JP2005262561A - Liquid jet apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a liquid jet apparatus which minimizes the movement of a wiper blade, and which performs a suction action and a wiping action by selecting a nozzle forming surface requiring cleaning and wiping. <P>SOLUTION: A carriage 3, which reciprocates in a main scanning direction, is equipped with a first liquid jet head H1 and a second jet head H2; the respective heads H1 and H2 are arranged in a state wherein respective nozzle arrays 11a of first and second nozzle forming surfaces N1 and N2 are positioned along a sub-scanning direction; and a first wiper member W1, which performs the wiping action in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the surface N1, and a second wiper member W2, which performs the wiping action in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the surface N2, are arranged in such a manner as to correspond to the vicinity of ends E1 and E2 with a relationship between separated positions, among sub-scanning-direction ends of both the heads H1 and H2, thus enabling the selected surfaces N1 and N2 to be wiped in a short wiping length. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a recording head used for an image recording apparatus such as a printer, a color material ejection head used for manufacturing a color filter such as a liquid crystal display, an electrode used for forming an electrode such as an organic EL display, FED (surface emitting display), etc. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a liquid ejecting head that discharges liquid, such as a material ejecting head and a bioorganic matter ejecting head used for biochip manufacturing, and a liquid ejecting apparatus using the same.

An ink jet recording apparatus is widely used as a liquid ejecting apparatus. In an ink jet recording apparatus, a recording head is provided as a liquid ejecting head for ejecting ink droplets that are liquid from a plurality of nozzle openings. This recording head causes ink droplets to land on the surface of a recording paper or the like, which is a medium, and prints images, characters, and the like. Such an ink jet recording apparatus includes a carriage that is moved relative to the recording paper or the like by a moving unit, and a recording head is mounted on the carriage.
JP-A-3-290259 JP-A-10-258516 JP 2003-1855 A

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the peripheral structure of the ink jet recording apparatus 1. This apparatus includes a carriage 3 on which an ink cartridge 2 is mounted and a recording head 10 is attached.

  The carriage 3 is connected to a stepping motor 5 via a timing belt 4 and is guided by a guide bar 6 to reciprocate in the paper width direction (main scanning direction) of the recording paper 7. The carriage 3 has a box shape that opens to the top, is attached so that the nozzle surface of the recording head 10 is exposed on the surface (the lower surface in this example) facing the recording paper 7, and the ink cartridge 2 is accommodated. It is like that.

Then, ink is supplied from the ink cartridge 2 to the recording head 10 and ink droplets are ejected onto the upper surface of the recording paper 7 while moving the carriage 3 so that images and characters are printed on the recording paper 7 in a dot matrix. Yes. In FIG. 16, reference numeral 8 denotes a suction cap for cleaning the nozzle openings 11 and the ink flow paths in the recording head 10 as well as preventing the nozzles from drying as much as possible by sealing the nozzle openings of the recording head 10 during the suspension of printing. A wiper blade 9 wipes the nozzle surface of the recording head 10. Further, as shown in FIG. 16, a guide bar 6 is inserted through the carriage 3. Further, reference numeral 9a denotes a waste ink storage unit that discharges and stores ink sucked from the recording head 10 through the suction cap 8 by a pump (not shown).

  FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the recording head 10. The flow path unit 13 is joined to the end surface of the head case 15. The flow path unit 13 mainly includes a nozzle plate 16 having a nozzle opening 11 on a nozzle forming surface 16 a, a pressure generation chamber 12 that communicates with the nozzle opening 11 and pressurizes ink by a piezoelectric vibrator 14, and the pressure generation chamber 12. The ink storage chamber 17 stores the ink supplied to the printer. The nozzle openings 11 are arranged in a row (sub-scanning direction) perpendicular to the main scanning direction to form a nozzle row 11a.

  When the recording head 10 is located directly above the suction cap 8, as shown in FIG. 17, the suction cap 8 that advances and retreats in the vertical direction (arrow A1) is in the suction cap 8 in a state of being in close contact with the nozzle forming surface 16a. Ink is sucked from the recording head 10 by applying pressure. Thereafter, when the suction cap 8 is retracted, the recording head 10 is moved in the main scanning direction (arrow line A2), and the nozzle forming surface 16a is wiped by the wiper blade 9 that is raised (arrow line A3) at that time.

  In the above wiping operation, the nozzle rows 11a arranged in the sub-scanning direction are wiped by the wiper blades 9 extending in the direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction (sub-scanning direction). By the way, in the present ink jet recording apparatus, in order to shorten the printing time, the plurality of nozzle rows 11a are shifted in the sub-scanning direction and the nozzle openings 11 of each nozzle row 11a are arranged in a continuous state. The printing range in the printing stroke is expanded.

  As described above, in order to wipe the functionally long nozzle row 11a with the wiper blade 9, it is necessary to increase the length of the wiper blade 9, and when the wiper blade 9 is moved and wiped. With this, a large space is required, and there is a problem that it is difficult to make the apparatus compact. Further, in a type in which a plurality of recording heads 10 are mounted on the carriage 3 and different inks are ejected from each recording head 10, only the recording head 10 from which the ink is ejected when a specific ink cartridge is replaced. May be cleaned and wiped with the wiper blade 9. Cleaning and wiping only the necessary recording head 10 in this way is efficient as an operation of the ink jet recording apparatus. Furthermore, when the wiper blade 9 is lengthened and wiping is performed by scanning the recording head 10 with the carriage 3, wiping of a plurality of recording heads 10 cannot be selected and performed. Further, in order to select the recording head 10 and perform wiping, when the individual wiper blade 9 corresponding to each is provided, it is necessary to individually operate the selected wiper blade, and the mechanism for that is complicated. become.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention minimizes the amount of movement of the wiper blade and performs cleaning and wiping when wiping the nozzle forming surface by moving the wiper blade in the row direction of the nozzle row. Thus, a liquid ejecting apparatus that performs a suction operation or a wiping operation by selecting a necessary nozzle forming surface is obtained.

  In order to achieve the above object, a liquid ejecting apparatus of the present invention includes a carriage that reciprocates in the main scanning direction, a first liquid ejecting head in which a nozzle array is provided on a first nozzle forming surface, and a second nozzle forming surface. A second liquid ejecting head provided with a nozzle array is mounted, and the first liquid ejecting head and the second liquid ejecting head move the nozzle arrays on the first nozzle forming surface and the second nozzle forming surface along the sub-scanning direction. In the sub-scanning direction with respect to the first nozzle forming surface so as to correspond to the vicinity of the end portions of the first and second liquid ejecting heads in the sub-scanning direction that are separated from each other. The gist is that a first wiper member that performs a wiping operation and a second wiper member that performs a wiping operation in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the second nozzle forming surface are arranged.

  A first wiper that performs a wiping operation in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the first nozzle forming surface so as to correspond to the vicinity of the end portions of the first and second liquid ejecting heads in the sub-scanning direction that are separated from each other. Since the member and the second wiper member that performs the wiping operation in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the second nozzle formation surface are arranged, the first wiper member and the second wiper member are respectively the first nozzle formation surface and the second nozzle formation surface. The nozzle forming surface is wiped in the sub-scanning direction, and a structure is formed by a combination of the first nozzle forming surface and the first wiper member and a combination of the second nozzle forming surface and the second wiper member. The structure for wiping is simplified by the first and second combinations as described above.

  Further, the wiping length between the first wiper member and the second wiper member may be set to be substantially the same as or slightly longer than the length of the first nozzle formation surface and the second nozzle formation surface in the sub-scanning direction. Therefore, the operation range of each wiper member can be minimized, and the related mechanism can be made compact. Further, even when a large number of liquid ejecting heads are arranged in the sub-scanning direction, a large-sized apparatus that can wipe all liquid ejecting heads with a wiping length substantially equivalent to one nozzle forming surface and increases the number of liquid ejecting heads. Even so, it can be handled with the minimum necessary wiping mechanism, and is effective in reducing the size of the apparatus and reducing the cost.

  Further, the first wiper member and the second nozzle forming surface with respect to the first nozzle forming surface are disposed at positions corresponding to the end portion of the first liquid ejecting head and the vicinity of the end portion of the second liquid ejecting head that are separated in the sub-scanning direction. Since the second wiper member is disposed, the first nozzle forming surface and the second nozzle forming surface can be sandwiched between the first wiper member and the second wiper member from the outside. Therefore, each wiper member can perform the wiping operation from both directions with respect to the first nozzle forming surface or the second nozzle forming surface existing inside thereof, and minimizes the occupied space required for the wiping operation of each wiper member. The wiping mechanism can be downsized.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, the direction of the wiping operation on the first nozzle formation surface by the first wiper member and the direction of the wiping operation on the second nozzle formation surface by the second wiper member may be opposite to each other in the sub-scanning direction. The first wiper member and the second wiper member face each other in the sub-scanning direction from the end portions of the first and second liquid ejecting heads in the sub-scanning direction that are farthest from each other. Can be wiped off. For this reason, when the first wiper member wipes the first nozzle formation surface, the second wiper member does not wipe the second nozzle formation surface, and when the second wiper member wipes the second nozzle formation surface, Since the first wiper member does not wipe the first nozzle formation surface, only one of the first and second nozzle formation surfaces can be wiped, and only the nozzle formation surface that needs to be wiped is selectively wiped off. Is possible.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, when the wiping operation for the first nozzle formation surface by the first wiper member and the selection means for selecting the wiping operation for the second nozzle formation surface by the second wiper member are provided. Only one of the first and second nozzle forming surfaces can be selected and wiped. Therefore, when the types of liquid ejected from the first and second liquid ejecting heads are different, the wiping operation for the first or second nozzle formation surface can be selected for each type of liquid. Further, for example, when the first nozzle formation surface is cleaned, only the necessary first nozzle formation surface can be selected and wiped, and an efficient maintenance operation without waste is obtained. Furthermore, since the second nozzle forming surface that has not been cleaned is not wiped by the second wiper member by the above selection, the injection conditions such as the meniscus state of the second nozzle forming surface and the intrusion of impurities into the nozzle opening are controlled. There is no crazy phenomenon.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, the first liquid ejecting head and the second liquid ejecting head are arranged so that the nozzle array of the first nozzle forming surface and the nozzle array of the second nozzle forming surface exist on a substantially straight line. In the case where the first and second wiper members for the first and second nozzle forming surfaces are also wiped substantially on a straight line, a linear and simplified wiping operation is obtained. The operation mechanism of the first and second wiper members can be simplified.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, the first liquid ejecting head and the second liquid ejecting head may be offset so that the nozzle array on the first nozzle forming surface and the nozzle array on the second nozzle forming surface are offset in the main scanning direction and the sub scanning direction. In the case where the heads are arranged, the required space in the sub-scanning direction can be reduced by partially overlapping the adjacent first liquid ejecting head and second liquid ejecting head, and the apparatus can be made compact. It is effective for. In addition, since the adjacent nozzle rows are in a state in which the nozzle openings of the nozzle rows are continuous in the sub-scanning direction due to the above-described overlap, the substantial length of the nozzle rows can be increased, The injection range can be increased.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, the first suction cap that caps the first nozzle forming surface to suck the corresponding portion of the first liquid ejecting head at a predetermined position on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body, and the first When a second suction cap that caps to suck the second nozzle formation surface corresponding to the two liquid ejecting heads is disposed, the second suction cap is disposed at a predetermined position on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body. The first and second suction caps can be easily made to correspond to the plurality of suction caps by moving the carriage in the main scanning direction, and the suction operation for each nozzle formation surface can be reliably achieved. .

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, the first wiper member corresponding to the first liquid ejecting head and the second wiper member corresponding to the second liquid ejecting head are disposed at predetermined positions on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body. The first liquid ejecting head and the first suction cap and the first wiper member corresponding to the first liquid ejecting head are configured to form a first unit, and the second liquid ejecting head and the corresponding second suction cap and the second wiper member are included. When the second unit is configured, the first and second liquid ejecting heads, the first and second suction caps for the heads, and the first and second wiper members for the heads are used. Since the first and second units are formed, the suction operation and the wiping operation for each nozzle forming surface are independent in each unit. Also it is made with certainty. Therefore, it is possible to easily operate only the required first or second unit, and to ensure efficient operation as the apparatus.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, the suction caps and the wiper members are attached to an operation base member, and the operation base member includes a capping operation mechanism that closely contacts and separates the suction caps from the nozzle formation surfaces, and the wipers. When the member is connected to a wiping operation mechanism that wipes the member to the corresponding nozzle forming surface, the predetermined relative position between each suction cap and each wiper member can be accurately set on the operation base member. Further, since the operation base member is connected to the capping operation mechanism and the wiping operation mechanism, a predetermined operation of each suction cap and a predetermined operation of each wiper member can be reliably obtained. Further, since the suction cap and the wiper member can be moved together by the operation base member, when the suction cap and the wiper member are individually operated, the suction cap and the wiper member are laid out so as not to interfere with the respective operation areas. In addition, since it is not necessary to retract so that one operation is not hindered by the other operation, the mechanism is simple and a compact design is possible.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, a set of suction caps corresponding to the liquid ejecting heads, in which the nozzle rows are arranged along the sub-scanning direction, at predetermined positions on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body intersect the sub-scanning direction. The first and second wiper members are arranged with respect to the set of suction caps closer to the liquid ejected object among the plurality of sets of suction caps. In this case, a suction operation or a wiping operation is performed on each nozzle formation surface of the first and second liquid ejecting heads on the carriage on the side close to the pair of suction caps where the first and second wiper members are disposed. In this case, the amount of movement of the carriage in the main scanning direction is reduced, which is effective for shortening the time required for operation. When performing a suction operation or a wiping operation on the nozzle formation surfaces of the first and second liquid ejecting heads on the carriage far from the set of suction caps where the first and second wiper members are disposed. The carriage does not move in the main scanning direction beyond the set of suction caps where the first and second wiper members are not disposed, or the length thereof is made as short as possible even if the set of caps is exceeded. Therefore, it is effective for shortening the size of the apparatus in the main scanning direction.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, a first auxiliary unit having the same configuration as the first unit is added to the first unit at a position opposite to the wiping direction of the first wiper member. When the second auxiliary unit having the same configuration as the second unit is added at a position opposite to the wiping direction of the second wiper member, the number of liquid ejecting heads mounted on the carriage increases. The cleaning operation and the wiping operation are surely executed by the added first and second auxiliary units. Even if the number of liquid ejecting heads increases and the size of the carriage increases, the operation length of the wiping operation is about the length of one liquid ejecting head as described above, which is suitable for downsizing the apparatus. It is.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, when the first operation group is configured by a plurality of the first units and the second operation group is configured by the same number of second units as the first unit, A suction operation and a wiping operation can be performed simultaneously on the first nozzle formation surfaces of the plurality of first liquid ejecting heads included in the first operation group, and an efficient maintenance operation of the liquid ejecting apparatus can be performed. At the same time, a similar maintenance operation can be secured for the second operation set.

  In the liquid ejecting apparatus according to the aspect of the invention, the same type of first liquid is ejected from each liquid ejecting head of the first operation group, and a different type of first liquid from each liquid ejecting head of the second operation group. When two liquids are to be ejected, the same kind of liquid can be ejected from the first nozzle formation surfaces of the plurality of first liquid ejecting heads included in the first operation set, so that one kind of liquid can be ejected. The liquid can be ejected from a plurality of first nozzle formation surfaces to a wide area, and the ejection capability of the liquid ejecting apparatus can be improved. The advantages as described above can be ensured for the second operation set as well as the first operation set. In addition, when one of the liquids ejected from the first and second operation groups is consumed, the liquid supply source, for example, the liquid container is replaced for each first or second operation group. It is possible to perform the suction operation and the wiping operation by selecting the replaced nozzle forming surface. For this reason, maintenance management of the liquid ejecting apparatus with selectivity can be performed.

 Next, the best mode for carrying out the liquid ejecting apparatus of the invention will be described.

  1 to 8 show an embodiment of a liquid ejecting apparatus of the invention.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a peripheral structure of an ink jet recording apparatus 1 to which the present invention is applied. This apparatus includes a carriage 3 on which an ink cartridge 2 is mounted and a recording head 10 which is a liquid ejecting head.

  The carriage 3 is connected to a stepping motor 5 via a timing belt 4 and is guided by a guide bar 6 to reciprocate in the paper width direction of the recording paper 7, that is, the main scanning direction. The carriage 3 has a box shape that opens to the top, and is attached so that the nozzle surface of the recording head 10 is exposed on the surface (the lower surface in this example) that faces the recording paper 7 that is the ejection target, and the ink cartridge. 2 is accommodated.

  Then, ink is supplied from the ink cartridge 2 to the recording head 10 and ink droplets are ejected onto the upper surface of the recording paper 7 while moving the carriage 3 so that images and characters are printed on the recording paper 7 in a dot matrix. Yes. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 8 denotes a nozzle for sealing the nozzle opening of the recording head 10 during printing suspension to prevent drying of the nozzle as much as possible, and suction for cleaning a nozzle opening 11 described later and an ink flow path in the recording head 10. A cap 9 is a wiper blade for wiping the nozzle surface of the recording head 10. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a guide bar 6 is inserted into the carriage 3. Further, reference numeral 9a denotes a waste ink storage unit that discharges and stores ink sucked from the recording head 10 through the suction cap 8 by a pump (not shown).

  The suction cap 8 and the wiper blade 9 are attached to an operation base member 31 having a flat plate shape. The wiper blade 9 is configured to perform a wiping operation in the sub-scanning direction perpendicular to the main scanning direction after the suction cap 8 performs the cleaning operation.

  FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the basic structure of the recording head 10. An example of this basic structure will be described with reference to FIG. 2. A flow path unit 13 is disposed at the tip of the recording head 10. The flow path unit 13 includes a nozzle plate 16 having nozzle openings 11 arranged in a row on a nozzle forming surface 16a, a pressure generating chamber 12 that communicates with the nozzle openings 11 and pressurizes ink by a piezoelectric vibrator 14, and the pressure generation The ink storage chamber 17 stores the ink supplied to the chamber 12. The nozzle openings 11 are arranged in a row (sub-scanning direction) perpendicular to the main scanning direction to form a nozzle row 11a.

  That is, the flow path unit 13 includes a nozzle plate 16 having a nozzle forming surface 16a in which the nozzle openings 11 are formed, an ink storage chamber 17 that is a liquid storage chamber common to the pressure generation chamber 12, and ink that communicates these. A pressure generation chamber forming plate 19 in which a space corresponding to the supply path 18 is formed, and a sealing plate that seals the openings of the pressure generation chamber 12 and the ink chamber 17, that is, a vibration plate 20, are laminated. Yes. The nozzle forming surface 16a is a flat surface. As shown in FIG. 2, the flow path unit 13 is joined to the front end surface 27 of the head case 15 using an adhesive.

  The piezoelectric vibrator 14 is a so-called longitudinal vibration mode vibrator that contracts in the longitudinal direction in a charged state upon input of a drive signal and extends in the longitudinal direction in the process of discharging from the charged state. The piezoelectric vibrator 14 is fixed to the base 21 with the other end fixed to the island 20 a of the diaphragm 20 that forms a part of the pressure generating chamber 12. In the present invention, the piezoelectric vibrator 14 in the longitudinal vibration mode may be changed to a piezoelectric vibrator in the flexural vibration mode.

  In the head case 15, a head flow path 24 for introducing the ink of the ink cartridge 2 into the ink storage chamber 17 is formed at a portion corresponding to the ink storage chamber 17. An annular protrusion 23 made of a pipe member is formed at the opening edge of the head channel 24.

  In the recording head 10, the pressure generation chamber 12 expands and contracts in response to the contraction and expansion of the piezoelectric vibrator 14, and ink suction and ink droplet discharge are performed by pressure fluctuations in the pressure generation chamber 12. It has become. In FIG. 2, reference numeral 22 denotes a flexible circuit board that inputs a drive signal to the piezoelectric vibrator 14, and is connected to a control board 25 coupled to the head case 15. A flexible circuit board 29 that supplies an operation signal from a control device 1 a (see FIG. 1) that operates the entire inkjet recording apparatus 1 to the control substrate 25 is connected to the control substrate 25 via a terminal 30.

  In the recording head 10, the piezoelectric vibrator 14, the pressure generation chamber 12, and the nozzle opening 11 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 2, and the nozzle plate 16 has a pair of two nozzle rows, Multiple pairs are formed. The nozzle openings 11 are arranged in a straight line, and such a nozzle array is denoted by reference numeral 11a.

  The flow path unit 13 is joined to the head case 15 using an adhesive or the like. When wiping the nozzle forming surface 16 a with the wiper blade 9, the wiper blade 9 rubs against the corner of the flow path unit 13 and the wiper blade 9 does not operate smoothly, or the corner of the flow path unit 13 is scratched. In order to prevent sticking, a head cover 26 that protects the peripheral portion of the nozzle forming surface 16a is provided.

  Ink sent from the ink cartridge 2 communicating with the annular protrusion 23 flows into the ink storage chamber 17 from the head flow path 24, and is then pressurized by the operation of the piezoelectric vibrator 14 in the pressure generation chamber 12. The ink is ejected in the form of ink droplets from the nozzle opening 11 toward the recording paper 7 so that printing proceeds. In this embodiment, the cartridge 2 is directly connected to the recording head 10 and mounted on the carriage 3. However, the cartridge 2 is set at a predetermined position of the recording apparatus 1, and ink is ejected from the position by a tube. May be supplied to the recording head 10.

  FIG. 3A is a plan view showing a state in which the recording head 10 is moved in the main scanning direction indicated by the arrow A2 together with the carriage 3 and is positioned in the non-printing area, and FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a state in which 10 is located directly above the suction cap 8 and the wiper blade 9. FIG. Two recording heads 10 are attached to the carriage 3, the first nozzle forming surface N1 is disposed on one first recording head H1, and the second nozzle forming surface N2 is disposed on the other second recording head H2. Yes. The first nozzle forming surface N1 and the second nozzle forming surface N2 have the same configuration as the nozzle forming surface 16a, respectively, and the first recording head H1 and the second recording head H2 are respectively the recording head. 10 is the same. Since the nozzle forming surface and the recording head are divided into first and second, N1, N2, H1, H2 and the like are given as symbols for easy understanding.

  The operation base member 31 is configured by a flat plate member. The operation base member 31 includes a first suction cap C1 and a second suction cap C2 corresponding to the first and second nozzle formation surfaces N1, N2, and a first suction cap C2. A first wiper member W1 and a second wiper member W2 that perform a wiping operation on the first and second nozzle formation surfaces N1, N2 are attached. The first and second suction caps C1 and C2 are disposed at predetermined positions on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body 1, but are attached to the motion base member 31 in this example. The operation base member 31 is connected to a capping operation mechanism 32 and a wiping operation mechanism 33 as will be described later.

  The nozzle rows 11a provided on the first nozzle formation surface N1 and the second nozzle formation surface N2 are arranged along the sub-scanning direction. In the example of FIG. 3, the nozzle rows 11a are present on a straight line. ing.

  As shown in FIG. 3B, when the carriage 3 moves in the main scanning direction and stops just above the operation base member 31, the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 form the first and second nozzles, respectively. The positional relationship is such that the surfaces N1 and N2 can be capped. Then, the first and second wiper members W1 and W2 have a positional relationship capable of wiping the first and second nozzle formation surfaces N1 and N2. The first and second wiper members W1 and W2 have a first end portion E1 and a second end portion that are spaced apart from each other in the sub scanning direction of the first and second recording heads H1 and H2. It is arranged in the vicinity of E2. That is, it arrange | positions in the vicinity of the 1st end part E1 and the 2nd end part E2 which become the most separated positional relationship among each said edge part. In other words, in the state of FIG. 3B, the first and second nozzle forming surfaces N1, N2 are sandwiched from the outside between the first wiper member W1 and the second wiper member W2. Yes. Reference numerals P1 and P2 denote a first suction port and a second suction port that are opened at the bottoms of the first and second suction caps C1 and C2, respectively, and are connected to the suction pump P (see FIG. 5). Yes.

  In the example shown in FIG. 3C, black ink (K) is ejected from the two nozzle rows 11a on the first nozzle forming surface N1, and cyan (K) is respectively output from the three nozzle rows 11a on the second nozzle forming surface N2. C), magenta (M), yellow (Y) ink is ejected.

  FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of each part showing the capping operation mechanism 32 and the wiping operation mechanism 33. When the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 cap the first and second nozzle formation surfaces N1 and N2, respectively, the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 rise, and when they do not cap, the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 descend. For this purpose, a capping operation mechanism 32 is provided. A wiping operation mechanism 33 that operates the first and second wiper members W1, W2 with respect to the first and second nozzle formation surfaces N1, N2 after the cleaning operation by the first and second suction caps C1, C2 is completed. Is provided.

  As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C, the capping operation mechanism 32 having an elevating function is supported in a slidable state by elevating guide members 35 on both sides of a plate-like elevating base member 34. . The raising / lowering operation of the raising / lowering base member 34 is performed by the lift of the raising / lowering cam 36 which is contacting the lower surface of the raising / lowering base member 34. As shown in FIG. The elevating cam 36 is fixed to an eccentric shaft 37, and a bearing 38 of the eccentric shaft 37 is fixed to a stationary member 1 c of the apparatus main body 1. The eccentric shaft 37 is rotationally driven by a stepping motor 39 attached to the stationary member 1c. The lift amount of the elevating cam 36 is set according to the rotation drive angle, the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 are raised, and the first and second nozzle forming surfaces N1 and N2 are capped. Then, the second suction caps C1 and C2 are lowered, and the wiping position by the first and second wiper members W1 and W2 is set.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C, the wiping operation mechanism 33 moves the operation base member 31 forward and backward in the sub-scanning direction on the lift base member 34. The advancing / retreating shaft 41 passes through the bearing 40 fixed to the bearing 34 in a slidable state, and the advancing / retreating shaft 41 is coupled to the motion base member 31 via the bracket 42. A stepping motor 43 is fixed to the end of the elevating base member 34, and a part of the timing belt 44 driven thereby is locked to the operation base member 31. When the stepping motor 43 is rotated forward and backward, the operation base member 31 moves back and forth in the sub-scanning direction, and a wiping operation is performed as described later.

  The capping mechanism 32 is formed by a mechanism that combines the lift of the elevating cam 36 and the setting of the rotation angle by the stepping motor 39. Instead, the capping mechanism 32 uses a piston stroke or the like of a fluid cylinder. Also good. Alternatively, the wiping operation mechanism 33 is formed by a mechanism in which a timing belt 44, a stepping motor 43, an advance / retreat shaft 41, and the like are combined. Instead, a rack and pinion mechanism, a piston stroke of a fluid cylinder, or the like is used. It may be formatted.

  FIG. 5 is a system diagram showing a selection means for introducing a negative pressure into one of the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 to perform the cleaning operation. In FIG. 6A, the first valve V1 is arranged in the middle of the conduit from the first suction port P1 of the first suction cap C1 to the suction pump P, and suction is performed from the second suction port P2 of the second suction cap C2. The second valve V2 is arranged in the middle of the pipe line leading to the pump P, and a negative pressure is introduced into one of the suction caps C1 or C2 by opening one of the valves V1 or V2.

  Then, based on the signal obtained when only the first valve V1 is open, the stepping motor 43 is rotated in the forward rotation direction and the rotation angle of the stepping motor 39 is changed to a predetermined angle, and the second valve V2 is connected. The stepping motor 43 is rotated in the reverse direction by a signal obtained when only the motor is open, and the rotation angle of the stepping motor 39 is changed to a predetermined angle. One of the valves V1 or V2 is opened to selectively perform a cleaning operation and a wiping operation. In order to perform such a selection operation, connection is made so that a selection signal from the selection input means 45 is input to each of the valves V1 and V2.

  The selection signal from the selection input means 45 is operated after the capping operation mechanism 32 is operated, and then the first or second suction cap C1, C2 is caused to perform a suction operation, and subsequently sucked. The first or second nozzle formation surface N1, N2 is wiped by the first or second wiper member W1, W2 by operating the wiping operation mechanism 33.

  In FIG. 5B, the suction pump P is connected to the first and second suction caps C1 and C2, respectively, and one of the pumps P is operated to selectively perform the cleaning operation and the wiping operation. The rest of the configuration is the same as (A) above. That is, since one of the first and second nozzle formation surfaces N1 and N2 to be wiped is selected, when the wiping operation is started from the state of FIG. 3B, the first nozzle formation surface N1 Only one of the second nozzle formation surfaces N2 is wiped off. When the first nozzle forming surface N1 is wiped by the first wiper member W1, the first wiper member W1 moves downward in FIG. 3B, and the second nozzle forming surface N2 is moved by the second wiper member W2. When wiped off, the second wiper member W2 moves upward in FIG. Therefore, the direction of the wiping operation of the first and second wiper members W1, W2 is opposed in the sub-scanning direction.

  As described above, the operation base member 31 disposed at a predetermined position on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body 1 in the predetermined position on the stationary member side, that is, in a state through the capping operation mechanism 32 and the wiping operation mechanism 33, A first wiper member W1 corresponding to the recording head H1 and a second wiper member W2 corresponding to the second recording head H2 are arranged. The first recording head H1, the corresponding first suction cap C1 and the first wiper member W1 constitute a first unit U1 (see FIG. 3A), and the second recording head H2 and the corresponding first recording head H2. The second unit U2 (see FIG. 3A) is configured by the second suction cap C2 and the second wiper member W2.

  FIG. 6 is an operation process diagram showing operations by various mechanisms and control systems shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5. FIG. 6A shows that the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 are raised by the raising operation of the cap pinking operation mechanism 32 to seal the first and second nozzle formation surfaces N1 and N2, and in this state A negative pressure is introduced into the first or second suction cap C1, C2 from any one of the first suction port P1 or the second suction port P2, and the first recording head H1 or the second recording head H2 is cleaned. Indicates the state.

  When the cleaning operation in FIG. 6A is completed, the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 are moved in the (a) direction by the lowering operation of the capping operation mechanism 32, and the first and second nozzle formation surfaces N1 and N2 are moved. The first wiper member W1 and the second wiper member W2 move down to the wiping possible position and stop at the position shown in FIG. From this state, as shown in FIG. 5C, the wiping operation mechanism 33 is operated, the operation base member 31 is moved in the (A) direction, and the first wiper member W1 performs the suction operation selectively. Wiping of the first nozzle formation surface N1 is performed.

  As shown in FIG. 4D, the movement in the direction (a) stops at the position where the wiping of the first nozzle forming surface N1 is completed, and the wiping stroke is completed. In this state, as shown in FIG. 5E, the lowering operation of the capping operation mechanism 32 causes the operation base member 31 to move down in the (c) direction so that the first and second wiper members W1, W2 are not wiping positions. Move to. In this state, the operation base member 31 is moved in the direction (d), and the carriage 3 can move to the printing area as shown in FIG.

  In the above operation, the first wiper member W1 wipes the first nozzle forming surface N1, but FIG. 7 shows the second wiper member W2 wiping the second nozzle forming surface N2. It shows the operating state. FIGS. 7A and 7B correspond to FIGS. 6C and 6D, respectively. Thus, the direction of the wiping operation of the first and second wiper members W1, W2 is opposed in the sub-scanning direction.

  FIG. 8 is an operation diagram showing the wiping operation distance of the first wiper member W1 or the second wiper member W2, and only the first recording head H1 side is shown. That is, the entire length b of the first recording head H1 to be wiped, c necessary for the first wiper member W1 to move away from the first recording head H1, and the first wiper member W1 reliably at the start and end of wiping. And the distances a and d taken for the first recording head H1 to separate are the wiping operation distance.

  The effects of the first embodiment of the present invention are listed as follows.

  A wiping operation is performed in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the first nozzle forming surface N1 so as to correspond to the vicinity of the end portions of the first and second recording heads H1 and H2 in the sub-scanning direction that are separated from each other. Since the first wiper member W1 and the second wiper member W2 that performs the wiping operation in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the second nozzle formation surface N2 are arranged, the first wiper member W1 and the second wiper member W2 are respectively The first nozzle formation surface N1 and the second nozzle formation surface N2 are wiped in the sub-scanning direction, the combination of the first nozzle formation surface N1 and the first wiper member W1, the second nozzle formation surface N2 and the second wiper member W2 The structure by combination with is established. The structure for wiping is simplified by the first and second combinations as described above.

  Further, the wiping length of the first wiper member W1 and the second wiper member W2 is substantially the same as or slightly longer than the length of the first nozzle formation surface N1 and the second nozzle formation surface N2 in the sub-scanning direction. Since it can be set, the operating range of each wiper member W1, W2 can be minimized, and the related mechanism can be made compact. Furthermore, even if a large number of recording heads are arranged in the sub-scanning direction, the recording apparatus can be wiped for all the recording heads with a wiping length of about one nozzle forming surface, and the number of recording heads is increased. However, it can be handled with the minimum necessary wiping mechanism, which is effective for downsizing of the apparatus and cost reduction.

  Further, the first wiper member W1 and the second nozzle with respect to the first nozzle formation surface N1 are disposed at positions corresponding to the end of the first recording head H1 and the vicinity of the end of the second recording head H2 that are separated in the sub-scanning direction. Since the second wiper member W2 is disposed with respect to the formation surface N2, the first nozzle formation surface N1 and the second nozzle formation surface N2 are sandwiched between the first wiper member W1 and the second wiper member W2 from the outside. be able to. Therefore, each wiper member W1, W2 can perform wiping operation from both directions with respect to the first nozzle forming surface N1 or the second nozzle forming surface N2 existing inside thereof, and the wiping operation of each wiper member W1, W2 The occupying space required for the wiping mechanism can be minimized and the wiping mechanism can be downsized.

  The direction of the wiping operation on the first nozzle formation surface N1 by the first wiper member W1 and the direction of the wiping operation on the second nozzle formation surface N2 by the second wiper member W2 face each other in the sub-scanning direction. Accordingly, the first wiper member W1 and the second wiper member W2 face each other in the sub-scanning direction from the end portions of the first and second recording heads H1 and H2 that are farthest from each other in the sub-scanning direction. The wiping operation can be performed in the direction. Therefore, when the first wiper member W1 wipes the first nozzle formation surface N1, the second wiper member W2 does not wipe the second nozzle formation surface N2, and the second wiper member W2 does not wipe the second nozzle formation surface N1. When wiping N2, since the first wiper member W1 does not wipe the first nozzle formation surface N1, only one of the first or second nozzle formation surfaces N1 and N2 can be wiped, and wiping is required. Only the nozzle forming surface can be selectively wiped off.

  Since there is provided a selection means for selecting a wiping operation for the first nozzle formation surface N1 by the first wiper member W1 and a wiping operation for the second nozzle formation surface N2 by the second wiper member W2, the first or second is provided. Only one of the nozzle formation surfaces N1, N2 can be selected and wiped. Therefore, when the types of ink ejected from the first and second recording heads H1 and H2 are different, the wiping operation for the first or second nozzle formation surfaces N1 and N2 can be selected for each type of ink. Further, for example, when the first nozzle formation surface N1 is cleaned, only the necessary first nozzle formation surface N1 can be selected and wiped, and an efficient maintenance operation without waste is obtained. Furthermore, since the second nozzle forming surface N2 that has not been cleaned is not wiped by the second wiper member W2 by the above selection, the meniscus state of the second nozzle forming surface N2, the entry of impurities into the nozzle opening 11, and the like Phenomenon that would upset the injection conditions of

  Since the first recording head H1 and the second recording head H2 are arranged so that the nozzle row 11a of the first nozzle formation surface N1 and the nozzle row 11a of the second nozzle formation surface N2 are substantially in a straight line, The first and second wiper members W1, W2 with respect to the nozzle rows 11a on the first and second nozzle formation surfaces N1, N2 also perform wiping operation on a substantially straight line, and a linear and simplified wiping operation is obtained. The operation mechanism of the first and second wiper members W1, W2 can be simplified.

  At a predetermined position on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body 1, a first suction cap C1 that caps to suck the first nozzle formation surface N1 corresponding to the first recording head H1, and the second recording head H2 Correspondingly, a second suction cap C2 that caps the second nozzle forming surface N2 for suction is disposed. As a result, the first and second nozzle forming surfaces N1, N2 are moved to the first and second suction caps C1, C2 arranged at predetermined positions on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body 1 by the movement of the carriage 3 in the main scanning direction. N2 can be easily made to correspond to a plurality of suction caps, and the suction operation with respect to each nozzle forming surface N1, N2 can be reliably achieved.

  A first wiper member W1 corresponding to the first recording head H1 and a second wiper member W2 corresponding to the second recording head H2 are arranged at predetermined positions on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body 1, and the first A first unit U1 is constituted by one recording head H1, a corresponding first suction cap C1 and a first wiper member W1, and the second recording head H2 and a second suction cap C2 and a second wiper member W2 corresponding to the second recording head H2. A second unit U2 is configured. That is, by the first and second recording heads H1 and H2, the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 with respect to them, and the first and second wiper members W1 and W2 with respect to the heads H1 and H2, respectively. Since the first and second units U1 and U2 are formed, the suction operation and the wiping operation for the nozzle forming surfaces N1 and N2 are performed independently and reliably in each unit U1 and U2. Accordingly, different inks can be circulated for each of the first or second units U1 and U2, and either the first or second unit U1 or U2 can be operated for each ink. Therefore, it is possible to easily operate only the necessary first or second unit U1, U2, and to ensure an efficient operation as a device.

  Further, when the types of ink ejected from the first and second units U1 and U2 are different, the wiping operation on the first or second nozzle formation surfaces N1 and N2 of both units U1 and U2 is performed for each type of ink. You can choose. Further, for example, when the first nozzle formation surface N1 of the first unit U1 is cleaned, only the necessary first nozzle formation surface N1 can be selected and wiped off, and an efficient and efficient maintenance operation can be performed. can get. Further, since the second nozzle formation surface N2 of the second unit U2 that has not been cleaned is not wiped by the second wiper member W2 by the above selection, the state of the meniscus of the second nozzle formation surface N2 and the nozzle opening 11 can be reduced. Phenomena that will disturb the injection conditions such as intrusion of impurities will not occur.

  The suction caps C1 and C2 and the wiper members W1 and W2 are attached to the operation base member 31, and the operation base member 31 is capped to closely contact and separate the suction caps C1 and C2 from the nozzle formation surfaces N1 and N2. The operation mechanism 32 is connected to a wiping operation mechanism 33 that wipes the wiper members W1, W2 to the corresponding nozzle forming surfaces N1, N2. Thereby, the predetermined relative positions of the suction caps C1 and C2 and the wiper members W1 and W2 can be accurately set on the operation base member 31. Further, since the operation base member 31 is connected to the capping operation mechanism 32 and the wiping operation mechanism 33, a predetermined operation of each suction cap C1, C2 and a predetermined operation of each wiper member W1, W2 can be reliably obtained. It is done. Further, since the suction caps C1, C2 and the wiper members W1, W2 can be moved integrally by the operation base member 31, when the suction caps C1, C2 and the wiper members W1, W2 are individually operated, the respective operation regions The suction caps C1 and C2 and the wiper members W1 and W2 can be laid out so as not to interfere with each other, and there is no need to retract so that one operation is not hindered by the other operation, so the mechanism is simple and compact. It becomes possible.

  9 to 11 show a second embodiment of the liquid ejecting apparatus of the invention.

In this embodiment, a set of first and second recording heads H1 and H2 in which nozzle rows 11a are arranged along the sub-scanning direction, and first and second suction caps corresponding to these recording heads H1 and H2 are used. Four sets of C1 and C2 are arranged. On the carriage 3, four sets of first and second recording heads H1 and H2 are arranged in a direction crossing the sub-scanning direction. These sets are arranged in a staggered manner. Also,
On the operation base member 31, four sets of first and second suction caps C1 and C2 are arranged in a direction crossing the sub-scanning direction. These sets are arranged in a staggered manner. Of the four sets of the first and second suction caps C1 and C2, the first and second wiper members with respect to the two sets of the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 on the side closer to the recording paper 7 are used. W1 and W2 are arranged.

  In other words, the first and second recording heads H1 and H2 shown in FIG. 3A are mounted on the four carriages 3, and the first and second wiper members W1 and W2 are provided. Two sets of suction caps C1 and C2 are arranged on the side of the recording paper 7 of the operation base member 31, and two sets of first and second suction caps C1 and C2 that are not provided with a wiper member are operated on the side far from the recording paper 7. It is disposed on the base member 31.

  FIG. 9B is a system diagram shown in the same manner as FIG. 5A, and is different from that in FIG. 5A in that the number of suction caps is four. Although not shown, a control system similar to that shown in FIG. 5B can be employed in this embodiment.

  As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, a plurality of the first units U1, that is, two in the present embodiment are arranged to form the first operation set AC1. In addition, a plurality of the second units U2, that is, two in this embodiment are arranged to form a second operation set AC2.

  FIG. 9A shows a state immediately before the carriage 3 reaches the motion base member 31. FIG. 10 shows a state in which the four first and second recording heads H1 and H2 are aligned with the four first and second suction caps C1 and C2 provided with the first and second wiper members W1 and W2. Is shown. That is, four of the eight recording heads and four of the suction caps match each other. In this state, the capping operation mechanism 32 and the wiping operation mechanism 33 function to perform a cleaning operation and a wiping operation.

  FIG. 10 shows a state in which the four first and second recording heads H1 and H2 on the right side on the carriage 3 are sucked and wiped as described above, but FIG. In this state, the first and second recording heads H1 and H2 are sucked and wiped. Other than that, it is the same as that of the said Example, and attaches | subjects the same code | symbol to the same part.

  According to the above configuration, each nozzle of the first and second recording heads H1 and H2 on the carriage 3 on the side close to the set of the suction caps C1 and C2 where the first and second wiper members W1 and W2 are disposed. When performing a suction operation or a wiping operation on the formation surfaces N1 and N2, when cleaning is performed from a position where the carriage 3 is on the printing area side during printing, the amount of movement of the carriage 3 in the main scanning direction is reduced and the operation is performed. It is effective for shortening the required time. Further, the nozzle forming surfaces N1, of the first and second recording heads H1, H2 on the carriage 3 on the side far from the set of suction caps C1, C2 on which the first and second wiper members W1, W2 are arranged. When performing a suction operation or a wiping operation on N2, the carriage 3 does not move in the main scanning direction beyond the pair of suction caps C1, C2 where the first and second wiper members W1, W2 are not disposed. As a result, the length of the caps C1 and C2 can be shortened as much as possible even if it exceeds the set of caps C1 and C2.

As described above, one of the first and second units U1 and U2 is selected and a suction operation or a wiping operation is given. In addition, the first operation group AC1 formed by the plurality of first units U1 and the second operation group AC2 formed by the plurality of second units U2 are selected as a set, and suction and wiping are performed. . Since the suction operation and the wiping operation are selectively performed in units of operation groups in this way, even if a large number of recording heads are mounted on the carriage in order to improve the performance of the ink ejecting apparatus, the necessary operation group is selected. Ink suction and ink wiping on the nozzle forming surface can be performed, which is effective in improving the operation efficiency of the apparatus body 1. Other than that, there exists an effect similar to the said Example.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9C, the suction pump P is also connected to the four suction caps C1 and C2 that are not provided with the wiper members W1 and W2, and a plurality of first and second recording heads H1 and H1 are provided. When performing the cleaning operation on any one of H2, the carriage 3 is moved to the position shown in FIG. 11 and any one of the first and second valves V1 to V4 is opened by opening any one of the first valve V1 to the fourth valve V4. Negative pressure is introduced into the suction caps C1 and C2 corresponding to the recording heads H1 and H2. The wiping operation can be configured to execute the wiping operation by moving the carriage 3 to the position shown in FIG. 10 or FIG. 11 as described above with respect to the recording head on which the suction operation has been performed.

  According to the above configuration, since the recording head that does not perform cleaning is sealed with the suction cap even while the cleaning operation is being performed, evaporation of ink near the nozzle portion of the recording head during the operation is prevented, The injection conditions near the nozzle can be maintained in a normal state.

  FIG. 12 shows a third embodiment of the liquid ejecting apparatus of the invention.

  In this embodiment, two rows of the first and second suction caps C1 and C2 including the first and second wiper members W1 and W2 are arranged. The wiper member is disposed between the two rows. A row of first and second suction caps C1, C2 that are not provided is arranged. The first and second wiper members W <b> 1 and W <b> 2 are arranged with respect to the set of suction caps near the recording paper 7. FIG. 12B is a system diagram shown in the same manner as FIG. Although not shown, a control system similar to that shown in FIG. 5B can be employed in this embodiment. Other than that, it is the same as that of each said Example, and attaches | subjects the same code | symbol to the same part.

  When the carriage 3 moves in the main scanning direction from the state shown in the figure and all the first and second recording heads H1 and H2 match all the first and second suction caps C1 and C2, the first and second wipers are obtained. The four first and second suction caps C1 and C2 provided with the members W1 and W2 perform a suction operation, followed by a wiping operation. After that, when performing the suction operation and the wiping operation on the remaining recording heads, after moving the operation base member 31 in the sub-scanning direction and further moving in the main scanning direction, Suction and wipe. Therefore, in this example, it is necessary to move the operation base member 31 also in the sub-scanning direction in order to match the suction cap and the recording head. Other than that, there exists an effect similar to each said Example.

  FIG. 13 shows a fourth embodiment of the liquid ejecting apparatus of the invention.

  In this embodiment, the first recording head H1 and the second recording are performed so that the nozzle row 11a of the first nozzle formation surface N1 and the nozzle row 11a of the second nozzle formation surface N2 are offset in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. The head H2 is disposed. FIG. 13B is a system diagram shown in the same manner as FIG. Although not shown, a control system similar to that shown in FIG. 5B can be employed in this embodiment. Other than that, it is the same as that of each said Example, and attaches | subjects the same code | symbol to the same part.

  According to the above configuration, the first recording head H1 and the second recording head H2 adjacent to each other are partially overlapped, so that the required space in the sub-scanning direction can be reduced, which is effective for making the apparatus compact. . Further, since the adjacent nozzle rows 11a are in a state in which the nozzle openings 11 of the nozzle rows 11a are continuous in the sub-scanning direction due to the above overlap, the substantial length of the nozzle rows 11a can be increased. The printing range for the recording paper 7 can be increased. Other than that, there exists an effect similar to each said Example.

  FIG. 14 shows a fifth embodiment of the liquid ejecting apparatus of the invention.

  In this embodiment, the operating base member 31 is separated into a vertically moving base member 31a and an advancing / retreating base member 31b. The vertical movement base member 31 a is connected to the capping operation mechanism 32. The advance / retreat base member 31 b is connected to the wiping operation mechanism 33. The first and second suction caps C1 and C2 are attached on the vertically moving base member 31a, and the first and second wiper members W1 and W2 are attached on the advance / retreat base member 31b. Other than that, it is the same as that of each said Example, and attaches | subjects the same code | symbol to the same part.

  According to the above configuration, the vertical movement base member 31a may be a mechanism that only operates in the vertical direction, and thus the structure can be simplified. Further, since the advance / retreat base member 31b may be a mechanism that only moves in the advance / retreat direction, the structure can be simplified. Other than that, there exists an effect similar to each said Example.

  FIG. 15 shows a sixth embodiment of the liquid ejecting apparatus of the invention.

  In this embodiment, a first auxiliary unit AU1 having the same configuration as that of the first unit U1 is added to the first unit U1 at a position opposite to the wiping direction of the first wiper member W1, and the second unit U2 is added to the first unit U1. A second auxiliary unit AU2 having the same configuration as that of the second unit U2 is added at a position opposite to the wiping direction of the second wiper member W2. FIG. 15B is a system diagram shown in the same manner as FIG. Although not shown, a control system similar to that shown in FIG. 5B can be employed in this embodiment. Other than that, it is the same as that of each said Example, and attaches | subjects the same code | symbol to the same part.

  As described above, one of the first and second units U1 and U2 is selected and a suction operation or a wiping operation is given. In addition, since the first auxiliary unit AU1 is added to the first unit U1 and the second auxiliary unit AU2 is added to the second unit U2, the number of recording heads mounted on the carriage 3 is increased. Even if it increases, the added first and second auxiliary units AU1 and AU2 reliably perform the cleaning operation and the wiping operation. Even if the number of liquid ejecting heads increases and the size of the carriage increases, the operation length of the wiping operation is about the length of one liquid ejecting head as described above, which is suitable for downsizing the apparatus. It is.

  Further, a plurality of first auxiliary units AU1 are combined with the first operation group AC1, and a plurality of second auxiliary units AU2 are combined with the second operation group AC2. Can be increased to increase the printing range.

  Since the first and second units U1 and U2 and the first and second auxiliary units AU1 and AU2 that are paired with the first and second units U1 and U2 can be selected as a set, the suction operation and the wiping operation can be performed. Even with a large number of large-scale apparatus main bodies 1, it is possible to obtain a highly efficient apparatus by accurately selecting the necessary recording heads. In addition, a group in which a plurality of first auxiliary units AU1 are combined with the first operation set AC1 and a group in which a plurality of second auxiliary units AU2 are combined with the second operation set AC2 are selected as a set. Thus, the suction operation and the wiping operation can be performed, and it is possible to accurately cope with the large scale of the apparatus as described above. Further, even if the number of recording heads is increased and the scale of the carriage 3 is increased, the substantial operation length of the wiping operation is about the length of one recording head as described above. It is suitable for.

  Each of the above embodiments is directed to an ink jet recording apparatus. However, the liquid ejecting apparatus obtained by the present invention is not only intended for ink for an ink jet recording apparatus, but a glue, a nail polish, Conductive liquid (liquid metal) or the like can be ejected. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments, the ink jet recording head using ink that is one of the liquids has been described. However, the colors used for the manufacture of color filters such as recording heads and liquid crystal displays used in image recording apparatuses such as printers. Applied to all liquid ejecting heads for ejecting liquids, such as material ejecting heads, organic EL displays, electrode material ejecting heads used for electrode formation such as FED (surface emitting display), bio-organic ejecting heads used in biochip manufacturing, etc. Is also possible.

It is a schematic structure figure showing an example of the whole structure of an ink jet recording device. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the entire recording head. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a positional relationship between a recording head, a wiper member, and a suction cap. It is each part sectional drawing of the structure part shown in FIG. It is a systematic diagram which shows a selection means. It is an operation process figure of suction operation and wiping operation. FIG. 7 is an operation process diagram in the opposite direction to the case of FIG. 6. It is an operation | movement figure which shows the length of wiping operation | movement. It is a system diagram which shows the top view and selection means of a 2nd Example. It is a top view which shows the action | operation of a 2nd Example. It is a top view which shows the action | operation of a 2nd Example. It is a system diagram which shows the top view and selection means of a 3rd Example. It is a system diagram which shows the top view and selection means of a 4th Example. It is a top view of the 5th example. It is a system diagram which shows the top view and selection means of a 6th Example. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the prior art example of the whole structure of an inkjet recording device. It is sectional drawing which shows the conventional recording head, a suction cap, a wiper member, etc.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Inkjet recording device, 1a Control apparatus, 1c Static member, 1d Case wall, 2 Ink cartridge, 3 Carriage, 4 Timing belt, 5 Stepping motor, 6 Guide bar, 7 Recording paper, 8 Suction cap, 9 Wiper blade, 9a Waste ink storage unit, 10 recording head, 11 nozzle opening, 11a nozzle row, 12 pressure generation chamber, 13 flow path unit, 14 piezoelectric vibrator, 15 head case, 16 nozzle plate, 16a nozzle formation surface, 17 ink storage chamber, 18 ink supply path, 19 pressure generating chamber forming plate, 20 vibration plate, 20a island, 21 base, 22 flexible circuit board, 23 annular protrusion, 24 head flow path, 25 control board, 26 head cover, 27 tip surface, 29 Flexible circuit board, 30 terminals, 31 Operation base member, 31a Vertical movement base member, 31b Advance / retreat base member, 32 Capping operation mechanism, 33 Wiping operation mechanism, 34 Lifting base member, 35 Lifting guide member, 36 Lifting cam, 37 Eccentric shaft, 38 Bearing, 39 Stepping motor, 40 bearing, 41 advance / retreat shaft, 42 bracket, 43 stepping motor, 44 timing belt, 45 selection input means, H1 first recording head, H2 second recording head, N1 first nozzle forming surface, N2 second nozzle forming surface, E1 First end portion, E2 second end portion, C1 first suction cap, C2 second suction cap, V1 first valve, V2 second valve, V3 third valve, V4 fourth valve, W1 first wiper member, W2 Second wiper member, P1 first suction port, P2 second suction port, U1 first unit, U2 second unit, C1 first operating group, AC2 second operation group, AU1 first auxiliary unit, AU2 second auxiliary unit

Claims (12)

A carriage that reciprocates in the main scanning direction is mounted with a first liquid ejecting head having a nozzle row on the first nozzle forming surface and a second liquid ejecting head having a nozzle row on the second nozzle forming surface,
The first liquid ejecting head and the second liquid ejecting head are arranged in a state where the nozzle rows of the first nozzle forming surface and the second nozzle forming surface are aligned in the sub-scanning direction,
A first wiper that performs a wiping operation in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the first nozzle forming surface so as to correspond to the vicinity of the end portions of the first and second liquid ejecting heads in the sub-scanning direction that are separated from each other. A liquid ejecting apparatus comprising: a member; and a second wiper member that performs a wiping operation in a sub-scanning direction with respect to a second nozzle formation surface.   2. The liquid ejection according to claim 1, wherein the direction of the wiping operation with respect to the first nozzle formation surface by the first wiper member and the direction of the wiping operation with respect to the second nozzle formation surface by the second wiper member are opposed in the sub-scanning direction. apparatus.   3. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a selection unit that selects a wiping operation for the first nozzle formation surface by the first wiper member and a wiping operation for the second nozzle formation surface by the second wiper member.   The first liquid ejecting head and the second liquid ejecting head are arranged such that the nozzle array of the first nozzle forming surface and the nozzle array of the second nozzle forming surface are substantially in a straight line. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to any one of the above.   The first liquid ejecting head and the second liquid ejecting head are disposed so that the nozzle array on the first nozzle forming surface and the nozzle array on the second nozzle forming surface are offset in the main scanning direction and the sub scanning direction. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to any one of 1 to 3.   A first suction cap that caps to suck the first nozzle formation surface corresponding to the first liquid ejecting head, and a second liquid ejecting head corresponding to the first liquid ejecting head at predetermined positions on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a second suction cap that caps the second nozzle forming surface for suction is disposed.   A first wiper member corresponding to the first liquid ejecting head and a second wiper member corresponding to the second liquid ejecting head are disposed at a predetermined position on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body, and the first liquid ejecting head is disposed. The head, the first suction cap and the first wiper member corresponding to the head constitute a first unit, and the second liquid ejecting head and the corresponding second suction cap and the second wiper member constitute a second unit. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 6.   Each suction cap and each wiper member are attached to an operation base member, and the operation base member includes a capping operation mechanism for closely contacting and separating each suction cap from each nozzle formation surface, and each wiper member on a corresponding nozzle formation surface. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the liquid ejecting apparatus is connected to a wiping operation mechanism for wiping.   Arranged so that a plurality of sets of suction caps corresponding to each liquid ejecting head in which nozzle rows are arranged along the sub-scanning direction are arranged in a predetermined direction on the stationary member side of the apparatus main body in a direction crossing the sub-scanning direction The first and second wiper members are arranged with respect to a set of suction caps closer to the liquid ejection target among the plurality of sets of suction caps. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to one item.   A first auxiliary unit having the same configuration as the first unit is added to the first unit at a position opposite to the wiping direction of the first wiper member, and the wiping direction of the second wiper member is added to the second unit. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein a second auxiliary unit having the same configuration as the second unit is added to a portion on the opposite side of the first unit.   The first operation group is configured by a plurality of the first units, and the second operation group is configured by the same number of second units as the first unit. Liquid ejector.   The same type of first liquid is ejected from each liquid ejecting head of the first operation group, and the second liquid of a different type from the first liquid is ejected from each liquid ejecting head of the second operation group. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 11.

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