regions that are divided into two by the first lip 51 and the plurality of first connecting lips 54 within the region surrounded by the second lip 52, respectively.

[0044] The open recess 59 is defined by the second lip 52, the third lip 53, and the two second connecting lips 55. The shape of the open recess 59 is, for example, arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction D1.

[0045] 5, the first recess 57 faces the first flow path 41. When viewed from the axial direction D1, the first recess 57 is located at a position overlapping the first flow path 41. The first recess 57 always faces the first flow path 41 regardless of the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32. The first recess 57 facing the first flow path 41 allows the suction pipe 25 to communicate with the first recess 57. Therefore, the suction pump 22 sucks the first recess 57.

[0046] The first recess 57 is positioned so as to be able to face the second flow path 42. When viewed from the axial direction D1, the first recess 57 is positioned so as to overlap with the second flow path 42. Depending on the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32, the first recess 57 faces the second flow path 42 or not. When the first recess 57 faces the second flow path 42, the suction pipe 25 communicates with the first recess 57. Therefore, the suction pump 22 sucks the inside of the cap 21 through the first recess 57.

[0047] The first recess 57 is positioned so as to be able to face the third flow path 43. When viewed from the axial direction D1, the first recess 57 is positioned so as to overlap with the third flow path 43. Depending on the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32, the first recess 57 faces the third flow path 43 or not. When the first recess 57 faces the third flow path 43, the exhaust pipe 26 communicates with the first recess 57. Therefore, the suction pump 22 draws air into the supply flow path 17 through the first recess 57.

[0048] In the flow path switching unit 24, the shape of the first recess 57, the position of the second flow path 42, and the position of the third flow path 43 are taken into consideration so that the first recess 57 does not face both the second flow path 42 and the third flow path 43 at the same time. That is, when the first recess 57 faces the second flow path 42, it does not face the third flow path 43. When the first recess 57 faces the third flow path 43, it does not face the second flow path 42. As the rotary valve 32 rotates, the flow path facing the first recess 57 is switched between the second flow path 42 and the third flow path 43. As the rotary valve 32 rotates, the first recess 57 switches between a state facing the first flow path 41 and the second flow path 42 and a state facing the first flow path 41 and the third flow path 43.

[0049] The second recess 58 is positioned so as to be able to face the second flow path 42. When viewed from the axial direction D1, the second recess 58 is positioned so as to overlap with the second flow path 42. Depending on the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32, the second recess 58 faces the second flow path 42 or not. When the second recess 58 faces the second flow path 42, suction by the suction pump 22 does not reach the suction pipe 25. In other words, the suction pipe 25 is closed. The second recess 58 faces the second flow path 42, for example, when the first flow path 41 and the third flow path 43 face the first recess 57.

[0050] The second recess 58 is positioned so as to be able to face the third flow path 43. The second recess 58 is positioned so as to overlap with the third flow path 43 when viewed from the axial direction D1. Depending on the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32, the second recess 58 faces the third flow path 43 or not. When the second recess 58 faces the third flow path 43, suction by the suction pump 22 does not reach the exhaust pipe 26. The second recess 58 faces the third flow path 43 when, for example, the first flow path 41 and the second flow path 42 face the first recess 57.

[0051] The open recess 59 is positioned so as to be able to face the fourth flow passage 44. When viewed from the axial direction D1, the open recess 59 is positioned so as to be able to overlap with the fourth flow passage 44. Depending on the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32, the open recess 59 faces the fourth flow passage 44 or not.

[0052] A through hole 60 opens into the open recess 59. The through hole 60 penetrates the elastic portion 46. Therefore, the open recess 59 is in communication with the atmosphere. When the open recess 59 faces the fourth flow path 44, the open pipe 27 communicates with the open recess 59. This allows the open pipe 27 to communicate with the atmosphere. Therefore, the inside of the cap 21 is open to the atmosphere through the open pipe 27. When the open recess 59 does not face the fourth flow path 44, the open pipe 27 is closed.

[0053] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8 , the elastic portion 46 has one or more insertion grooves 61. The insertion grooves 61 are grooves recessed from the mounting surface 49. The insertion grooves 61 extend to correspond to the lip 50. Therefore, the insertion grooves 61 extend to avoid the locations where the recesses 56 are located. The insertion grooves 61 overlap with the lip 50 in the axial direction D1. The insertion grooves 61 are recessed toward the inside of the lip 50. The base material 47 is inserted into the insertion grooves 61.

[0054] The insertion groove 61 includes a first insertion groove 62, which corresponds to the first lip 51. The first insertion groove 62 extends in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis A1. The insertion groove 61 includes a second insertion groove 63. The second insertion groove 63 corresponds to the second lip 52. The second insertion groove 63 extends in an annular shape centered on the rotation axis A1. The insertion groove 61 includes a third insertion groove 64. The third insertion groove 64 corresponds to the third lip 53. The third insertion groove 64 extends in an annular shape centered on the rotation axis A1. The insertion groove 61 includes a plurality of first connecting insertion grooves 65. The insertion groove 61 includes, for example, two first connecting insertion grooves 65. The first connecting insertion groove 65 corresponds to the first connecting lip 54. The first connecting insertion groove 65 connects the first insertion groove 62 and the second insertion groove 63. The insertion groove 61 includes a plurality of second connecting insertion grooves 66. The insertion groove 61 includes, for example, two second connecting insertion grooves 66. The second connecting insertion grooves 66 correspond to the second connecting lip 55. The second connecting insertion grooves 66 connect the second insertion groove 63 and the third insertion groove 64.

[0055] The elastic portion 46 has a plurality of rib grooves 67. The rib grooves 67 are grooves recessed from the mounting surface 49. The base material 47 is inserted into the rib grooves 67. The rib grooves 67 extend radially from the rotation axis A1. The rib grooves 67 intersect with, for example, the second insertion groove 63 and the third insertion groove 64. The rib grooves 67 extend so as to cross the locations where the recesses 56 are located. The depth of the rib grooves 67 is smaller than the depth of the insertion grooves 61. The depth of the rib grooves 67 is the length from the mounting surface 49 to the bottom of the rib grooves 67. The depth of the insertion grooves 61 is the length from the mounting surface 49 to the bottom of the insertion grooves 61.

[0056] The elastic portion 46 has a protruding portion 68. The protruding portion 68 protrudes from the mounting surface 49 toward the base material 47. The protruding portion 68 is located outside the recessed portion 56 with respect to the rotation axis A1. More specifically, the protruding portion 68 is located outside the rib groove 67 with respect to the rotation axis A1. The protruding portion 68 is located on the outer periphery of the elastic portion 46. The protruding portion 68 is located at the outermost edge of the elastic portion 46 when viewed from the axial direction D1, for example. The protruding portion 68 extends in an annular shape when viewed from the axial direction D1, for example.

[0057] 6, the base material 47 supports the elastic portion 46. The base material 47 rotates integrally with the elastic portion 46. The rotation of the base material 47 causes the rotation of the elastic portion 46. The base material 47 is, for example, disk-shaped.

[0058] The base material 47 has a support surface 70. The support surface 70 faces the mounting surface 49. The support surface 70 contacts the mounting surface 49. The base material 47 contacts the pressing member 33. More specifically, the surface of the base material 47 opposite the support surface 70 contacts the pressing member 33.

[0059] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 9 , the base material 47 has one or more insertion portions 71. The insertion portions 71 extend from the support surface 70. The insertion portions 71 protrude toward the elastic portion 46. The insertion portions 71 are inserted into the elastic portion 46. More specifically, the insertion portions 71 are inserted into the insertion grooves 61. When the insertion portions 71 are inserted into the insertion grooves 61, the support surface 70 comes into contact with the mounting surface 49. When the insertion portions 71 are inserted into the insertion grooves 61, they support the lip 50.

[0060] The insertion portion 71 includes a first insertion portion 72. The first insertion portion 72 is inserted into the first insertion groove 62. The first insertion portion 72 extends in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis A1. The insertion portion 71 includes a second insertion portion 73. The second insertion portion 73 is inserted into the second insertion groove 63. The second insertion portion 73 extends in an annular shape centered on the rotation axis A1. The insertion portion 71 includes a third insertion portion 74. The third insertion portion 74 is inserted into the third insertion groove 64. The third insertion portion 74 extends in an annular shape centered on the rotation axis A1. The insertion portion 71 includes a plurality of fourth insertion portions 75. The insertion portion 71 includes, for example, two fourth insertion portions 75. The two fourth insertion portions 75 are inserted into the two first connection insertion grooves 65, respectively. The insertion portion 71 includes a plurality of fifth insertion portions 76. The insertion portion 71 includes, for example, two fifth insertion portions 76. The two fifth insertion portions 76 are inserted into the two second connection insertion grooves 66, respectively.

[0061] The length of the insertion portion 71 is smaller than the depth of the insertion groove 61. The length of the insertion portion 71 is the length from the base end of the insertion portion 71, i.e., the support surface 70, to the tip of the insertion portion 71. The length of the insertion portion 71 is the dimension of the insertion portion 71 in the axial direction D1. Because the length of the insertion portion 71 is smaller than the depth of the insertion groove 61, a gap is formed between the tip of the insertion portion 71 and the bottom of the insertion groove 61. This gap makes it easier for the lip 50 to bend when it comes into contact with the contact surface 36. This makes it easier for the lip 50 to bend in accordance with the contact surface 36. Therefore, the lip 50 is more likely to adhere to the housing 31.

[0062] The base material 47 has a plurality of ribs 77. The ribs 77 protrude from the support surface 70. The ribs 77 extend toward the elastic portion 46. The length of the ribs 77 is shorter than the length of the insertion portion 71. The length of the ribs 77 is the length from the base end of the ribs 77, i.e., the support surface 70, to the tip of the ribs 77. The length of the ribs 77 is the dimension of the ribs 77 in the axial direction D1.

[0063] The multiple ribs 77 extend radially around the rotation axis A1. For example, the ribs 77 extend so as to penetrate the insertion portion 71. The multiple ribs 77 are inserted into the multiple rib grooves 67, respectively. This allows the base material 47 and the elastic portion 46 to rotate integrally.

[0064] The frictional force between the elastic portion 46 and the housing 31 acts on the tip of the lip 50. Therefore, it is preferable that the base material 47 be supported by the rib 77 at a location close to the tip of the lip 50. In contrast, in this example, the base material 47 is supported by the rib 77 at a location far from the tip of the lip 50, for example, at a location that becomes the base end of the lip 50.

[0065] If the lip 50 is supported by the rib 77 at a location close to its tip, the rib groove 67 will be located inside the lip 50. In this case, there is a risk that the thickness of the lip 50 will be uneven. If the thickness of the lip 50 is uneven, it will be difficult for the lip 50 to contact the contact surface 36 with uniform pressure. This could result in a decrease in the sealing performance between the rotary valve 32 and the housing 31. Therefore, in this example, the rib 77 supports the base end of the lip 50, thereby making the thickness of the lip 50 uniform.

[0066] The base material 47 has a support portion 78. The support portion 78 is located on the outer side of the insertion portion 71 with respect to the rotation axis A1. The support portion 78 is located on the outer edge of the base material 47 when viewed from the axial direction D1, for example.

[0067] The support portion 78 supports the protrusion 68. The support portion 78 includes a groove into which the protrusion 68 is inserted. The support portion 78 supports the protrusion 68 from the outside, centered on the rotation axis A1. The support portion 78, for example, surrounds the protrusion 68. This reduces the risk of the elastic portion 46 deforming so as to expand outwardly, centered on the rotation axis A1. As a result, the sealing performance between the rotary valve 32 and the housing 31 is less likely to deteriorate.

[0068] The substrate 47 has one or more protrusions 79. The substrate 47 has, for example, four protrusions 79. The four protrusions 79 protrude in the radial direction from the outer circumferential surface of the substrate 47. The four protrusions 79 are located, for example, at positions that are point-symmetric with respect to each other with respect to the axial direction D1.

[0069] As shown in Figure 6, the pressing member 33 contacts the drive gear 34 and the rotary valve 32. More specifically, the pressing member 33 contacts the drive gear 34 and the substrate 47. The pressing member 33 presses the rotary valve 32 against the contact surface 36. More specifically, the pressing member 33 presses the substrate 47 against the elastic portion 46. This causes the elastic portion 46 to be pressed against the contact surface 36. The pressing member 33 is, for example, a spring.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 3 , the drive gear 34 has a gear portion 81 and a holding portion 82. The gear portion 81 is rotated by a drive source such as a motor. When the gear portion 81 rotates, the holding portion 82 rotates together with the gear portion 81. The holding portion 82 has one or more holding grooves 83. The holding portion 82 has, for example, four holding grooves 83. The protrusions 79 are inserted into the holding grooves 83. This allows the holding portion 82 to hold the rotary valve 32. When the holding portion 82 rotates, the base material 47 rotates. Therefore, the drive gear 34 rotates the rotary valve 32.

[0071] Next, a specific operation of the flow path switching unit 24 will be described. The flow path switching unit 24 switches the flow path in response to maintenance by the maintenance unit 20. That is, the flow path switching unit 24 changes to a different switching pattern in response to maintenance by the maintenance unit 20. In the flow path switching unit 24, the switching pattern is determined, for example, by the rotational phase of the rotary valve 32. In this example, there are five switching patterns. The rotational phase of the rotary valve 32 changes in response to maintenance by the maintenance unit 20.

[0072] 10 , in the first switching pattern, the first flow path 41 and the second flow path 42 face the first recess 57. The third flow path 43 faces the second recess 58. The fourth flow path 44 does not face the open recess 59. In the first switching pattern, the suction pump 22 communicates with the inside of the cap 21.

[0073] The flow path switching unit 24 changes to the first switching pattern when the maintenance unit 20 cleans the head 12. In the first switching pattern, the cap 21 comes into contact with the head 12. When the flow path switching unit 24 is in the first switching pattern, the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32 is, for example, 0 degrees.

[0074] 11, in the second switching pattern, the first flow path 41 and the second flow path 42 face the first recess 57. The third flow path 43 faces the second recess 58. The fourth flow path 44 faces the open recess 59. In the second switching pattern, the suction pump 22 communicates with the inside of the cap 21, and the inside of the cap 21 communicates with the atmosphere.

[0075] The flow path switching unit 24 changes to the second switching pattern when the maintenance unit 20 performs dry suction inside the cap 21. In the second switching pattern, the cap 21 comes into contact with the head 12. When the flow path switching unit 24 is in the second switching pattern, the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32 is, for example, 45 degrees.

[0076] 12, in the third switching pattern, the first flow path 41 and the second flow path 42 face the first recess 57. The third flow path 43 faces the second recess 58. The fourth flow path 44 faces the open recess 59. In the third switching pattern, similar to the second switching pattern, the suction pump 22 communicates with the inside of the cap 21, and the inside of the cap 21 communicates with the atmosphere.

[0077] When the maintenance unit 20 wipes the head 12, the flow path switching unit 24 changes to the third switching pattern. In the third switching pattern, the wiper 30 is positioned so that it can contact the head 12. In the third switching pattern, the cap 21 is positioned so that it does not contact the head 12. In the third switching pattern, dry suction is performed simultaneously with wiping. When the flow path switching unit 24 is in the third switching pattern, the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32 is, for example, 90 degrees.

[0078] 13, in the fourth switching pattern, the first flow path 41 and the second flow path 42 face the first recess 57. The third flow path 43 faces the second recess 58. The fourth flow path 44 does not face the open recess 59. In the fourth switching pattern, the suction pump 22 communicates with the inside of the cap 21, as in the first switching pattern.

[0079] When the maintenance unit 20 completes wiping of the head 12, the flow path switching unit 24 changes to the fourth switching pattern. In the fourth switching pattern, the wiper 30 is positioned so as not to contact the head 12. In the fourth switching pattern, the cap 21 is positioned so as not to contact the head 12. Therefore, in the fourth switching pattern, idle suction is performed. When the flow path switching unit 24 is in the fourth switching pattern, the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32 is, for example, 135 degrees.

[0080] The maintenance unit 20 performs maintenance in the order of cleaning, dry suction, and wiping by changing the flow path switching unit 24 in the order of, for example, the first switching pattern, the second switching pattern, the third switching pattern, and the fourth switching pattern.

[0081] 14, in the fifth switching pattern, the first flow path 41 and the third flow path 43 face the first recess 57. The second flow path 42 faces the second recess 58. The fourth flow path 44 does not face the open recess 59. In the fifth switching pattern, the suction pump 22 communicates with the supply flow path 17.

[0082] The flow path switching unit 24 changes to the fifth switching pattern when the maintenance unit 20 discharges air bubbles in the supply flow path 17. In the fifth switching pattern, the cap 21 may or may not be in contact with the head 12. When the flow path switching unit 24 is in the fifth switching pattern, the rotation phase of the rotary valve 32 is, for example, 270 degrees.

[0083] Next, the operation and effects of the above embodiment will be described. (1) The flow path switching unit 24 includes a rotating rotary valve 32, a housing 31 having a contact surface 36 with which the rotary valve 32 comes into contact, and a pressing member 33 that presses the rotary valve 32 against the contact surface 36. The housing 31 has a first flow path 41 that opens at the contact surface 36, a second flow path 42 that opens at the contact surface 36, and a third flow path 43 that opens at the contact surface 36. The rotary valve 32 has an elastic portion 46 that comes into contact with the contact surface 36 and has a first recess 57 that faces the contact surface 36. As the rotary valve 32 rotates, the first recess 57 switches between a state in which it faces the first flow path 41 and the second flow path 42 and a state in which it faces the first flow path 41 and the third flow path 43.

[0084] According to the above configuration, even if the elastic portion 46 is worn, the pressing member 33 presses the rotary valve 32 against the contact surface 36, thereby maintaining contact between the elastic portion 46 and the contact surface 36. For example, even if the tip of the lip 50 is worn, the pressing member 33 presses the elastic portion 46 against the contact surface 36, thereby maintaining contact between the lip 50 and the contact surface 36. This maintains the sealing performance between the rotary valve 32 and the housing 31. Therefore, the flow path can be switched appropriately.

[0085] (2) The rotary valve 32 has a base material 47 that supports the elastic portion 46. The base material 47 comes into contact with the pressing member 33. According to the above configuration, compared to when the pressing member 33 directly presses the elastic portion 46, the pressing force of the pressing member 33 is more likely to act uniformly on the elastic portion 46. This improves the sealing performance between the rotary valve 32 and the housing 31.

[0086] (3) The base material 47 has an insertion portion 71 that is inserted into the elastic portion 46. The insertion portion 71 protrudes toward the elastic portion 46. The elastic portion 46 has an insertion groove 61 into which the insertion portion 71 is inserted. The length of the insertion portion 71 is smaller than the depth of the insertion groove 61.

[0087] According to the above configuration, a gap is created between the tip of the insertion portion 71 and the bottom of the insertion groove 61. This makes it easier for the elastic portion 46 to bend. More specifically, the lip 50 to bend. The elastic portion 46 bends in accordance with the contact surface 36, improving the sealing performance between the rotary valve 32 and the housing 31.

[0088] (4) The base material 47 has a plurality of ribs 77 extending radially from the rotation axis A1 of the rotary valve 32. The elastic portion 46 has a plurality of rib grooves 67 into which the plurality of ribs 77 are respectively inserted. With this configuration, the elastic portion 46 and the base material 47 are unlikely to come off when the rotary valve 32 rotates.

[0089] (5) The elastic portion 46 has a protruding portion 68 that protrudes toward the base material 47. The protruding portion 68 is located outside the recessed portion 56, centered on the rotation axis A1 of the rotary valve 32. The base material 47 has a support portion 78 that supports the protruding portion 68 from the outside, centered on the rotation axis A1.

[0090] According to the above configuration, the support portion 78 supports the protruding portion 68, thereby reducing the risk of the elastic portion 46 bending so as to expand outward around the rotation axis A1. This makes it less likely that the sealing performance between the rotary valve 32 and the housing 31 will be reduced. In particular, in this example, the lip 50 is pressed against the contact surface 36, which makes it easier for the elastic portion 46 to bend so as to expand outward around the rotation axis A1. Therefore, the support portion 78 supports the protruding portion 68 from the outside, allowing the lip 50 to appropriately contact the contact surface 36.

[0091] (6) The elastic portion 46 has a second recess 58 facing the contact surface 36. When the first flow path 41 and the second flow path 42 face the first recess 57, the second recess 58 faces the third flow path 43. When the first flow path 41 and the third flow path 43 face the first recess 57, the second recess 58 faces the second flow path 42.

[0092] According to the above configuration, when the first flow path 41 and the second flow path 42 communicate with each other, the second recess 58 can appropriately close the third flow path 43. When the first flow path 41 and the third flow path 43 communicate with each other, the second recess 58 can appropriately close the second flow path 42.

[0093] (7) The first flow path 41 is connected to the suction pump 22. The second flow path 42 is connected to the cap 21. The third flow path 43 is connected to the supply flow path 17. According to the above configuration, the flow path switching unit 24 can switch between a state in which the suction pump 22 and the cap 21 are connected and a state in which the suction pump 22 and the supply flow path 17 are connected.

[0094] This embodiment can be modified as follows: This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined and implemented within the scope of technical compatibility. The liquid ejected by the head 12 is not limited to ink, but may be a liquid in which particles of a functional material are dispersed or mixed in a liquid. For example, the head 12 may eject a liquid containing dispersed or dissolved materials such as electrode materials or pixel materials used in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays, electroluminescent displays, and surface-emitting displays.

[0095] The technical concepts and effects that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described below. (A) A flow path switching unit includes a rotating rotary valve, a housing having a contact surface with which the rotary valve contacts, and a pressing member that presses the rotary valve against the contact surface, wherein the housing has a first flow path that opens onto the contact surface, a second flow path that opens onto the contact surface, and a third flow path that opens onto the contact surface, and the rotary valve has an elastic portion that contacts the contact surface and has a recess that faces the contact surface, and the recess switches between a state facing the first flow path and the second flow path and a state facing the first flow path and the third flow path as the rotary valve rotates.

[0096] According to the above configuration, even if the elastic portion wears, the pressing member presses the rotary valve against the contact surface, thereby maintaining contact between the elastic portion and the contact surface. This maintains the sealing performance between the rotary valve and the housing, thereby enabling appropriate switching of the flow path.

[0097] (B) In the above-described flow path switching unit, the rotary valve may have a base material that supports the elastic portion, and the base material may be in contact with the pressing member. According to the above configuration, the pressing force of the pressing member is more likely to act uniformly on the elastic portion than when the pressing member directly presses the elastic portion, thereby improving the sealing performance between the rotary valve and the housing.

[0098] (C) In the above-mentioned flow path switching unit, the base material has an insertion portion that is inserted into the elastic portion, the insertion portion protruding toward the elastic portion, the elastic portion has an insertion groove into which the insertion portion is inserted, and the length of the insertion portion may be smaller than the depth of the insertion groove.

[0099] According to the above configuration, a gap is formed between the tip of the insertion portion and the bottom of the insertion groove. This makes it easier for the elastic portion to bend. The elastic portion bends to match the contact surface, improving the sealing performance between the rotary valve and the housing.

[0100] (D) In ​​the above flow path switching unit, the base material may have a plurality of ribs extending radially from the rotation axis of the rotary valve, and the elastic portion may have a plurality of rib grooves into which the plurality of ribs are respectively inserted. With this configuration, the elastic portion and the base material are less likely to come off when the rotary valve rotates.

[0101] (E) In the above-mentioned flow path switching unit, the elastic portion may have a protrusion that protrudes toward the base material, the protrusion being located outside the recess around the rotation axis of the rotary valve, and the base material may have a support portion that supports the protrusion from the outside around the rotation axis.

[0102] According to the above-described configuration, the support portion supports the protrusion, thereby reducing the risk of the elastic portion bending so as to expand outward around the rotation axis, thereby making it less likely that the sealing performance between the rotary valve and the housing will be reduced.

[0103] (F) In the above flow path switching unit, the recess may be a first recess, and the elastic portion may have a second recess facing the contact surface, and the second recess may face the third flow path when the first flow path and the second flow path face the first recess, and may face the second flow path when the first flow path and the third flow path face the first recess.

[0104] According to the above configuration, when the first flow path and the second flow path communicate with each other, the third flow path can be appropriately closed by the second recess.When the first flow path and the third flow path communicate with each other, the second flow path can be appropriately closed by the second recess.

[0105] (G) A liquid ejection device includes a head having a nozzle for ejecting liquid, a supply flow path for supplying liquid from a supply source to the head, a cap that covers the nozzle by contacting the head, a suction pump, and the above-mentioned flow path switching unit, wherein the first flow path is connected to the suction pump, the second flow path is connected to the cap, and the third flow path is connected to the supply flow path.

[0106] The above configuration provides the same effects as the above-described flow path switching unit. In addition, the flow path switching unit can switch between a state in which the suction pump is connected to the cap and a state in which the suction pump is connected to the supply flow path. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 11...liquid ejection device, 12...head, 13...nozzle, 14...carriage, 15...mounting portion, 16...supply source, 17...supply flow path, 18...supply pipe, 19...storage portion, 20...maintenance unit, 21...cap, 22...suction pump, 23...accommodation portion, 24...flow path switching unit, 25...suction pipe, 26...exhaust pipe, 27...open pipe, 28...connecting pipe, 29...discharge pipe, 30...wiper, 31...housing, 32...rotary valve, 33...pressing member, 34...drive gear, 35...connecting surface, 36...contact surface, 37...first flow path pipe, 38...second flow path pipe, 39...third flow path pipe, 40...fourth flow path pipe, 41...first flow path, 42...second flow path, 43...third flow path, 44...fourth flow path, 46...elastic portion, 47...substrate, 48... Opposing surface, 49...mounting surface, 50...lip, 51...first lip, 52...second lip, 53...third lip, 54...first connecting lip, 55...second connecting lip, 56...recess, 57...first recess, 58...second recess, 59...open recess, 60...through hole, 61...insertion groove, 62...first insertion groove, 63...second insertion groove, 64...third insertion groove, 65...first connecting insertion groove, 66...second connecting insertion groove, 67...rib groove, 68...protrusion, 70...support surface, 71...insertion portion, 72...first insertion portion, 73...second insertion portion, 74...third insertion portion, 75...fourth insertion portion, 76...fifth insertion portion, 77...rib, 78...support portion, 79...protrusion, 81...gear portion, 82...holding portion, 83...holding groove, 99...medium, A1...rotation axis, D1...axial direction.

Claims

1. A rotating rotary valve; a housing having a contact surface with which the rotary valve comes into contact; a pressing member that presses the rotary valve against the contact surface, The housing includes: a first flow path opening at the contact surface; a second flow path opening to the contact surface; a third flow path that opens to the contact surface, The rotary valve has an elastic portion that contacts the contact surface, and a recess that faces the contact surface. The elastic portion has The recessed portion is formed so as to connect the first flow path and the second flow path by the rotation of the rotary valve. and a state in which the second flow path faces the first flow path and the third flow path, The rotary valve has a base material that supports the elastic portion, The substrate is in contact with the pressing member, The base material is an insertion portion that is inserted into the elastic portion and protrudes toward the elastic portion. The insertion portion is provided. the elastic portion has an insertion groove into which the insertion portion is inserted, A flow path switching unit, characterized in that the length of the insertion portion is smaller than the depth of the insertion groove. tt.

2. A rotating rotary valve; a housing having a contact surface with which the rotary valve comes into contact; a pressing member that presses the rotary valve against the contact surface, The housing includes: a first flow path opening at the contact surface; a second flow path opening to the contact surface; a third flow path that opens to the contact surface, The rotary valve has an elastic portion that contacts the contact surface, and a recess that faces the contact surface. The elastic portion has The recessed portion is formed so as to connect the first flow path and the second flow path by the rotation of the rotary valve. and a state in which the second flow path faces the first flow path and the third flow path, The rotary valve has a base material that supports the elastic portion, The substrate is in contact with the pressing member, the base member has a plurality of ribs extending radially from a rotation axis of the rotary valve; The elastic portion has a plurality of rib grooves into which the plurality of ribs are inserted, respectively. A flow path switching unit.

3. A rotating rotary valve; a housing having a contact surface with which the rotary valve comes into contact; a pressing member that presses the rotary valve against the contact surface, The housing includes: a first flow path opening at the contact surface; a second flow path opening to the contact surface; a third flow path that opens to the contact surface, The rotary valve has an elastic portion that contacts the contact surface, and a recess that faces the contact surface. The elastic portion has The recessed portion is formed so as to connect the first flow path and the second flow path by the rotation of the rotary valve. and a state in which the second flow path faces the first flow path and the third flow path, The rotary valve has a base material that supports the elastic portion, The substrate is in contact with the pressing member, the elastic portion has a protruding portion that protrudes toward the base material, the protrusion is located outside the recess with respect to the rotation axis of the rotary valve, The base member has a support portion that supports the protrusion from the outside around the rotation axis. A flow path switching unit characterized by the above.

4. A rotating rotary valve; a housing having a contact surface with which the rotary valve comes into contact; a pressing member that presses the rotary valve against the contact surface, The housing includes: a first flow path opening at the contact surface; a second flow path opening to the contact surface; a third flow path that opens to the contact surface, The rotary valve has an elastic portion that contacts the contact surface, and a recess that faces the contact surface. The elastic portion has The recessed portion is formed so as to connect the first flow path and the second flow path by the rotation of the rotary valve. and a state in which the second flow path faces the first flow path and the third flow path, The recess is a first recess, the elastic portion has a second recess facing the contact surface, The second recess is When the first flow path and the second flow path face the first recess, the third flow path faces the first recess. death, When the first flow path and the third flow path face the first recess, the second flow path faces the first recess. A flow path switching unit characterized by:

5. a head having a nozzle for ejecting a liquid; a supply channel for supplying liquid from a supply source to the head; a cap that covers the nozzle by contacting the head; A suction pump; The flow path switching unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the first flow path is connected to the suction pump, the second flow path is connected to the cap, The liquid ejection device is characterized in that the third flow path is connected to the supply flow path.

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