Liquid dispensing device and control method for liquid dispensing device

Abstract

To provide a liquid discharge device and a control method of a liquid discharge device which can reduce a risk that a problem may occur on liquid discharging.SOLUTION: The liquid discharge device is provided with: a discharge unit which includes a first discharge part having a first nozzle surface whose first nozzle opens, which discharges first liquid from the first nozzle to a medium, and a second discharge part having a second nozzle surface whose second nozzle opens, which discharges second liquid containing components for flocculating the first liquid from the second nozzle to the medium; a detecting part that detects contacting of the discharge unit with the medium; and a notifying part that notifies of information for making the detecting part confirm the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface, when the detecting part detects contacting of the discharge unit with the medium.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid ejection apparatus and a control method for a liquid ejection apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a liquid ejection apparatus including an ejection portion that ejects liquid onto a medium, and a detection portion that detects contact between the medium and the ejection portion.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such a liquid ejection apparatus, when the medium comes into contact with the ejection portion, foreign matter may adhere to the ejection portion. Depending on the location where the foreign matter adheres, a problem may occur in liquid ejection.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] A liquid ejection apparatus that solves the above problem includes: a first ejection portion having a first nozzle surface in which a first nozzle opens, the first ejection portion ejecting a first liquid from the first nozzle onto a medium; an ejection unit including a second ejection portion having a second nozzle surface in which a second nozzle opens, the second ejection portion ejecting a second liquid containing a component that aggregates the first liquid from the second nozzle onto a medium; a detection portion that detects contact between the ejection unit and the medium; and a notification portion that notifies information for prompting confirmation of the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface when the detection portion detects contact between the ejection unit and the medium.

[0006] A control method for a liquid dispensing device that solves the above problems is a control method for a liquid dispensing device comprising a dispensing unit including a first dispensing unit having a first nozzle surface through which a first nozzle opens, the first dispensing unit dispensing liquid from the first nozzle into a medium, and a second dispensing unit having a second nozzle surface through which a second nozzle opens, the second dispensing unit dispensing a curing liquid containing a component for curing the liquid into the medium from the second nozzle, the control method for a liquid dispensing device that solves the above problems is comprising detecting contact between the dispensing unit and the medium, and when contact between the dispensing unit and the medium is detected, providing information to allow confirmation of the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a side view showing one embodiment of a liquid dispensing device. [Figure 2] This is a bottom view of the discharge unit. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of a liquid dispensing device viewed from the front. [Figure 4] This table shows the correspondence between the attachment location and the recovery process. [Figure 5] This is a front view showing an example of a confirmation screen. [Figure 6] This is a front view showing another example of the confirmation screen. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following describes one embodiment of a liquid ejection device with reference to the figures. The liquid ejection device is an inkjet printer that prints images such as characters and photographs by ejecting liquid onto a medium such as paper or fabric.

[0009] As shown in Figure 1, the liquid dispensing device 11 includes a housing 12. The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a cover 13. The cover 13 is attached to the housing 12. The cover 13 is openable and closable relative to the housing 12. In Figure 1, the cover 13 is closed. The user can access the inside of the housing 12 by opening the cover 13.

[0010] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a conveying unit 14. The conveying unit 14 is configured to convey the medium 99. The conveying unit 14 includes, for example, a conveying motor 15, a first pulley 16, a second pulley 17, and a conveying belt 18.

[0011] The first pulley 16 is connected to the conveyor motor 15. The first pulley 16 is rotated by the conveyor motor 15. The conveyor belt 18 is wrapped around the first pulley 16 and the second pulley 17. The conveyor belt 18 circulates along the first pulley 16 and the second pulley 17 as the first pulley 16 rotates. The medium 99 is adhered to the conveyor belt 18. For example, an adhesive is applied to the conveyor belt 18. This allows the conveyor belt 18 to support the medium 99. The conveyor belt 18 conveys the medium 99 by circulating. The medium 99 may be adhered to the conveyor belt 18 not only by adhesion, but also by static electricity, suction, etc.

[0012] The conveying unit 14 may have a pressing roller 19. The pressing roller 19 is a roller that presses the medium 99 against the conveying belt 18. By pressing the medium 99 against the conveying belt 18 with the pressing roller 19, the medium 99 is more easily adhered to the conveying belt 18.

[0013] The conveying section 14 may have a peeling roller 20. The peeling roller 20 is a roller that peels the medium 99 from the conveying belt 18. The medium 99 is wrapped around the peeling roller 20.

[0014] The conveying unit 14 may have a winding unit 21. The winding unit 21 winds up the medium 99 by rotating. As the winding unit 21 winds up the medium 99, the medium 99 is peeled off the conveying belt 18 via the peeling roller 20. The medium 99 may be peeled off the conveying belt 18 by being conveyed to a device other than the liquid dispensing device 11, for example.

[0015] The liquid dispensing device 11 may also include a peeling sensor 22. The peeling sensor 22 is a sensor that detects the position of the medium 99 being peeled off the conveyor belt 18. The peeling sensor 22 is, for example, an optical sensor. The peeling sensor 22 detects the position of the medium 99 being peeled off the conveyor belt 18 by, for example, detecting the distance to the medium 99 being peeled off the conveyor belt 18.

[0016] The position of the medium 99 being peeled off the conveyor belt 18 changes, for example, depending on the winding speed of the winding unit 21. When the winding speed is high, the tension on the medium 99 increases, causing the position of the medium 99 being peeled off the conveyor belt 18 to shift upstream on the conveyor belt 18. Conversely, when the winding speed is low, the position of the medium 99 being peeled off the conveyor belt 18 to shift downstream on the conveyor belt 18. Therefore, the liquid discharge device 11 can control the position of the medium 99 being peeled off the conveyor belt 18 by controlling the winding unit 21 based on the detection result of the peeling sensor 22.

[0017] The liquid dispensing device 11 may also include a cleaning unit 23. The cleaning unit 23 is a unit that cleans the conveyor belt 18. Foreign matter such as powder generated from the medium 99, lint, dust from the air, and liquid used for printing may adhere to the conveyor belt 18. If foreign matter adheres to the conveyor belt 18, the adhesive strength of the conveyor belt 18 may decrease. In addition, if foreign matter adheres to the conveyor belt 18, it may be transferred to the medium 99. By cleaning the conveyor belt 18 with the cleaning unit 23, these risks are reduced.

[0018] The cleaning unit 23 includes, for example, a storage tank 24, a cleaning brush 25, and a cleaning wiper 26. The storage tank 24 stores cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid is used for cleaning the conveyor belt 18. The cleaning liquid is, for example, water. The cleaning brush 25 is a brush that contacts the conveyor belt 18. The cleaning brush 25 rotates relative to the conveyor belt 18 to remove foreign matter adhering to the conveyor belt 18. The cleaning brush 25 is positioned such that a part thereof is immersed in the cleaning liquid stored in the storage tank 24. Accordingly, the cleaning brush 25 cleans the conveyor belt 18 while being wetted with the cleaning liquid. The cleaning wiper 26 removes the cleaning liquid adhering to the conveyor belt 18 by contacting the conveyor belt 18. That is, the cleaning wiper 26 removes the cleaning liquid adhering to the conveyor belt 18 by the cleaning brush 25.

[0019] The liquid ejecting apparatus 11 may include a drying section 27. The drying section 27 is configured to dry the conveyor belt 18 after cleaning. The conveyor belt 18 after cleaning may be wetted by the cleaning liquid. Therefore, when the drying section 27 dries the conveyor belt 18, the risk of the cleaning liquid adhering to the medium 99 via the conveyor belt 18 is reduced.

[0020] The drying section 27 is, for example, an absorption roller that absorbs the cleaning liquid adhering to the conveyor belt 18 by contacting the conveyor belt 18. This promotes drying of the conveyor belt 18. The drying section 27 may be, for example, a heater that dries the conveyor belt 18 by heating the conveyor belt 18, or may be a blower that dries the conveyor belt 18 by blowing gas onto the conveyor belt 18.

[0021] The liquid ejecting apparatus 11 includes an ejecting unit 28. The ejecting unit 28 is configured to eject liquid onto the medium 99. The ejecting unit 28 ejects liquid onto the medium 99 supported by the conveyor belt 18. Accordingly, an image is printed on the medium 99.

[0022] As shown in Figure 2, the discharge unit 28 has a holding section 29 and one or more discharge sections. The holding section 29 holds one or more discharge sections. An opening is formed in the bottom surface of the holding section 29, through which the discharge sections are exposed. The discharge sections are configured to discharge liquid. The discharge sections have a nozzle surface from which one or more nozzles open. The nozzle surface is a surface that extends in a first direction A1 and a second direction A2. The nozzle surface is, for example, flush with the bottom surface of the holding section 29. One or more nozzle rows may be formed on the nozzle surface. The nozzle row consists of a plurality of nozzles arranged in a row in the first direction A1. The discharge section has, for example, eight rows of nozzles.

[0023] The ejection unit 28 has one or more first ejection sections 31. The ejection unit 28 has, for example, six first ejection sections 31. The six first ejection sections 31 are arranged in a second direction A2. The first ejection section 31 has a first nozzle surface 33 from which one or more first nozzles 32 open. The first ejection section 31 ejects a first liquid from the first nozzles 32. The first liquid is a liquid that forms the colors of the image to be printed on the medium 99. The first liquid is, for example, a pigment ink. The first ejection section 31 may eject ink of a different color from each nozzle row.

[0024] The discharge unit 28 has, for example, one second discharge section 34. The second discharge section 34 is, for example, aligned with the first discharge section 31 in a second direction A2. More specifically, the second discharge section 34 is located between three first discharge sections 31 and three first discharge sections 31 in the second direction A2. This allows the second discharge section 34 to discharge liquid into the medium 99 while the first discharge sections 31 are discharging liquid into the medium 99.

[0025] The second dispensing unit 34 has a second nozzle surface 36 through which one or more second nozzles 35 open. The second dispensing unit 34 dispenses a second liquid from the second nozzles 35. The second liquid is a liquid containing a component that causes the first liquid to agglomerate. When the second liquid mixes with the first liquid, the pigment in the first liquid agglomerates. This makes it easier for the first liquid to adhere to the medium 99. As a result, the image quality is improved. By dispensing the first and second liquids in parallel onto the medium 99, the reactivity between the first and second liquids on the medium 99 is improved.

[0026] The discharge unit 28 may have one or more third discharge sections 37. For example, the discharge unit 28 may have two third discharge sections 37. The third discharge sections 37 are, for example, aligned with the first discharge section 31 and the second discharge section 34 in the second direction A2. More specifically, the two third discharge sections 37 are discharge sections located at both ends of a plurality of discharge sections aligned in the second direction A2. The third discharge section 37 has a third nozzle surface 39 from which one or more third nozzles 38 open. The third discharge section 37 discharges a third liquid from the third nozzles 38. The third liquid is a liquid that covers the image to be printed on the medium 99, a so-called overcoat liquid.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1, the liquid dispensing device 11 may include a movable part 40. The movable part 40 is configured to move the dispensing unit 28. The movable part 40 includes, for example, a carriage 41, a first guide shaft 42, a second guide shaft 43, a carriage motor 44, and an adjustment mechanism 45.

[0028] The carriage 41 is equipped with a discharge unit 28. The carriage 41 has a main body portion 46 and a base portion 47. The main body portion 46 is the part to which the discharge unit 28 is attached. The base portion 47 is the part that contacts the first guide shaft 42 and the second guide shaft 43.

[0029] The first guide shaft 42 and the second guide shaft 43 are, for example, cylindrical rods. The first guide shaft 42 and the second guide shaft 43 guide the movement of the carriage 41. This causes the carriage 41 to reciprocate in the second direction A2, i.e., scan against the medium 99. Therefore, the liquid dispensing device 11 is a serial printer. The liquid dispensing device 11 may also be a line printer capable of dispensing liquid simultaneously across the width of the medium 99.

[0030] The carriage motor 44 is a motor that moves the carriage 41. The carriage motor 44 moves the carriage 41, for example, via a timing belt (not shown).

[0031] The adjustment mechanism 45 is a mechanism for adjusting the position of the discharge unit 28. The adjustment mechanism 45 adjusts the position of the discharge unit 28 by moving the main body portion 46 relative to the base portion 47. More specifically, the adjustment mechanism 45 adjusts the distance between the discharge unit 28 and the medium 99 by moving the main body portion 46 in the vertical direction.

[0032] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a supply mechanism 48. The supply mechanism 48 is a mechanism that supplies liquid to the dispensing unit 28. The supply mechanism 48 supplies liquid from the liquid storage section 49 to the dispensing unit 28. The liquid storage section 49 is detachable from the liquid dispensing device 11. The liquid storage section 49 is, for example, a cartridge that stores liquid.

[0033] The supply mechanism 48 has a mounting section 50. The mounting section 50 is configured to be fitted with one or more liquid storage sections 49. When the discharge unit 28 discharges multiple types of liquids, multiple liquid storage sections 49, each containing a different type of liquid, are fitted to the mounting section 50. The supply mechanism 48 supplies multiple different types of liquids individually.

[0034] The supply mechanism 48 has a supply channel 51. The supply channel 51 is a channel through which liquid flows from the liquid storage section 49 to the discharge unit 28. The supply channel 51 includes, for example, a tube. The supply channel 51 is connected to the mounting section 50 and the discharge unit 28.

[0035] The supply mechanism 48 has a supply pump 52. The supply pump 52 is located in the supply passage 51. The supply pump 52 causes liquid to flow through the supply passage 51. The supply pump 52 includes, for example, a diaphragm pump 53, an intake valve 54, and a discharge valve 55. The intake valve 54 and the discharge valve 55 are one-way valves. The intake valve 54 is located upstream of the diaphragm pump 53 in the supply passage 51. The intake valve 54 allows liquid to flow from the liquid containment section 49 to the diaphragm pump 53. The discharge valve 55 is located downstream of the diaphragm pump 53 in the supply passage 51. The discharge valve 55 allows liquid to flow from the diaphragm pump 53 toward the discharge unit 28.

[0036] The supply pump 52 can pressurize the liquid in the discharge section. This allows the supply pump 52 to perform pressurized cleaning. Pressurized cleaning is a maintenance procedure in which the supply pump 52 pressurizes the liquid in the discharge section, forcibly discharging the liquid from the nozzle. Pressurized cleaning discharges air bubbles, foreign matter, and other contaminants along with the liquid from the discharge section.

[0037] The supply mechanism 48 may have a filter unit 56. The filter unit 56 is located in the supply channel 51. More specifically, the filter unit 56 is located downstream of the supply pump 52 in the supply channel 51. The filter unit 56 is configured to remove bubbles, foreign matter, etc. from the liquid flowing through the supply channel 51. The filter unit 56 is detachable from the supply channel 51. The filter unit 56 can be replaced by opening the cover 13.

[0038] The supply mechanism 48 may have a static mixer 57. The static mixer 57 is located in the supply channel 51. More specifically, the static mixer 57 is located downstream of the filter unit 56 in the supply channel 51. The static mixer 57 is configured to agitate the liquid flowing through the supply channel 51.

[0039] The supply mechanism 48 may have a storage section 58. The storage section 58 is located in the supply channel 51. More specifically, the storage section 58 is located downstream of the static mixer 57 in the supply channel 51. The storage section 58 is configured to temporarily store liquid.

[0040] The supply mechanism 48 may have a pressure regulating unit 59. The pressure regulating unit 59 is located in the supply channel 51. More specifically, the pressure regulating unit 59 is located downstream of the storage section 58 in the supply channel 51. The pressure regulating unit 59 is configured to regulate the pressure of the liquid. The pressure regulating unit 59 includes, for example, a differential pressure valve that opens and closes according to the pressure difference. The pressure regulating unit 59 maintains a constant pressure in the discharge section. During pressurized cleaning, the pressure regulating unit 59 opens the discharge section.

[0041] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a notification unit 60. The notification unit 60 is configured to notify the user of information. The notification unit 60 includes, for example, a display unit 61. The notification unit 60 notifies the user of information through the display of the display unit 61. The display unit 61 is, for example, mounted on the housing 12. The display unit 61 is, for example, a touch panel. The notification unit 60 accepts operations from the user, for example, through the display unit 61. The notification unit 60 is not limited to a touch panel, but may also accept operations from the user through, for example, buttons and levers. The notification unit 60 is not limited to a display unit 61, but may also have, for example, a lamp. The notification unit 60 may also notify the user of information through the lighting pattern of the lamp. The content of the notification from the notification unit 60 will be described later.

[0042] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a control unit 62. The control unit 62 is configured to control the liquid dispensing device 11. For example, the control unit 62 controls the transport unit 14, the dispensing unit 28, the moving unit 40, and the supply mechanism 48.

[0043] The control unit 62 may consist of one or more processors that perform various processes according to a computer program. The control unit 62 may consist of one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as application-specific integrated circuits, that perform at least some of the various processes. The control unit 62 may consist of a circuit that includes a combination of processors and hardware circuits. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to perform processes. Memory, i.e., computer-readable media, includes any readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0044] As shown in Figure 3, the liquid dispensing device 11 includes a cap unit 63. The cap unit 63 is aligned with the conveyor belt 18 in the second direction A2, for example. The cap unit 63 is a unit that caps the dispensing section. Capping is a maintenance process that moistens the nozzle by contacting the nozzle surface.

[0045] The cap unit 63 has one or more caps 64. The cap unit 63 has multiple caps 64, for example, to cap multiple dispensing sections, each of which is capped. When a cap 64 contacts a nozzle surface, a space is formed within the cap 64 that communicates with the nozzle. This keeps the nozzle moist. For example, the cap 64 moistens the first nozzle 32 by contacting the first nozzle surface 33. For example, the cap 64 moistens the second nozzle 35 by contacting the second nozzle surface 36. For example, the cap 64 moistens the third nozzle 38 by contacting the third nozzle surface 39. The cap 64 may receive liquid discharged by pressurized cleaning.

[0046] The cap unit 63 may have a suction pump 65. The suction pump 65 is connected to the cap 64. The suction pump 65 sucks the nozzle by sucking the inside of the cap 64. This allows the cap unit 63 to perform suction cleaning. Suction cleaning is a maintenance method in which the suction pump 65 sucks the inside of the cap 64 while it is capped, forcibly discharging liquid from the nozzle. The cap unit 63 may perform suction cleaning for each discharge part, or it may perform suction cleaning for multiple discharge parts at once.

[0047] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a wiping section 66. The wiping section 66 is, for example, aligned with the cap unit 63 in the second direction A2. The wiping section 66 is configured to wipe the dispensing section. The wiping section 66 is, for example, a cloth wiper. The wiping section 66 removes liquid adhering to the nozzle surface by wiping the nozzle surface. When pressurized cleaning, suction cleaning, etc., liquid is discharged from the nozzle, making it easy for liquid to adhere to the nozzle surface. Therefore, the wiping section 66 wipes the nozzle surface, for example, after pressurized cleaning and after suction cleaning.

[0048] The wiping unit 66 wipes the first nozzle surface 33, the second nozzle surface 36, or both. In addition to the first nozzle surface 33 and the second nozzle surface 36, the wiping unit 66 may also wipe the third nozzle surface 39. The liquid dispensing device 11 may be equipped with multiple wiping units 66 to correspond to multiple nozzle surfaces.

[0049] The wiping unit 66 wipes the nozzle surface in the wiping direction by the relative movement of the wiping unit 66 and the discharge unit 28. The wiping direction is, for example, a first direction A1. Therefore, for example, the wiping unit 66 wipes the nozzle surface by moving in the first direction A1 relative to the discharge unit 28. The first direction A1 is, for example, the direction opposite to the direction in which the medium 99 moves on the conveyor belt 18. The wiping unit 66 wipes the nozzle surface for each discharge unit.

[0050] The liquid dispensing device 11 includes a detection unit 67. The detection unit 67 is configured to detect contact between the dispensing unit 28 and the medium 99. The detection unit 67 includes, for example, a piezoelectric element that generates an electric current by contacting the medium 99. The detection unit 67 is attached, for example, to the moving unit 40. More specifically, the detection unit 67 is attached to the carriage 41 so as to sandwich the dispensing unit 28 in a second direction A2. When the medium 99 comes into contact with the detection unit 67, there is a high probability that the medium 99 will come into contact with the dispensing unit 28. Therefore, the detection unit 67 detects that the dispensing unit 28 and the medium 99 have come into contact when it itself comes into contact with the medium 99.

[0051] In the liquid dispensing device 11, the medium 99 may lift up from the conveyor belt 18. In this case, the medium 99 may come into contact with the dispensing unit 28, particularly the nozzle surface, as it floats above the conveyor belt 18. If the medium 99 comes into contact with the nozzle surface, foreign matter may adhere to the nozzle surface. If foreign matter adheres to the nozzle surface, the liquid may not be dispensed properly from the nozzle.

[0052] When the medium 99 comes into contact with the nozzle surface, aggregates of the first liquid and the second liquid may adhere to the nozzle surface. For example, when the medium 99 comes into contact with the nozzle surface, aggregates on the medium 99 may be transferred to the nozzle surface. For example, when the first liquid adhering to the medium 99 is transferred to the second nozzle surface 36, aggregates may be formed on the second nozzle surface 36. For example, when the second liquid adhering to the medium 99 is transferred to the first nozzle surface 33, aggregates may be formed on the first nozzle surface 33. For example, when the first liquid adhering to the medium 99 is transferred to the nozzle surface, aggregates may be formed on the nozzle surface due to the mist of the second liquid. For example, when the medium 99 comes into contact with the nozzle surface, the medium 99 may draw liquid from the nozzle, potentially causing aggregates to form between the medium 99 and the nozzle surface.

[0053] If the wiping unit 66 wipes the nozzle surface while aggregates are adhering to it, there is a risk that the wiping unit 66 will push the aggregates into the nozzle. For example, if aggregates enter the first nozzle 32, the first liquid will react with the aggregates in the first nozzle 32, potentially causing the aggregates to block the first nozzle 32. The same applies if aggregates enter the second nozzle 35. Therefore, the liquid dispensing device 11 needs to perform appropriate recovery processing depending on the location of the aggregates.

[0054] The liquid dispensing device 11 may include an imaging unit 68. The imaging unit 68 is, for example, aligned with the wiping unit 66 in a second direction A2. The imaging unit 68 is configured to image the nozzle surface. The imaging unit 68 is, for example, a digital camera. The imaging unit 68 images the first nozzle surface 33, the second nozzle surface 36, or both. The imaging unit 68 may also image the third nozzle surface 39. The image captured by the imaging unit 68 is displayed on the display unit 61. The imaging unit 68 images the nozzle surface to allow the user to confirm the presence or absence of aggregates on the nozzle surface, the location of the aggregates, etc. The imaging unit 68 images the nozzle surface, for example, when the detection unit 67 detects contact with the medium 99. The user can confirm the nozzle surface by looking at the display unit 61.

[0055] The presence or absence of aggregates and the location of their attachment can be confirmed not only by viewing the image captured by the imaging unit 68, but also by the user directly visually inspecting the nozzle surface. For example, when the detection unit 67 detects contact with the medium 99, the moving unit 40 may be moved to the confirmation position P1. The confirmation position P1 is the position of the discharge unit 28 from which the user can directly visually inspect the nozzle surface. At the confirmation position P1, the user can directly visually inspect the first nozzle surface 33, the second nozzle surface 36, or both. At the confirmation position P1, the user may also be able to directly visually inspect the third nozzle surface 39. By directly visually inspecting the nozzle surface, the user can confirm the presence or absence of aggregates on the nozzle surface, the location of their attachment, etc.

[0056] <Contents of the report> Next, the notification content of the notification unit 60 will be described. When the detection unit 67 detects contact between the discharge unit 28 and the medium 99, the notification unit 60 notifies information prompting the user to check the nozzle surface. The notification unit 60 prompts the user to check the nozzle surface, for example, by displaying a message on the display unit 61. This allows the user to check the nozzle surface. Therefore, the control method for the liquid discharge device 11 includes detecting contact between the discharge unit 28 and the medium 99, and, when contact between the discharge unit 28 and the medium 99 is detected, notifying information prompting the user to check the first nozzle surface 33 and the second nozzle surface 36. If aggregates are attached to the nozzle surface, the user removes the aggregates attached to the nozzle surface. When the notification unit 60 notifies information prompting the user to check the nozzle surface, the imaging unit 68 may automatically image the nozzle surface, or the moving unit 40 may automatically move the discharge unit 28 to the confirmation position P1.

[0057] The notification unit 60 may also notify guide information. The guide information is information indicating a recovery process corresponding to the adhesion location of the aggregate. That is, the guide information is information indicating an appropriate recovery process according to the adhesion location of the aggregate. The guide information may be information indicating only the recovery process corresponding to the adhesion location selected by the user, or it may be information listing multiple different recovery processes for each adhesion location. By checking the guide information, the user can perform an appropriate recovery process according to the adhesion location of the aggregate.

[0058] As shown in Figure 4, the recovery process includes, for example, multiple processes depending on the location where the aggregates are attached. If the aggregates are attached at the first location, the guide information indicates that the first process is appropriate as the recovery process. If the aggregates are attached at the second location, the guide information indicates that the second process is appropriate as the recovery process. If the aggregates are attached at the third location, the guide information indicates that the third process is appropriate as the recovery process.

[0059] As shown in Figure 2, the first process is a recovery process corresponding to the first position Q1. The first process involves removing aggregates from the nozzle surface with a cleaning stick, performing pressurized cleaning, and finally wiping the nozzle surface with a wiping unit 66. The cleaning stick is a cleaning member impregnated with a removal liquid for removing aggregates. The user removes the aggregates by rubbing them with the cleaning stick. Subsequently, by performing pressurized cleaning and wiping the nozzle surface with the wiping unit 66, the removal liquid adhering to the nozzle surface and any aggregates remaining on the nozzle surface are removed. Pressurized cleaning may be omitted in the first process, but performing pressurized cleaning wets the nozzle surface, improving the cleaning effect of the wiping unit 66.

[0060] The first position Q1 is a position upstream of the nozzle in the wiping direction. More specifically, the first position Q1 includes a position upstream of the first nozzle 32 in the wiping direction and a position upstream of the second nozzle 35 in the wiping direction. The first position Q1 may also include a position upstream of the third nozzle 38 in the wiping direction. If aggregates adhere to the first position Q1, wiping the nozzle surface with the wiping unit 66 may cause the wiping unit 66 to push the aggregates into the nozzle. Therefore, it is necessary to remove the aggregates before wiping the nozzle surface with the wiping unit 66. Accordingly, if the position where the aggregates adhere is the first position Q1, the first treatment is appropriate.

[0061] The second process is a recovery process corresponding to the second position Q2. The second process involves performing suction cleaning, followed by wiping the nozzle surface with the wiping unit 66. In other words, in the second process, suction cleaning is performed instead of pressurized cleaning, and then the nozzle surface is wiped with the wiping unit 66.

[0062] The second position Q2 is a position that overlaps with the nozzle. More specifically, the second position Q2 includes a position that overlaps with the first nozzle 32 and a position that overlaps with the second nozzle 35. The second position Q2 may also include a position that overlaps with the third nozzle 38. If aggregates adhere to the second position Q2, wiping the nozzle surface with the wiping unit 66 may cause the wiping unit 66 to push the aggregates into the nozzle. Also, rubbing the aggregates with the cleaning stick may cause the cleaning stick to push the aggregates into the nozzle. Therefore, suction cleaning is performed to discharge the aggregates from the nozzle. When liquid is discharged from the nozzle by suction cleaning, the viscosity of the aggregates decreases. This makes it easier to remove the aggregates with the wiping unit 66. In addition, with suction cleaning, the liquid is discharged from the nozzle with more force compared to pressurized cleaning. This makes it easier to remove the aggregates from the nozzle surface. Therefore, if the position where the aggregates adhere is the second position Q2, the second treatment is appropriate.

[0063] The third process is a recovery process corresponding to the third position Q3. The third process involves performing pressurized cleaning and then wiping the nozzle surface with the wiping unit 66. Pressurized cleaning may be omitted in the third process, but performing pressurized cleaning wets the nozzle surface, improving the cleaning effect of the wiping unit 66.

[0064] The third position Q3 is a position downstream of the nozzle in the wiping direction. More specifically, the third position Q3 includes a position downstream of the first nozzle 32 in the wiping direction and a position downstream of the second nozzle 35 in the wiping direction. The third position Q3 may also include a position downstream of the third nozzle 38 in the wiping direction. When aggregates adhere to the third position Q3, wiping the nozzle surface with the wiping unit 66 does not risk pushing the aggregates into the nozzle. Therefore, wiping the nozzle surface with the wiping unit 66 removes the aggregates from the nozzle surface. Accordingly, the third treatment is appropriate when the location of adhesion of aggregates is the third position Q3.

[0065] As shown in Figure 5, the display unit 61 may display a confirmation screen 71 that includes guide information. The confirmation screen 71 is a screen that allows the user to confirm the location of adhesion of aggregates. The confirmation screen 71 includes, for example, a confirmation display 72 that prompts the user to confirm the adhesion location, a confirmation image 73 for confirming the adhesion location, and a recovery display 74 which is an example of guide information. The confirmation display 72 is displayed, for example, as a message.

[0066] The confirmation image 73 may be an image of the nozzle surface captured by the imaging unit 68, or it may be an illustration image that mimics the nozzle surface. In the confirmation image 73, the area indicated by the dashed line corresponds to the first position Q1, the area indicated by the dashed line corresponds to the second position Q2, and the area indicated by the double dashed line corresponds to the third position Q3. The user specifies the attachment position by selecting, for example, the area indicated by the dashed line, the area indicated by the dashed line, and the area indicated by the double dashed line in the confirmation image 73. The attachment position may be specified through the display unit 61, or through buttons and levers.

[0067] When an attachment location is specified, a recovery indicator 74 is displayed on the confirmation screen 71. The recovery indicator 74 indicates the recovery process corresponding to the specified attachment location. The recovery indicator 74 is displayed, for example, as a message. If the area indicated by the dashed line in the confirmation image 73 is specified, the recovery indicator 74 indicates the first process. If the area indicated by the dashed line in the confirmation image 73 is specified, the recovery indicator 74 indicates the second process. If the area indicated by the double dashed line in the confirmation image 73 is specified, the recovery indicator 74 indicates the third process. This allows the user to perform the appropriate recovery process according to the attachment location. The recovery process may also be performed automatically when an attachment location is specified.

[0068] The display unit 61 may display an OK button 75 on the confirmation screen 71. The OK button 75 is a button that starts the recovery process displayed on the recovery display 74. When the user operates the OK button 75, the recovery process is performed by the liquid dispensing device 11.

[0069] For example, if the recovery indicator 74 displays the first process, the user cleans with the cleaning stick and then operates the OK button 75. This performs pressurized cleaning and wiping of the nozzle surface with the wiping unit 66. At this time, pressurized cleaning and wiping with the wiping unit 66 may be performed only on the discharge section located downstream of the adhesion position, or pressurized cleaning and wiping with the wiping unit 66 may be performed on all discharge sections.

[0070] For example, if the recovery indicator 74 displays the second process, the user can operate the OK button 75 to perform suction cleaning and wiping of the nozzle surface by the wiping unit 66. At this time, suction cleaning and wiping by the wiping unit 66 may be performed only on the discharge section having the nozzle designated as the adhesion position, or suction cleaning and wiping by the wiping unit 66 may be performed on all discharge sections.

[0071] For example, if the recovery indicator 74 displays the third process, the user can operate the OK button 75 to perform pressurized cleaning and wiping of the nozzle surface by the wiping unit 66. At this time, pressurized cleaning and wiping by the wiping unit 66 may be performed only on the discharge section located upstream of the adhesion position, or pressurized cleaning and wiping by the wiping unit 66 may be performed on all discharge sections.

[0072] The display unit 61 may display an exit button 76 on the confirmation screen 71. The exit button 76 is a button that ends the display of the confirmation screen 71. The user operates the exit button 76 when no aggregates are found to be attached to the nozzle surface. When the exit button 76 is operated, the liquid dispensing device 11 may perform a nozzle check. The nozzle check checks whether liquid is discharged normally from the nozzle. The nozzle check is performed, for example, by dispensing liquid from the nozzle into the medium 99.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6, the recovery display 74 may enumerate combinations of attachment locations and recovery processes. In this case, the confirmation image 73 is superimposed with a dashed line area indicating the first location Q1, a dashed-dotted line area indicating the second location, and a dashed-dotted line area indicating the third location Q3. In this example, the recovery display 74 is displayed on the confirmation screen 71 without any attachment location being selected in the confirmation image 73.

[0074] The display unit 61 may display a first processing start button 77, a second processing start button 78, and a third processing start button 79 on the confirmation screen 71. The first processing start button 77 is the button to start the first processing. If the adhesion location is within the area indicated by the dashed line, the user removes the aggregate from the nozzle surface with the cleaning stick and then operates the first processing start button 77. The second processing start button 78 is the button to start the second processing. If the adhesion location is within the area indicated by the dashed line, the user operates the second processing start button 78. The third processing start button 79 is the button to start the third processing. If the adhesion location is within the area indicated by the double dashed line, the user operates the third processing start button 79.

[0075] <Mechanism and Effects> Next, the operation and effects of the above embodiment will be described. (1) When the detection unit 67 detects contact between the discharge unit 28 and the medium 99, the notification unit 60 notifies the first nozzle surface 33 and the second nozzle surface 36 of information.

[0076] When the discharge unit 28 comes into contact with the medium 99, aggregates of the first liquid and the second liquid may adhere to the first nozzle surface 33 or the second nozzle surface 36. If aggregates adhere to the nozzle surface, the liquid may not be able to be discharged properly from the nozzle. In particular, if the aggregates enter the nozzle, the nozzle may become blocked by the aggregates.

[0077] According to the above configuration, the notification unit 60 alerts the user to check the first nozzle surface 33 and the second nozzle surface 36. If aggregates are attached to the first nozzle surface 33 or the second nozzle surface 36, the user removes the aggregates to prevent them from entering the nozzle. Therefore, the risk of problems occurring in liquid discharge due to the attachment of aggregates is reduced.

[0078] (2) The notification unit 60 notifies information indicating a recovery process corresponding to the adhesion position, i.e., guide information, based on the adhesion position of aggregates adhering to the first nozzle surface 33 or the second nozzle surface 36.

[0079] According to the above configuration, the user can understand the recovery process corresponding to the location of the aggregate by checking the guide information. Therefore, the user can perform the appropriate recovery process according to the location of the aggregate.

[0080] (3) The display unit 61 displays the image captured by the imaging unit 68. The imaging unit 68 captures images of the first nozzle surface 33 and the second nozzle surface 36 when the detection unit 67 detects contact between the discharge unit 28 and the medium 99. With the above configuration, the user can check the nozzle surface without directly visually inspecting the nozzle surface. The user can check the location of aggregate adhesion by looking at the display unit 61.

[0081] (4) When the detection unit 67 detects contact between the discharge unit 28 and the medium 99, the moving unit 40 moves the discharge unit 28 to a position where the first nozzle surface 33 and the second nozzle surface 36 can be visually inspected by the user. With the above configuration, the user can easily visually inspect the nozzle surface. By visually inspecting the nozzle surface, the user can confirm the location of adhesion of aggregates.

[0082] (5) The display unit 61 displays guide information on the confirmation screen 71 that indicates the recovery process corresponding to the specified attachment location. With the above configuration, the user can perform appropriate recovery processing according to the location of the aggregate by looking at the display unit 61.

[0083] (6) When a position upstream of the first nozzle 32 in the wiping direction, or a position upstream of the second nozzle 35 in the wiping direction, is specified as the adhesion position, the display unit 61 displays guide information indicating a recovery process that causes the user to remove aggregates with the cleaning member.

[0084] If aggregates adhere upstream of the first nozzle 32 and upstream of the second nozzle 35 in the wiping direction, there is a risk that the wiping by the wiping unit 66 may push the aggregates into the first nozzle 32 or the second nozzle 35. Therefore, with the above configuration, the risk of aggregates entering the nozzles is reduced by having the user remove the aggregates in advance using the cleaning member.

[0085] (7) When the display unit 61 specifies a position overlapping with the first nozzle 32 or a position overlapping with the second nozzle 35 as the attachment position, it starts suction of the nozzle specified as the attachment position.

[0086] If aggregates adhere to a position overlapping with the first nozzle 32 or the second nozzle 35, there is a risk of aggregate formation within the nozzle. Therefore, with the above configuration, the viscosity of the aggregates is reduced by expelling the liquid from the nozzle by suction. This makes it easier to remove the aggregates.

[0087] (8) The display unit 61 displays guide information indicating a recovery process to start wiping by the wiping unit 66 when a position downstream of the first nozzle 32 in the wiping direction, or a position downstream of the second nozzle 35 in the wiping direction, is specified as the adhesion position.

[0088] If aggregates adhere downstream of the first nozzle 32 and downstream of the second nozzle 35 in the wiping direction, there is no risk of the aggregates being pushed into the first nozzle 32 and the second nozzle 35 by wiping with the wiping unit 66. Therefore, with the above configuration, aggregates can be removed by wiping the first nozzle surface 33 and the second nozzle surface 36 with the wiping unit 66.

[0089] <Technical philosophy> The technical concepts and their effects that can be understood from the embodiments and modifications described above are described below.

[0090] (A) The liquid dispensing device comprises a dispensing unit including a first dispensing section having a first nozzle surface through which a first nozzle opens, which dispenses a first liquid from the first nozzle into a medium, and a second dispensing section having a second nozzle surface through which a second nozzle opens, which dispenses a second liquid containing a component that causes the first liquid to coagulate into a medium from the second nozzle, a detection unit for detecting contact between the dispensing unit and the medium, and a notification unit for notifying information to confirm the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface when the detection unit detects contact between the dispensing unit and the medium.

[0091] When the discharge unit comes into contact with the medium, aggregates of the first and second liquids may adhere to the first or second nozzle surface. If aggregates adhere to the nozzle surface, the liquid may not be able to be discharged properly from the nozzle. In particular, if the aggregates enter the nozzle, the nozzle may become blocked by the aggregates.

[0092] According to the above configuration, the user checks the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface upon notification from the notification unit. If aggregates are attached to the first nozzle surface or the second nozzle surface, the user removes the aggregates to prevent them from entering the nozzle. Therefore, the risk of problems occurring in liquid discharge due to the attachment of aggregates is reduced.

[0093] (B) In the liquid dispensing device described above, the notification unit may notify information indicating a recovery process corresponding to the location of adhesion of aggregates adhering to the first nozzle surface or the second nozzle surface. According to the above configuration, the user can understand the recovery process corresponding to the location of the aggregate by checking the information. Therefore, the user can perform the appropriate recovery process according to the location of the aggregate.

[0094] (C) The liquid dispensing device includes an imaging unit that images the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface, and the notification unit includes a display unit that displays the image captured by the imaging unit, and the imaging unit may image the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface when the detection unit detects contact between the dispensing unit and the medium. With the above configuration, the user can check the nozzle surface without directly visually inspecting the nozzle surface. The user can check the location of aggregate adhesion by looking at the display unit.

[0095] (D) The liquid dispensing device includes a moving part for moving the dispensing unit, and the moving part may move the dispensing unit to a position where the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface can be visually inspected by the user when the detection unit detects contact between the dispensing unit and the medium. With the above configuration, the user can easily visually inspect the nozzle surface. By visually inspecting the nozzle surface, the user can confirm the location of adhesion of aggregates.

[0096] (E) In the liquid dispensing device described above, the notification unit includes a display unit that displays a confirmation screen for confirming the adhesion location, and the display unit may display information on the confirmation screen indicating the recovery process corresponding to the specified adhesion location. With the above configuration, the user can perform an appropriate recovery process according to the adhesion location of the aggregate by looking at the display unit.

[0097] (F) The liquid dispensing device includes a wiping unit that wipes the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface in a wiping direction, and the display unit may display information indicating the restoration process that causes the user to remove aggregates with a cleaning member when the position upstream of the first nozzle in the wiping direction, or the position upstream of the second nozzle in the wiping direction, is designated as the adhesion position.

[0098] If aggregates adhere to the upstream of the first nozzle and the upstream of the second nozzle in the wiping direction, there is a risk that the wiping action of the wiping unit may push the aggregates into the first or second nozzle. Therefore, with the above configuration, the risk of aggregates entering the nozzles is reduced by having the user remove the aggregates in advance using the cleaning member.

[0099] (G) In the liquid dispensing device described above, the display unit may display information indicating the recovery process to start suction of the nozzle designated as the adhesion position when a position overlapping with the first nozzle or a position overlapping with the second nozzle is designated as the adhesion position.

[0100] If aggregates adhere to a position overlapping with the first nozzle or the second nozzle, there is a risk of aggregate formation within the nozzle. Therefore, with the above configuration, the viscosity of the aggregates is reduced by expelling the liquid from the nozzle by suction. This makes it easier to remove the aggregates.

[0101] (H) The liquid dispensing device includes a wiping unit that wipes the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface in a wiping direction, and the display unit may display information indicating the recovery process in which wiping by the wiping unit is initiated when the position downstream of the first nozzle in the wiping direction, or the position downstream of the second nozzle in the wiping direction, is specified as the adhesion position.

[0102] If aggregates adhere to the downstream of the first nozzle and the downstream of the second nozzle in the wiping direction, there is no risk of the aggregates being pushed into the first and second nozzles by wiping with the wiping unit. Therefore, with the above configuration, aggregates can be removed by wiping the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface with the wiping unit.

[0103] (I) A control method for a liquid dispensing device comprises a dispensing unit including a first dispensing section having a first nozzle surface from which a first nozzle opens, the first dispensing section dispensing liquid from the first nozzle into a medium, and a second dispensing section having a second nozzle surface from which a second nozzle opens, the second dispensing section dispensing a curing liquid containing a component for curing the liquid into the medium from the second nozzle, the control method comprising detecting contact between the dispensing unit and the medium, and notifying information to allow confirmation of the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface when contact between the dispensing unit and the medium is detected. The above method provides the same effects as the liquid dispensing device described above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0104] 11...Liquid dispensing device, 12...Housing, 13...Cover, 14...Conveying unit, 15...Conveying motor, 16...First pulley, 17...Second pulley, 18...Conveying belt, 19...Pressing roller, 20...Roller, 21...Winding unit, 22...Peeling sensor, 23...Cleaning unit, 24...Storage tank, 25...Cleaning brush, 26...Cleaning wiper, 27...Drying unit, 28...Dispensing unit, 29...Holding Part, 31...First discharge section, 32...First nozzle, 33...First nozzle surface, 34...Second discharge section, 35...Second nozzle, 36...Second nozzle surface, 37...Third discharge section, 38...Third nozzle, 39...Third nozzle surface, 40...Moving section, 41...Carriage, 42...First guide shaft, 43...Second guide shaft, 44...Carriage motor, 45...Adjustment mechanism, 46...Main body section, 47...Base section, 48... Supply mechanism, 49...Liquid storage section, 50...Mounting section, 51...Supply channel, 52...Supply pump, 53...Diaphragm pump, 54...Suction valve, 55...Discharge valve, 56...Filter unit, 57...Static mixer, 58...Storage section, 59...Pressure adjustment unit, 60...Notification section, 61...Display section, 62...Control unit, 63...Cap unit, 64...Cap, 65...Suction pump, 66...Wiping section, 67...Detection section, 68...Imaging section, 71...Confirmation screen, 72...Confirmation display, 73...Confirmation image, 74...Recovery display, 75...OK button, 76...End button, 77...Start first processing button, 78...Start second processing button, 79...Start third processing button, 99...Media, A1...First direction, A2...Second direction, P1...Confirmation position, Q1...First position, Q2...Second position, Q3...Third position.

Claims

1. A discharge unit comprising: a first discharge section having a first nozzle surface through which a first nozzle opens, the first discharge section discharging a first liquid from the first nozzle into a medium; and a second discharge section having a second nozzle surface through which a second nozzle opens, the second discharge section discharging a second liquid containing a component that causes the first liquid to coagulate into a medium; A detection unit for detecting contact between the discharge unit and the medium, When the detection unit detects contact between the discharge unit and the medium, the imaging unit captures images of the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface. The system includes a notification unit that, when the detection unit detects contact between the discharge unit and the medium, notifies a message prompting confirmation of the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface. The liquid dispensing apparatus is characterized in that the notification unit includes a display unit that displays the image captured by the imaging unit along with the message when the detection unit detects contact between the dispensing unit and the medium.

2. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the notification unit notifies information indicating a recovery process corresponding to the adhesion position of aggregates adhering to the first nozzle surface or the second nozzle surface.

3. The system includes a moving part for moving the aforementioned discharge unit, The liquid dispensing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the moving unit moves the dispensing unit to a position where the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface can be visually observed by the user when the detection unit detects contact between the dispensing unit and the medium.

4. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 2, characterized in that the display unit displays a confirmation screen for confirming the adhesion position, and the confirmation screen displays information indicating the recovery process corresponding to the specified adhesion position.

5. The device includes a wiping section that wipes the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface in the wiping direction, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 4, characterized in that the display unit displays information indicating the restoration process that causes the user to remove aggregates with a cleaning member when the position upstream of the first nozzle in the wiping direction, or the position upstream of the second nozzle in the wiping direction, is specified as the adhesion position.

6. The liquid dispensing device according to claim 4, characterized in that the display unit displays information indicating the recovery process to start suction of the nozzle designated as the adhesion position when the position overlapping with the first nozzle or the position overlapping with the second nozzle is designated as the adhesion position.

7. The device includes a wiping section that wipes the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface in the wiping direction, The liquid dispensing device according to claim 4, characterized in that the display unit displays information indicating the start of the recovery process by which wiping by the wiping unit is initiated when the position downstream of the first nozzle in the wiping direction, or the position downstream of the second nozzle in the wiping direction, is specified as the adhesion position.

8. A control method for a liquid dispensing device comprising a dispensing unit including a first dispensing unit having a first nozzle surface through which a first nozzle opens, the first dispensing unit dispensing a first liquid from the first nozzle into a medium, and a second dispensing unit having a second nozzle surface through which a second nozzle opens, the second dispensing unit dispensing a second liquid containing a component that causes the first liquid to coagulate into a medium, To detect contact between the discharge unit and the medium, A control method for a liquid dispensing device, characterized in that, when contact between the dispensing unit and the medium is detected, a message prompting confirmation of the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface is displayed, along with images of the first nozzle surface and the second nozzle surface.

Images