JP2008230009A - Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

When a liquid that hardens quickly is used, the liquid ejected to a range exceeding the range of the medium may be cured, thereby deteriorating the functions of members and equipment of the ejection device.
A first liquid nozzle row comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting a first liquid and a plurality of liquid jets for ejecting a second liquid containing a liquid curing inhibitor that inhibits the first liquid from curing. A liquid ejecting head and a liquid ejecting apparatus comprising a head having a second liquid nozzle array including the nozzles of the nozzles are provided.
[Selection] Figure 9

Description

  The present invention relates to a liquid ejecting head and a liquid ejecting apparatus.

  In an inkjet printer, by using a liquid that quickly cures when the liquid is ejected from a plurality of nozzles formed on the head, the ink can be transferred to the medium without being influenced by the physical properties of the medium such as the permeability of the liquid. Stable quality is maintained in the injection results. For example, Patent Document 1 proposes an ink jet printer including an irradiation device using ultraviolet light as a light source.

JP 2004-237603 A

  In an ink jet printer, liquid may be ejected from nozzles formed on the head to a part beyond the range of the medium. For example, for the purpose of preventing clogging of the nozzle, the liquid is ejected from the nozzle in a range exceeding the range of the medium. When waiting until the liquid is ejected, the liquid is not ejected from the nozzle. Further, even when the liquid is ejected from the head, there is a nozzle from which the liquid is not ejected depending on ejection data for selecting a nozzle to be ejected. If the liquid is not ejected, the liquid in the nozzle may harden and the nozzle may become clogged. Therefore, an area for ejecting the liquid from the nozzle is provided in a portion beyond the range of the medium, and the liquid is ejected from the nozzle to the area. Alternatively, the head is covered with a cap, and a negative pressure is generated in the space covered with the cap to suck liquid from the nozzle so that the nozzle is not clogged.

  Further, for example, there is a case where the liquid is ejected from the nozzle to the end of the medium. In such a case, depending on the positional accuracy and feeding accuracy when the medium is transported, the liquid may be ejected from the nozzle beyond the end of the medium. Alternatively, the liquid may be ejected in a range beyond the edge of the medium depending on the ejection accuracy when the liquid is ejected from the nozzle.

  However, when a liquid that quickly cures is used, the liquid ejected to a range exceeding the range of the medium may be cured, and the functions of members and equipment of the liquid ejecting apparatus may be degraded. For example, the inside of a liquid absorbing member such as a sponge for absorbing the injected liquid may be hardened, or the surface of the absorbing member may be covered with the hardened liquid, so that the liquid absorbing ability may be reduced. Or the liquid which hardened | cured adheres to the part of the cap contact | abutted to a head, and the capability of attracting | sucking a liquid from a nozzle may fall by the adhesiveness of a head and a cap falling. Also, the liquid sucked while covering the cap may harden, and the discharge port provided at the bottom of the cap may become clogged, or the inside of the pump that generates negative pressure in the space when the head is covered with the cap may be clogged. is there.

  Therefore, in order to solve the above-described problems, an object of the present invention is to suppress the liquid ejected beyond the range of the medium from being cured.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a first liquid nozzle row composed of a plurality of nozzles for ejecting the first liquid, and a liquid curing inhibitor that inhibits the first liquid from curing. It becomes clear that the liquid ejecting head includes a second liquid nozzle row including a plurality of nozzles ejecting the second liquid.

  According to such a liquid ejecting head, since the first liquid and the second liquid containing the liquid curing inhibitor that suppresses the curing of the first liquid are mixed, the liquid is ejected beyond the range of the medium. It can suppress that the made 1st liquid hardens | cures.

  In this liquid ejecting head, it is preferable that the length of the second liquid nozzle row in the row direction is longer than the length of the first liquid nozzle row in the row direction.

  According to such a liquid ejecting head, the liquid curing inhibitor can be ejected in a range ejected from the nozzles of the first liquid nozzle row. Therefore, since the first liquid and the liquid curing inhibitor can be mixed, it is possible to suppress the jetted first liquid from being cured.

  In this liquid ejecting head, the first liquid nozzle row and the second liquid nozzle row are arranged substantially in parallel, and the second liquid nozzle row is disposed on both sides of the first liquid nozzle row. It is desirable.

  According to such a liquid ejecting head, it is possible to eject the second liquid by selecting the second liquid nozzle array on one side from the second liquid nozzle arrays arranged on both sides. Therefore, in the relative reciprocal movement of the medium and the head, the second liquid nozzle row ejects the second liquid after ejecting the first liquid from the first nozzle row regardless of the movement direction. Can be selected. That is, after the first liquid is ejected from the nozzles of the first liquid nozzle row, the second liquid containing the liquid that hardens the first liquid is quickly ejected from the nozzles of the second liquid nozzle row and mixed. Since it can do, it can suppress that the 1st liquid hardens | cures.

  In such a liquid jet head, the nozzle pitch of the second liquid nozzle row arranged on both sides is larger than the nozzle pitch of the first liquid nozzle row, and in the row direction of the second liquid nozzle row, It is desirable to shift the position of the nozzle of one second liquid nozzle row from the position of the nozzle of the other second liquid nozzle row.

  According to such a liquid ejecting head, an increase in manufacturing cost of the head having the nozzles of the second liquid nozzle row can be suppressed.

  In the liquid ejecting head, of the second liquid nozzle rows arranged on both sides, the diameter of the nozzle of one second liquid nozzle row and the diameter of the nozzle of the other second liquid nozzle row are It is desirable to be different.

  According to such a liquid ejecting head, since the second liquid nozzle row can be selected and ejected from the second liquid nozzle rows on both sides, the amount of liquid to be ejected can be changed.

  In the liquid ejecting head, it is preferable that the first liquid is an ultraviolet curable liquid. According to such a liquid ejecting head, since the ultraviolet curable liquid and the second liquid containing the liquid curing inhibitor that suppresses the curing of the first liquid are mixed, the liquid ejecting head ejects beyond the range of the medium. Curing of the ultraviolet curable liquid that has been performed can be suppressed.

  In such a liquid jet head, the liquid curing inhibitor is preferably a polymerization inhibitor that suppresses a liquid polymerization reaction. According to such a liquid ejecting head, since the first liquid and the second liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor that suppresses the curing of the first liquid are mixed, the liquid is ejected beyond the range of the medium. Curing of the first liquid can be suppressed.

  It is desirable that the liquid ejecting apparatus includes the liquid ejecting head, a first cap that covers the first liquid nozzle row, and a second cap that covers the second liquid nozzle row.

  According to such a liquid ejecting apparatus, the first liquid covering the first liquid nozzle row can suppress the first liquid from flowing to the nozzles of the second nozzle row. Therefore, it is possible to suppress clogging of the nozzles of the second liquid nozzle row by the hardened first liquid.

  In this liquid ejecting apparatus, the length in the row direction of the second liquid nozzle row is the length of both ends in the row direction of the second liquid nozzle row on the surface where the first cap contacts the head. Longer than this is desirable.

  According to such a liquid ejecting apparatus, it is possible to eject the second liquid to the portion that contacts the head of the first cap. Then, the first liquid sprayed to the contact portion that contacts the head of the first cap and the second liquid containing the liquid inhibitor that suppresses the curing of the first liquid are mixed. Curing at the contact portion of one cap can be suppressed. Therefore, it can be suppressed that the first liquid sprayed to the contact portion of the first cap is cured and the adhesion between the cap and the head is lowered.

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic external perspective view of a printer 1 as a liquid ejecting apparatus as seen from the front obliquely. The carriage motor 11 drives the timing belt 4. The carriage 15 is fixed to the timing belt 4 and reciprocates in the horizontal direction of the drawing along the guide shaft 3 fixed to the frame 2. An ink cartridge (monochrome) 7 and an ink cartridge (color) 8 are mounted on the carriage 15. The ink cartridge (monochrome) 7 and the ink cartridge (color) 8 are filled with ultraviolet curable ink that cures the viscosity of the ink when irradiated with ultraviolet rays as the first liquid. The ink cartridge (monochrome) 7 is filled with monochrome ink. The ink cartridge (color) 8 is divided by a partition plate and filled with yellow, magenta, and cyan color inks.

  The paper S as a medium is conveyed on the platen 14 by a paper feed motor 12 and a paper feed mechanism (not shown). A head (not shown) having a plurality of nozzles (not shown) is fixed to the lower portion of the carriage 15. Monochrome ink or color ink can be ejected by driving a piezoelectric element (not shown) provided in the head by a control signal from a circuit board (not shown) via the flexible cable 5. An image can be formed on the paper S by repeating the transport of the paper S and the reciprocating movement of the carriage 15 and ejecting ink from nozzles formed on the head.

  On both sides of the carriage 15, ultraviolet light sources such as mercury lamps are mounted and ultraviolet irradiation devices 6 and 10 for irradiating ultraviolet rays are fixed. By irradiating the ultraviolet curable ink ejected from the head with ultraviolet rays, the ink can be quickly cured on the paper S.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating nozzle rows formed on the ejection surface of the head 20a. In the head 20a, nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL are formed that include a plurality of nozzles that eject yellow, magenta, cyan, and black inks. The nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL are formed in a row direction perpendicular to the carriage movement direction.

  Hereinafter, some cases where the liquid is ejected from the nozzle beyond the range of the medium will be described.

  First, flushing in which liquid is ejected from a nozzle beyond the range of the medium will be described. On the right side of FIG. 1, there is provided a flushing area 16 in which a concave groove for performing flushing is formed. The flushing is performed for the purpose of preventing clogging of the nozzles, and is an operation of ejecting ink from the nozzles to the flushing area 16 outside the range of the medium without being ejected onto the medium. The carriage 15 is moved along the guide shaft 3, and flushing is performed by ejecting liquid from the nozzle at a position where the head 20 a faces the flushing area 16. The flushing area 16 is provided with a liquid absorbing member (not shown) such as a sponge. The ink ejected to the flushing area 16 is absorbed by the liquid absorbing member.

  Further, for the purpose of preventing nozzle clogging, a cap 13 for cleaning is provided on the right side of the flushing area 16 in the drawing. In the cleaning, the head is covered with a cap and sealed, a negative pressure is generated in the space covered with the cap, and ink is sucked from the nozzle. FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of the cap 13 in the present embodiment. The cap 13 includes a sealing wall 131 made of an elastic member such as rubber and a sealing wall fixing plate 133 that fixes the sealing wall 131. A discharge port 132 is formed in the sealing wall fixing plate 133 constituting the bottom surface of the cap 13.

  Next, cleaning in which liquid is ejected from the nozzle beyond the range of the medium will be described. A range surrounded by a broken line shown in FIG. 2A is a portion where the surface of the sealing wall 131 opposite to the surface fixed to the sealing wall fixing plate 133 contacts the head 20a. The length indicated by L1 in FIG. 3 indicates the length of both ends of the surface opposite to the surface fixed to the sealing wall fixing plate 133 of the sealing wall 131 in the direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the carriage. The length indicated by L1 in FIG. 2 indicates the length of both ends where the surfaces of the sealing wall 131 abut in the nozzle row direction when the cap 13 abuts against the head 20a so as to cover the head 20a.

  Here, a method of bringing the cap 13 into contact with the head 20a will be described. FIG. 4 is a view illustrating the cap lifting / lowering unit 50 at a position where the cap 13 is lowered. FIG. 4 is a view of the printer 1 as viewed from the front. A cap elevating unit 50 is provided below the cap 13 to raise the cap 13 toward the head 20a so as to contact the head 20a or to lower the cap 13 so that the cap 13 is separated from the head 20a. The cap 13 is fixed to the slide member 55. The slide member 55 can be swung by the link member 56, the spring member 57, and the support pin 52 that are supported by the bracket 54. The support pin 52 is positioned below the guide groove 53 until the carriage 15 moves from the front left side of the printer 1 in FIG. 1 to the right side and the protrusion 151 provided on the carriage 15 contacts the engaging portion 51. . At this time, as shown in FIG. 4, the cap 13 is in a position where it does not hit the head 20a.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the cap lifting / lowering unit 50 at a position where the cap 13 is raised. FIG. 5 is a view of the printer 1 as viewed from the front. When the carriage 15 tries to move further to the right side of the drawing of FIG. 1 from the position where the protrusion 151 provided on the carriage 15 comes into contact with the engaging portion 51, the position of the support pin 52 becomes higher as the movement occurs. It slides along the formed guide groove 53. Then, the link member 56 rotates, and the spring member 57 extends to the head 20 side. Then, the cap 13 rises to a position where it comes into contact with the head 20a, and the sealing wall 131 of the cap 13 comes into close contact with the head 20a. Thus, the head 20a is sealed so that the cap 13 covers all the nozzle rows.

  Using a pump (not shown) provided at the lower part of the cap 13 in FIG. 1, liquid is discharged from the nozzle to the bottom surface of the cap 13 by sucking the sealed space by bringing the cap 13 into contact with the head 20a. Let When the cleaning for sucking the liquid from the nozzles is completed while covering the head 20a with the cap 13, the carriage 15 is moved along the guide shaft 3 to the left side of the drawing. Then, the support pin 52 slides along the guide groove 53 by the pulling force of the spring member 57 and is positioned at the lower stage of the guide groove 53. At this time, the cap 13 is lowered to the position shown in FIG.

  Next, borderless printing in which liquid is ejected from the nozzle beyond the range of the medium will be described. In borderless printing, ink is ejected to a range wider than the range of the medium, and the ink is ejected to the upper end, lower end, and both ends of the medium. When performing borderless printing, the position facing the head 20a differs depending on the paper feeding accuracy in paper conveyance and the positional accuracy such as the inclination of the paper S. Therefore, the ink is ejected in a range larger than the range of the paper S so that the portions where the ink is not ejected are not generated at the upper end portion, the lower end portion, and both end portions of the paper S.

  FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating a state in which ink is ejected to the upper end portion of the paper S (medium). The figure is a view seen from the right side surface of the printer 1. A concave groove 141 is formed in the platen 14 so as to be long in the carriage movement direction (vertical direction in the drawing). The groove portion 141 is provided with a liquid absorbing member 142 such as a sponge that absorbs ink.

  The head 20a provided at the lower part of the carriage 15 reciprocates in the vertical direction of the drawing. The paper S is conveyed from the right side of the drawing along the surface on the head 20a side of the platen 14 from the right side of the drawing to the left side of the drawing. When the upper end portion of the paper S is transported to a position facing the groove 141, ink is ejected only from the nozzles facing the groove portion 141 among the nozzles of the nozzle row formed in the head 20a. As described above, in borderless printing, the ink is ejected in a range larger than the range of the paper S, so that the ink is ejected from the upper end portion of the paper S. The ink ejected from the nozzle facing the groove 141 is ejected to the upper end of the paper S, and the ink protruding from the upper end is absorbed by the liquid absorbing member 142 provided in the groove 141.

  FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating a state in which ink is ejected to the lower end portion of the paper S (medium). When ink is ejected to the lower end portion of the paper S, ink is ejected only from the nozzles facing the groove portion 141 among the nozzles of the nozzle row formed in the head 20a. Even at the lower end portion, in borderless printing, the ink is ejected to a range larger than the range of the paper S, so that the ink protrudes from the lower end portion of the paper S. The ink ejected from the nozzle facing the groove 141 is ejected to the lower end of the paper S, and the ink protruding from the lower end is absorbed by the liquid absorbing member 142 provided in the groove 141.

  FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating a state of borderless printing at the right end in the carriage movement direction. The figure is a view seen from the front of the printer 1. The paper S is conveyed along the platen 14 from the back side of the drawing toward the front side in the vertical direction of the drawing. A concave groove 143 is formed in the platen 14 so as to be long in the transport direction of the paper S (the vertical direction in the drawing). When the paper S is fed, the position where the paper S is transported in the moving direction of the carriage 15 is fixed by a member (not shown) that contacts the paper S when the paper S is brought to the right side of the printer 1. Therefore, the right end of the paper S always faces the groove 143.

  When the ink is ejected to the right end portion of the paper S, the head 20a provided in the carriage 15 moves from the right side of the drawing to the left side of the drawing after the paper S is fed. In borderless printing, ink is ejected in a range larger than the paper width even in the paper width of the paper S in the moving direction of the carriage 15. Accordingly, ink is ejected from the right end of the paper S. The protruding ink is ejected into the groove 143 and absorbed by the liquid absorbing member 144 provided in the groove 143.

  FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating a state of borderless printing at the left end in the carriage movement direction. The figure is a view seen from the front of the printer 1. The paper S is conveyed along the platen 14 from the back side of the drawing toward the front side in the vertical direction of the drawing. A concave groove 145 is formed in the platen 14 so as to be long in the conveyance direction (vertical direction in the drawing) of the paper S. The position of the groove portion 145 in the carriage direction is formed so that the left end portion of the paper S faces the groove portion 145 in accordance with the width of the paper S.

  When the ink is ejected to the left end portion of the paper S, the head 20a provided in the carriage 15 moves from the left side of the drawing to the right side of the drawing after the paper S is fed. In borderless printing, ink is ejected in a range larger than the paper width even in the paper width of the paper S in the carriage movement direction. Accordingly, ink is ejected from the left end of the paper S. The protruding ink is ejected to the groove portion 145 and absorbed by the liquid absorbing member 146 provided in the groove portion 145.

  As described above, in borderless printing, when ink is ejected to the upper end, the lower end, the right end, and the left end of the paper S, the ink that protrudes from the range of the paper S is formed in the groove formed in the platen 14. Be injected. Then, the ink is absorbed by the liquid absorbing members 142, 144, and 146 provided in the grooves 141, 144, and 146, respectively.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the liquid is ejected from the nozzle beyond the range of the medium.

(First embodiment)
A first embodiment will be described. 1st Example demonstrates the case where the nozzle which injects the liquid containing the liquid hardening inhibitor which suppresses that a liquid hardens | cures is provided. FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of the appearance of a printer 1a as a liquid ejecting apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the printer 1 a is obtained by mounting a polymerization inhibitor cartridge 9 on a carriage 15 in the printer 1 of FIG. 1. The polymerization inhibitor cartridge 9 is filled with a liquid containing a liquid curing inhibitor that inhibits the liquid from curing as a second liquid. In this embodiment, a polymerization inhibitor that suppresses a liquid polymerization reaction is used as the liquid curing inhibitor.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a head 20b including a nozzle that ejects a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor. FIG. 9 is a view of the head 20 b provided at the lower portion of the carriage 15 as viewed from the platen 14 side. In the head 20b, as the first liquid nozzle row, nozzles for ejecting ink are arranged at right angles to the moving direction of the carriage to form nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL. Further, as the second liquid nozzle row, a plurality of nozzles for injecting a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor are arranged in parallel with the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, BL to form the nozzle row JL.

  In the flushing area 16, when ink is ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL to perform flushing, a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor is also ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle row JL.

  You may perform simultaneously the ejection of the ink from the nozzle of nozzle row YL, ML, CL, BL, and the ejection of the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor from the nozzle row JL. Further, the nozzle array is formed by reciprocating the head 20b in the carriage movement direction so that the ink is ejected over the entire area in the flushing area 16 after the ejection of ink from the nozzles of the nozzle arrays YL, ML, CL, and BL. A liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor may be ejected from a JL nozzle.

  When flushing is performed by ejecting ink from the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, the ink is ejected to the liquid absorbing member provided in the flushing area 16. Then, the ink ejected to the liquid absorbing member is cured, and the inside of the liquid absorbing member is cured, or the surface of the liquid absorbing member is covered with the cured ink. Then, since the amount of ink that can be absorbed by the liquid absorbing member is reduced, the ink ejected to the flushing area 16 is dispersed, and equipment around the flushing area 16 may be soiled.

  Therefore, in this way, by ejecting the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor that suppresses the ink from the nozzle row JL from curing to the flushing area 16, the ink that has been ejected to the flushing area 16 and the liquid that contains the polymerization inhibitor Mix. Then, since the ink ejected to the liquid absorbing member provided in the flushing area 16 is suppressed from being cured, the inside of the liquid absorbing member is not cured, and the liquid absorbing member is not covered with the cured ink. Accordingly, since the amount of liquid that can be absorbed by the liquid absorbing member is not reduced, it is possible to prevent the devices around the flushing area 16 from being soiled.

  A portion surrounded by a broken line shown in FIG. 9A indicates that the sealing wall 131 (FIG. 3) of the cap 13 is in contact with the portion. The head 20b moves to a position facing the cap 13, and the cap 13 is brought into contact with the head 20b. Then, a negative pressure is generated in the space in which the head 20 b is sealed with the cap 13 by a pump that sucks through a pipe connected to the discharge port 132. Then, the liquid flows out from the nozzles of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, BL and the nozzles of the nozzle row JL.

  If cleaning is performed so that ink flows out from the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in a head in which the nozzle row JL that ejects the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is not formed, the ink that has flowed out to the cap 13 is cured. As a result, the discharge port 132 (FIG. 3) formed on the bottom surface of the cap 13 may be clogged with the cured ink. In some cases, the ink is hardened inside the pump sucked through the pipe connected to the discharge port 132, and the inside of the pump is clogged with the hardened ink.

  Therefore, in the head 20b including the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL that are nozzles that eject the ink described in the present embodiment, and the nozzle row JL that is a nozzle that ejects a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor, When cleaning is performed using the ink 13, the ink and the liquid containing the liquid inhibitor are mixed on the bottom surface of the cap 13. Then, since the ink is suppressed from being cured, it is possible to suppress clogging of the discharge port 132 of the cap 13 and clogging of the inside of the pump.

  Further, when the head 20 moves to a position facing the cap 13, the head may be driven to eject a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor that suppresses ink from being cured from the nozzle row JL. At this time, the liquid may be ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle row JL while the head 20 is reciprocatingly moved in the carriage movement direction so as to be ejected to the entire bottom surface of the cap 13.

  By doing in this way, it can suppress that the ink already ejected to the bottom face of the cap 13 or the ink which has stayed inside the pump in the pipe is cured. Therefore, it is possible to suppress clogging of the discharge port 132 of the cap 13 and clogging of the pump.

  Further, when borderless printing is performed, a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor that suppresses ink from being cured from the nozzle row JL can be ejected to the groove portion. When an image by borderless printing is formed, and the paper S is transported and there is no paper S at a position facing the groove, a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor that suppresses ink curing from the nozzle JL is ejected to the groove. Let

  As described above, when borderless printing is performed, ink is ejected onto the liquid absorbing member provided in the groove. When the ejected ink is cured, the inside of the liquid absorbing member is cured or the surface of the liquid absorbing member is covered with the cured ink, so that the amount of liquid absorbed is reduced. As a result, the ejected ink is dispersed, and equipment around the flushing area may be soiled.

  Therefore, after performing borderless printing, a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor that suppresses ink curing from the nozzles JL is sprayed onto the grooves. The ink ejected to the liquid absorbing member provided in the groove and the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor are mixed. Then, since it is suppressed that the ejected ink hardens | cures, it is suppressed that the inside of a liquid absorption member hardens | cures or the surface of a liquid absorption member is covered with the hardened ink. Accordingly, since the amount of liquid absorbed by the liquid absorbing member is suppressed, it is possible to prevent the ejected ink from being dispersed and contaminating the device around the groove.

  As described above, the printer 1a as the liquid ejecting apparatus in the present embodiment suppresses the first liquid nozzle row including a plurality of nozzles ejecting ink as the first liquid and the first liquid from being cured. And a second liquid nozzle row composed of a plurality of nozzles for ejecting a second liquid containing a liquid curing inhibitor as a polymerization inhibitor. Accordingly, since the first liquid and the liquid curing inhibitor contained in the second liquid are mixed, it is possible to prevent the first liquid ejected beyond the range of the medium from being cured.

(Second embodiment)
A second embodiment will be described. 2nd Example demonstrates the case where the 2nd liquid nozzle row which injects the 2nd liquid containing a liquid hardening inhibitor is longer than the 1st liquid nozzle row which injects a 1st liquid. The second embodiment is also implemented in the printer 1a in which the polymerization inhibitor cartridge 9 of FIG.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram in which nozzles that eject a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor that are longer than the nozzle rows that eject ink are arranged. In the head 20c, nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, which are a plurality of nozzles for ejecting yellow, magenta, cyan, and black inks, are formed as a first liquid nozzle row in a direction perpendicular to the carriage movement direction. Has been. Further, as the second liquid nozzle row, a nozzle row JL composed of a plurality of nozzles that ejects a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor that suppresses ink curing is substantially parallel to the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL. Is formed.

  L2 indicates the length of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in the nozzle row direction. L3 indicates the length of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction. As shown in the drawing, the length L3 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L2 of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in the nozzle row direction. The nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL are arranged in a range indicated by the length L3 in a direction perpendicular to the carriage movement direction.

  In the flushing area 16, ink is ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL by flushing. Then, the head 20 c is reciprocated so that the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle row JL to the entire range of the flushing area 16, and the ink and the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor are mixed.

  When ink is ejected from the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL at a position facing the flushing area 16, depending on the ink landing accuracy, the position is beyond the range facing the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL. Ink is ejected.

  In this embodiment, since the length L3 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L2 of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in the nozzle row direction, the nozzle row YL, ML, CL, and BL A liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor can be ejected to a position beyond the opposing range. Therefore, since the ejected ink and the polymerization inhibitor are mixed, it is possible to suppress the ink ejected to the liquid absorbing member from being cured.

A range surrounded by a broken line shown in A is a portion where the cap 13 contacts the head 20c.
By cleaning the cap 13 against the head 20c and generating a negative pressure in the space formed by the head 20c and the cap 13, the liquid from the nozzles of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, BL and the nozzle row JL is removed from the bottom surface of the cap 13. Can be drained into.

  Since the nozzle row JL is longer than the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, the range in which the ink and the polymerization inhibitor are mixed is widened on the bottom surface of the cap 13. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the ink from being cured on the bottom surface of the cap 13.

  The head 20c is reciprocated so that the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle row JL onto the entire bottom surface of the cap 13. Then, since the nozzle row JL is longer than the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor is ejected in a range longer than the length L2 of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL. Accordingly, since the ejected ink and the polymerization inhibitor are mixed, it is possible to suppress the ink ejected on the bottom surface of the cap 13 from being cured.

  Thus, in the printer 1a as the liquid ejecting apparatus in the present embodiment, the length in the column direction of the second liquid nozzle row ejecting the second liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor as the liquid curing inhibitor is the first. It is longer than the length in the column direction of the first liquid nozzle row that ejects ink as one liquid. Accordingly, since the polymerization inhibitor can be ejected in a range where the ink is ejected from the nozzles of the first liquid nozzle row, the ink and the polymerization inhibitor can be mixed. And it can suppress that the ejected ink hardens | cures.

(Third embodiment)
A third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, a case will be described in which nozzle rows that eject a liquid containing a liquid curing inhibitor that suppresses ink curing are provided on both sides of a nozzle row that ejects ink. The third embodiment is also implemented in the printer 1a in which the polymerization inhibitor cartridge 9 of FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing that nozzle rows that eject a liquid containing a liquid curing inhibitor that suppresses ink curing are provided on both sides of the nozzle rows that eject ink. In the head 20d, nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, which are nozzles that eject ink, are formed as a first liquid nozzle row at right angles to the moving direction of the carriage. On both sides of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, nozzle rows JL made up of nozzles that eject a liquid containing a liquid curing inhibitor that suppresses ink curing are provided as the second liquid nozzle rows. Arranged in parallel with YL, ML, CL, and BL.

  Here, in order to describe the state of the ink ejected from the nozzle row JL formed on the head 20d, the description will be made using the head 20e. FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating a state where ink is ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL to print the upper end portion of the medium in borderless printing. FIG. 12A is a view as seen from the right side of the printer 1a of FIG. The head 20e provided on the carriage 15 reciprocates in the vertical direction of the drawing. The paper S is conveyed from the right side of the drawing along the upper surface of the platen 14 by a paper feed roller (not shown).

  In the head 20e, ten nozzles # 1 to # 10 are formed in each nozzle row YL, ML, CL, and BL. As shown in the figure, nozzle rows are formed in the transport direction of the paper S.

  As described above, when borderless printing is performed at the upper end, ink is ejected from the nozzles # 3, # 4, # 5, # 6, and # 7 facing the groove 141. At this time, the ink ejected from the nozzle # 3 and the nozzle # 4 at the position facing the groove 141 without being blocked by the paper S is ejected to the groove 141 beyond the range of the paper S.

  FIG. 12B is a diagram illustrating a state when a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor is ejected from the nozzle row JL. FIG. 12B is a view as seen from the right side of the printer 1a of FIG. 8, and is a view seen at the same time as FIG. 12A. In the head 20e, it is assumed that a nozzle row composed of 10 nozzles # 1 to # 10 is formed in the nozzle direction JL in the transport direction.

  While moving the head 20e, when ink is ejected from the nozzles # 3, # 4, # 5, # 6, and # 7 of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, the paper S is not obstructed, A liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor is ejected from the nozzle # 3 and the nozzle # 4 of the nozzle row JL at a position facing the groove 141.

FIG. 13A is a view for explaining the state of the liquid ejected from the nozzle while moving the head 20e from the right side of the drawing to the left side of the drawing. FIG. 13A is a front view of the printer 1a shown in FIG. While ejecting ink from the nozzles of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, BL,
When the carriage 15 is moved in the direction indicated by the arrow and the head 20e moves from the right side of the drawing to the left side of the drawing, a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor is ejected from the nozzle row JL2 on the right side of the drawing. At this time, liquid is not ejected from the nozzle row JL1 on the left side of the drawing.

  FIG. 13B is a view for explaining the state of the liquid ejected from the nozzle while moving the head 20e from the left side of the drawing to the right side of the drawing. FIG. 13B is a diagram viewed from the front of the printer 1a of FIG. When the carriage 15 is moved in the direction indicated by the arrow while ejecting ink from the nozzles of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, and the head 20e moves from the left side of the drawing to the right side of the drawing, the nozzle row JL1 on the left side of the drawing. From which a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor is ejected. At this time, liquid is not ejected from the nozzle row JL2 on the right side of the drawing. Although the description has been made above using the head 20e, the same applies to the head 20d in FIG.

  In this way, when ejecting from the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL while moving the head 20d in the carriage movement direction, one of the nozzle rows JL on both sides can be selected. it can. Therefore, in the moving direction of the head 20d, it is possible to eject from the nozzle row JL at the position behind the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL. Then, after the ink is ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be promptly ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle row JL. That is, since the ink can be quickly mixed with the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor after being ejected to the liquid absorbing member 142 provided in the groove portion 141, the ink is cured inside or on the surface of the liquid absorbing member 142. Can be suppressed.

  Even when ejecting from the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL while reciprocating the head, by selecting the nozzle row JL on one side of the nozzle rows JL on both sides, the nozzle row in the moving direction is selected. A liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor can be rapidly ejected from the nozzle row JL located behind YL, ML, CL, and BL.

  As described above, the first liquid nozzle row for ejecting ink as the first liquid and the second liquid nozzle row for ejecting liquid containing a liquid curing inhibitor such as a polymerization inhibitor as the second liquid are provided. Lined up in parallel. The second liquid nozzle row is disposed on both sides of the first liquid nozzle row. Then, when the ink is ejected while moving the head, the second liquid behind the first liquid nozzle row ejecting ink from the second liquid nozzle rows on both sides in the moving direction. A nozzle row can be selected. Accordingly, after the ink is ejected, the liquid containing the liquid curing inhibitor can be ejected promptly. That is, since the ink and the liquid inhibitor are quickly mixed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from being cured.

  In addition, since the second liquid nozzle row for ejecting the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is provided on both sides of the first liquid nozzle row for ejecting the ink, the moving distance of the head can be shortened. Can be For example, in the printer 1a of FIG. 8, when the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is ejected at a position close to the right side surface, the second liquid nozzle row on the right side of the drawing is selected and ejected. Conversely, when the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is ejected at a position close to the left side surface, the second liquid nozzle row on the left side of the drawing is selected and ejected. In this way, the distance for moving the head can be shortened.

(Fourth embodiment)
A fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, there is provided a first cap that covers a nozzle that ejects a liquid and a second cap that covers a nozzle that ejects a liquid containing a liquid curing inhibitor. FIG. 14 is a schematic external perspective view of a printer 1b including a first cap and a second cap.

  The printer 1b shown in FIG. 14 includes a cap 13 as a first cap that covers a nozzle row including nozzles that eject ink. Further, as the second cap, a cap 19a on the left side of the drawing covering a nozzle row composed of nozzles for injecting a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor, and a nozzle on the right side of the drawing covering a nozzle row consisting of nozzles for injecting a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor. And a cap 19b.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the external shape of the cap 19 (19a, 19b). The appearance of the cap 19a and the cap 19b is the same. A sealing wall 191 that contacts and seals the head and a sealing wall fixing plate 193 that fixes the sealing wall 191 are configured. A discharge port 192 connected to a pipe (not shown) connected to the pump is formed on the bottom surface of the sealing wall fixing plate 193.

  FIG. 16 is a view of the ejection surface of the head 20f with which the cap 13, the cap 19a, and the cap 19b abut.

  The head 20f is formed with nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL each composed of a plurality of nozzles that respectively eject yellow, magenta, cyan, and black inks. Each nozzle row is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the carriage. A nozzle row JL composed of a plurality of nozzles for injecting a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor is formed on each side of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL approximately in parallel with the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL. ing.

  The range of the broken line shown in A shows the range of the surface where the cap 13 contacts the head 20f. The range of the broken line shown in C shows the range of the surface where the cap 19a and the cap 19b come into contact with the head 20f.

  The length indicated by L4 indicates the length of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in the nozzle row direction. The length indicated by L5 indicates the length of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction. The length indicated by L1 indicates the length of both ends of the surface on which the cap 13 abuts in the direction perpendicular to the carriage movement direction when the cap 13 abuts on the head 20f. That is, the length is L1 in the direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the carriage shown on the surface of the sealing wall 131 of the cap 13 in FIG. 3 opposite to the sealing wall fixing plate 132.

  The length L5 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L4 of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in the nozzle row direction. Further, the length L5 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L1 of both ends of the abutting surface of the cap 13. That is, the length L5 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L1 of both ends of the surface where the cap 13 abuts against the head 20f in the nozzle row direction.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram viewed from the front of the printer 1b, and is a diagram for explaining how the cap 13, the cap 19a, and the cap 19b seal the head 20f. As described above, the nozzle row YL, ML, CL, and BL are covered and sealed by the cap 13 by the cap elevating unit 50 described above, and the nozzle row JL on the left side of FIG. 16 is covered by the cap 19a. The nozzle row JL on the right side of the drawing is sealed by being covered with the cap 19b, and cleaning is performed.

  As described above, the printer 1b as the liquid ejecting apparatus includes the cap 13 serving as the first cap that covers the nozzle arrays YL, ML, CL, and BL that eject the ink, and the nozzle array JL that ejects the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor. A cap 19a and a cap 19b serving as second caps are provided separately. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the ink from flowing along the edge of the cap or the nozzle formation surface and flowing into the nozzles of the nozzle row JL that ejects the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor. That is, it is possible to suppress clogging of the nozzles of the nozzle array JL that ejects the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor with the cured ink.

  The length L5 of the nozzle row JL as the second liquid nozzle row in the nozzle row direction is the nozzle row direction of the second liquid nozzle row on the surface where the cap 13 as the first cap contacts the head 20f. It is longer than the length L1 at both ends. Then, since the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle row JL to the contact surface of the cap 13, the ink sprayed to the contact surface of the cap 13 and the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor are Mix. Therefore, it can suppress that the hardened ink adheres to the contact surface of the cap 13, and can suppress that adhesiveness with the head 20f reduces.

  In addition, since the length L5 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L4 of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in the nozzle row direction, depending on the ink landing accuracy, the nozzle row YL, ML, CL Even when the ink is ejected beyond the range facing BL, the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be ejected to a position beyond the range facing the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, BL. Therefore, the ink and the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be mixed to suppress the curing of the ink.

  In addition, the nozzle array JL that ejects the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is provided on both sides of the nozzle arrays YL, ML, CL, and BL that eject the ink, so that the carriage 15 is reciprocated to eject the ink. Sometimes, by selecting one nozzle row from the nozzle rows on both sides, the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be ejected after ejecting the ink. Therefore, it is possible to quickly suppress ink curing.

(5th Example)
FIG. 18 is a diagram in which nozzles for ejecting a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor formed at a nozzle pitch larger than the nozzle pitch of the nozzle for ejecting ink are provided on both sides. In the head 20g disposed at the lower part of the carriage 15, nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL are formed of nozzles that eject ink in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the carriage. On both sides of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL, nozzle rows JL composed of nozzles that eject a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor are formed substantially in parallel with the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL.

  P1 indicates a nozzle pitch that is a length between nozzles of nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL including nozzles that eject ink. P2 indicates a nozzle pitch that is the length between nozzles of the nozzle row JL that is composed of nozzles that eject a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor. The nozzle pitch P2 is twice the nozzle pitch P1.

  As shown in the drawing, in the nozzle row direction, the position of the nozzle of the nozzle row JL formed on the right side of the drawing and the position of the nozzle of the nozzle row JL formed on the left side of the drawing are shifted by the length of the nozzle pitch P1. Are arranged. That is, the position of the nozzle of the nozzle row JL formed on the right side of the drawing and the position of the nozzle of the nozzle row JL formed on the left side of the drawing are not arranged on the same line in the carriage movement direction.

While moving the carriage 15 in the carriage moving direction, from the nozzle rows JL on both sides,
When the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is ejected, the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is ejected at the same interval as the nozzle pitch P1 of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL that eject the ink. Therefore, the ejected ink and the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be mixed.

  The nozzle pitch of the second liquid nozzle row that ejects the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor disposed on both sides is larger than the nozzle pitch of the first nozzle row that ejects ink, and one of the second nozzle rows in the nozzle row direction. The position of the nozzle of the liquid nozzle row is shifted from the position of the nozzle of the other second liquid nozzle row. Accordingly, since the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is ejected from the second liquid nozzle row on both sides while moving the head, the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is ejected at the same interval as the ink is ejected. The ink and the polymerization inhibitor can be mixed to suppress the ink from being cured.

(Sixth embodiment)
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing that nozzle rows comprising nozzles for injecting a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor are provided on both sides, and the nozzle diameters of one nozzle row and the other nozzle row are different. In the head 20h provided at the lower part of the carriage 15, nozzles for ejecting ink are arranged at right angles to the moving direction of the carriage to form nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL. Further, nozzles for injecting a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor are arranged substantially in parallel with the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL to form the nozzle rows JLa and JLb.

  D1 indicates the diameter of the nozzle of the nozzle row JLa formed in the head 20h. D2 represents the diameter of the nozzle of the nozzle row JLb formed in the head 20h. The nozzle diameter D2 of the nozzle row JLb is larger than the nozzle diameter D1 of the nozzle row JLa.

  The amount of the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor ejected from the nozzle JLb is ejected more than the amount of the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor ejected from the nozzle JLa.

  Thus, out of the second liquid nozzle row composed of nozzles that eject the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor disposed on both sides, the nozzle diameter of one second liquid nozzle row and the other second liquid The nozzle diameter of the nozzle row is different. Then, if one nozzle row is selected from the nozzle row JLa and the nozzle row JLb, the amount of the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be changed and ejected. Alternatively, if the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle rows on both sides of the nozzle row JLa and the nozzle row JLb, the amount of the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be further increased. Accordingly, since the amount of the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be changed according to the amount of the ejected ink, the amount of the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be increased even if the amount of the ejected ink is increased. By increasing the value, the ink can be prevented from curing.

  In addition, the polymerization inhibitor can be selected by selecting from the nozzle rows on both sides without changing the amount of ink ejected by changing the drive waveform of the head or changing the number of output of the drive waveform. Since the amount of liquid to be contained can be changed, an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

  The above first to sixth embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention can be changed and improved without departing from the gist thereof, and it is needless to say that the present invention includes equivalents thereof. In particular, the embodiments described below are also included in the present invention.

(Modification)
In the first to sixth embodiments, a nozzle row composed of nozzles that eject ink and a nozzle row composed of nozzles that eject a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor are formed on one head. In the modified example, a case will be described in which a nozzle row composed of nozzles that eject a polymerization inhibitor is formed on a head different from the head in which a nozzle row composed of nozzles that eject ink is formed.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram of a head in which a nozzle for ejecting ink is formed and a head in which a nozzle for ejecting a polymerization inhibitor is formed. A head 20 i is provided below the carriage 15. The head 30 and the head 40 are disposed on both sides of the head 20i. The head 20i is formed with nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL that are nozzles that eject ink. In the head 30 and the head 40, nozzle rows JL for ejecting a liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor are formed one by one.

  A range surrounded by a broken line indicated by A indicates a surface on which the sealing wall 131 of the cap 13 abuts against the head 20i. A range surrounded by a broken line shown in C indicates a surface on which the sealing walls 191 (FIG. 15) of the cap 19a and the cap 19b abut against the head 20i.

  The length indicated by L4 indicates the length of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in the nozzle row direction. The length indicated by L5 indicates the length of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction. The length indicated by L1 indicates the length of both ends of the surface on which the cap 13 abuts in the direction perpendicular to the carriage movement direction when the cap 13 abuts on the head 20i. That is, the length is L1 in the direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the carriage shown on the surface of the sealing wall 131 of the cap 13 in FIG. 3 opposite to the sealing wall fixing plate 132.

  The length L5 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L4 of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in the nozzle row direction. Further, the length L5 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L1 of both ends of the abutting surface of the cap 13. That is, the length L5 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L1 of both ends of the surface where the cap 13 contacts the head 20i in the nozzle row direction.

  Also in this modified example, as described in the fourth embodiment, the nozzle rows YL, ML, and BL are covered and sealed by the cap 13 by the cap elevating part 50 in FIG. 17, and the nozzle row JL on the left side of the drawing is sealed. Is covered and sealed by the cap 19a, and the nozzle row on the right side of the drawing is covered and sealed by the cap 19b for cleaning.

  As described above, the head 20i is formed in another embodiment by forming the nozzle row composed of the nozzles ejecting the polymerization inhibitor on the head different from the head formed with the nozzle row composed of the nozzles ejecting ink. The head to be used can be used. Therefore, an increase in the manufacturing cost of the head can be suppressed.

  Further, the length L5 of the nozzle row JL as the second liquid nozzle row in the nozzle row direction is the nozzle row direction of the second liquid nozzle row on the surface where the cap 13 as the first cap contacts the head 20i. It is longer than the length L1 at both ends. Then, since the liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor can be ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle row JL onto the contact surface of the cap 13, the ink sprayed onto the contact surface of the cap 13 and the polymerization inhibitor are mixed. Therefore, it can suppress that the hardened ink adheres to the contact surface of the cap 13, and can suppress that adhesiveness with the head 20i reduces.

  In addition, since the length L5 of the nozzle row JL in the nozzle row direction is longer than the length L4 of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL in the nozzle row direction, depending on the ink landing accuracy, the nozzle row YL, ML, CL Even when the ink is ejected beyond the range facing BL, the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be ejected to a position beyond the range facing the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, BL. Accordingly, the ink and the polymerization inhibitor can be mixed to suppress the curing of the ink.

  Further, when the nozzle array JL for ejecting the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor is provided on both sides of the nozzle arrays YL, ML, CL, and BL for ejecting ink, the carriage is reciprocated to eject ink. In addition, by selecting the nozzle row on one side from the nozzle rows on both sides, the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor can be ejected after ejecting the ink. Therefore, it is possible to quickly suppress ink curing.

  In addition, since the cap 13, the cap 19a, and the cap 19b are provided and each head is covered and sealed, a nozzle row in which the ink flows along the cap edge and the nozzle forming surface and ejects the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor. It can suppress flowing into the nozzle of JL. That is, it is possible to suppress clogging of the nozzles of the nozzle array JL that ejects the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor with the cured ink.

The technique described above can also be applied to the case where bubbles are generated in the nozzle using a heating element and the liquid is ejected by the bubbles.
The technology described above can be applied to various industrial apparatuses other than a printing apparatus that performs printing by ejecting ink onto paper or the like. Main examples include a printing apparatus for applying a pattern to a fabric, a display manufacturing apparatus such as an organic EL (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, and the like.

FIG. 3 is a schematic external perspective view of the printer 1 as viewed from the front side. The figure explaining the nozzle row formed in the ejection surface of head 20a. FIG. The figure which shows when the cap raising / lowering part 50 exists in the position which lowered | hung the cap 13. FIG. The figure which shows a time when the cap raising / lowering part 50 exists in the position which raised the cap 13. FIG. (A) is a figure which shows a mode that an ink is ejected to the upper end part of paper S (medium), (b) is a figure which shows a mode that an ink is ejected to the lower end part of paper S (medium). FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating a state of borderless printing at a right end portion in a carriage movement direction, and FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating a state of borderless printing at a left end portion in a carriage movement direction. FIG. 3 is a schematic external perspective view of a printer 1a according to first to third embodiments. The figure which shows the head 20b provided with the nozzle which injects the liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor. The figure which has arrange | positioned the nozzle which ejects the liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor longer than the nozzle row | line which ejects ink. The figure which showed having the nozzle row | line | column which ejects the liquid containing a liquid hardening inhibitor on both sides of the nozzle row | line which ejects ink. (A) is a figure explaining a mode that ink is ejected from the nozzles of the nozzle rows YL, ML, CL, and BL to print the upper end portion of the medium in borderless printing, and (b) is a polymerization from the nozzle row JL. The figure explaining a mode when injecting the liquid containing an inhibitor. (A) is a diagram for explaining the state of the liquid ejected from the nozzle while moving the head 20e from the right side of the drawing to the left side of the drawing. FIG. The figure explaining the mode of the liquid to inject. The external appearance schematic perspective view of the printer 1b in 4th Example. The figure which shows the external appearance shape of the caps 19a and 19b. The figure of the ejection surface of the head 20f which the cap 13, the cap 19a, and the cap 19b contact | abut each. The figure explaining a mode that the cap 13, the cap 19a, and the cap 19b each seal the head 20f. The figure provided with the nozzle which ejects the liquid containing the polymerization inhibitor formed with the nozzle pitch larger than the nozzle pitch of the nozzle which ejects ink on both sides. The figure which shows that the nozzle row which consists of the nozzle which injects the liquid containing a polymerization inhibitor is provided in both sides, and the diameter of the nozzle of one nozzle row and the other nozzle row differs. The figure of the head in which the nozzle in which the nozzle which ejects an ink was formed, and the nozzle in which a polymerization inhibitor is ejected was formed.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 1a, 1b ... Printer as liquid ejecting apparatus, 13 ... Cap as first cap, 19, 19a, 19b ... Cap as second cap, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20e, 20f, 20g 20h ... head, D1 ... nozzle diameter, D2 ... nozzle diameter, JL, JL1, JL2, JLa, JLb ... nozzle row as second liquid nozzle row, L1 ... surface on which the first cap contacts the head The length of both ends of the second liquid nozzle row in the row direction, L2... The length of the first liquid nozzle row in the row direction, L3... The length of the second liquid nozzle row in the row direction, L4. Length of one liquid nozzle row in the row direction, L5 ... length of the second liquid nozzle row in the row direction, P1 ... nozzle pitch, P2 ... nozzle pitch, YL ... nozzle row as the first liquid nozzle row, ML ... 1st The nozzle array as a liquid nozzle array, CL ... nozzle array as a first liquid nozzle row, BL ... nozzle array as a first liquid nozzle row.

Claims (9)

A first liquid nozzle row comprising a plurality of nozzles for ejecting the first liquid;
A liquid ejecting head comprising: a second liquid nozzle row comprising a plurality of nozzles that eject a second liquid containing a liquid curing inhibitor that inhibits the first liquid from curing. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 1,
The length of the second liquid nozzle row in the row direction is longer than the length of the first liquid nozzle row in the row direction. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 1 or 2,
The first liquid nozzle row and the second liquid nozzle row are arranged substantially in parallel, and the second liquid nozzle row is disposed on both sides of the first liquid nozzle row. head. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 3,
The nozzle pitch of the second liquid nozzle row arranged on both sides is larger than the nozzle pitch of the first liquid nozzle row, and one second liquid nozzle row in the row direction of the second liquid nozzle row. A liquid ejecting head, wherein the position of the nozzle and the position of the nozzle of the other second liquid nozzle row are shifted. The liquid ejecting head according to claim 3,
Among the second liquid nozzle rows arranged on both sides, the liquid jet is characterized in that the nozzle diameter of one second liquid nozzle row is different from the diameter of the nozzle of the other second liquid nozzle row. head.   The liquid ejecting head according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid is an ultraviolet curable liquid.   The liquid ejecting head according to claim 1, wherein the liquid curing inhibitor includes a polymerization inhibitor that suppresses a liquid polymerization reaction. The liquid jet head according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
A first cap covering the first liquid nozzle row;
And a second cap that covers the second liquid nozzle row. The liquid ejecting apparatus according to claim 8,
The length in the row direction of the second liquid nozzle row is longer than the length of both ends in the row direction of the second liquid nozzle row on the surface where the first cap contacts the head. Injection device.

Images