JP2016147456A - Printing apparatus and printing method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To more appropriately perform various printings.SOLUTION: A printing apparatus 10 for performing printing to a medium 50 includes: inkjet heads 102y to k for ejecting an ink droplet toward a medium 50 with an inkjet printing method; and a dispenser 14 for ejecting high-viscosity ink which is ink having higher viscosity than that of ink that is used in the inkjet heads 102y to k, toward the medium. The high-viscosity ink is preferably ink containing a curable resin which is cured according to predetermined conditions.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus and a printing method.

  Conventionally, ink jet printers that perform printing by an ink jet method have been widely used (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1). Inkjet printers perform printing by ejecting ink droplets of low viscosity ink from fine nozzles of an inkjet head.

Internet URL: http://www.mimaki.co.jp

  When printing is performed by an ink jet printer, various restrictions are imposed on usable ink due to its configuration. However, in order to perform more diverse printing, it is desired to use inks having more various characteristics. For this reason, there has been a demand for a configuration that can perform printing using ink that is difficult to use with an inkjet head. SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides a printing method and a printing apparatus that can solve the above-described problems.

  The inventor of the present application has conducted extensive research on a configuration that can use various inks. First, attention has been focused on features that are limited with respect to ink for inkjet heads. More specifically, for example, attention has been paid to restrictions on the viscosity of ink for inkjet heads.

  Conventionally, when printing is performed using an inkjet head, it is necessary to use an ink having a very low viscosity. On the other hand, it may be preferable to use a higher viscosity ink depending on, for example, the use of the ink and the printing method. For example, when performing raised printing with a raised portion on a medium to be printed (media), it may be preferable to use an ink having a higher viscosity.

  For example, when an ink containing a filler such as a metallic pigment is used, if the ink has a low viscosity, the bias of the filler may easily occur. Further, when the viscosity of the ink is low, there may be a case where sufficient time for properly orienting the filler on the medium cannot be secured. Therefore, even in such a case, it may be preferable to use a higher viscosity ink.

  Therefore, the inventor of the present application first considered performing printing using a dispenser as a configuration in which ink having a higher viscosity can be used. If comprised in this way, for example, uplift printing etc. can be performed more appropriately. Further, it is considered that ink containing a filler can be used more appropriately.

  However, depending on the contents of printing, it may be preferable to use an inkjet head rather than a dispenser. For example, in the case of drawing a high-definition image or the like, it may be possible to perform printing more appropriately using an inkjet head.

  Therefore, the inventors of the present application further considered using not only a dispenser but also an inkjet head and a dispenser in a single printing apparatus. If comprised in this way, the printing according to each characteristic can be performed appropriately by using both a dispenser and an inkjet head, for example. Moreover, various printing can be performed more appropriately by this. That is, in order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration.

  (Configuration 1) A printing apparatus that performs printing on a medium, an inkjet head that ejects ink droplets toward the medium by an inkjet method, and a high-viscosity ink that is an ink having a higher viscosity than the ink used in the inkjet head A dispenser that discharges toward the medium.

  When configured in this way, for example, even when ink that is difficult to be ejected by an inkjet head is used, the ink can be ejected appropriately by the dispenser. Further, the printing apparatus further includes an inkjet head as well as a dispenser. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately perform printing according to each characteristic using both the dispenser and the inkjet head. Therefore, if constituted in this way, various printing can be appropriately performed to a medium, for example.

  In this configuration, the ink is, for example, a liquid used for printing. Further, the dispenser is a device (liquid fixed amount discharge device) that discharges a certain volume of liquid according to control.

  As the ink used in the dispenser, more specifically, for example, it is conceivable to use an ink having a viscosity higher than 20 mPa · s. In this case, the viscosity of the ink is preferably 50 mPa · s or more, more preferably 100 mPa · s or more. In the dispenser, for example, it is also conceivable to use ink containing a large filler. In this case, the filler is, for example, fine particles dispersed in the ink. For example, the filler may be decorative fine particles such as glossy particles and fluorescent particles. More specifically, the filler may be, for example, a metallic pigment, a pearl pigment, or various inorganic pigments. Further, as the filler, for example, it is conceivable to use leaf-like or scale-like fine particles.

  Moreover, as a dispenser, a small microdispenser etc. can be used suitably. If comprised in this way, a dispenser can be moved appropriately at the time of printing, for example.

  The ink jet head performs, for example, color printing on the medium. For example, the printing apparatus may include a plurality of inkjet heads that eject ink droplets of different colors. Moreover, it is possible to use well-known various ink as an ink for inkjet heads. For example, it is conceivable to use textile printing ink, solvent ink, latex ink, ultraviolet curable ink (UV ink), solvent UV ink, solid ink, or the like as ink for an inkjet head.

  (Configuration 2) A high-viscosity ink is an ink containing a curable resin that cures in accordance with predetermined conditions. If comprised in this way, a high-viscosity ink can be appropriately fixed with respect to a medium, for example. Moreover, it is preferable that the printing apparatus further includes, for example, a curing unit that cures the curable resin. In this case, for example, the curing unit cures the curable resin contained in the high-viscosity ink on the medium.

  (Configuration 3) The curable resin is an ultraviolet curable resin that is cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays. If comprised in this way, the cured resin on a medium can be hardened appropriately, for example. In this case, the printing apparatus includes, for example, an ultraviolet irradiation device as the curing unit.

  In this case, it is conceivable to use an ultraviolet curable ink as the ink for the ink jet head. If comprised in this way, the ink for inkjet heads can also be appropriately hardened by the hardening means which hardens the curable ink for dispensers, for example. Further, as the ink for the ink jet head, an ink other than the ultraviolet curable ink may be used.

  (Configuration 4) The dispenser discharges the high-viscosity ink toward the medium by performing vector scanning that moves relative to the medium while continuously discharging the high-viscosity ink. If comprised in this way, the printing operation by a dispenser can be performed appropriately, for example.

  The vector scan is, for example, a scanning operation (vector scan) for moving a dispenser or the like along a shape of a preset figure. More specifically, causing the dispenser to perform vector scanning is, for example, moving the dispenser along a preset linear trajectory while causing the dispenser to continuously discharge ink. .

  (Configuration 5) The apparatus further includes a vertical drive unit that moves the dispenser in a vertical direction that is a direction orthogonal to the printing surface of the medium, and while the dispenser continuously discharges high-viscosity ink, The vertical drive unit keeps the distance between the dispenser and the printing surface within a preset range and matches the timing at which the dispenser continuously discharges the high-viscosity ink. The dispenser is moved in a direction away from the printing surface. If comprised in this way, a vector scan can be made to perform a dispenser appropriately, for example.

  For example, the vertical driving unit cuts the ink that is continuously ejected to perform drawing by vector scanning by separating the dispenser from the printing surface at the timing of completion of each vector scanning. Perform the action. Further, for example, the vertical direction driving unit brings the dispenser closer to the printing surface before starting the next vector scan. As a result, the front end of the ink for performing drawing by the next vector operation is brought into contact with the printing surface. If comprised in this way, the operation | movement of the start and completion | finish of vector scanning can be performed more appropriately.

  (Configuration 6) The dispenser discharges the high-viscosity ink toward the medium by performing raster scanning that moves relative to the medium while intermittently discharging the high-viscosity ink. If comprised in this way, the printing operation by a dispenser can be performed appropriately, for example.

  The raster scanning is a scanning operation in which a dispenser or the like is moved so as to draw a raster image expressed by a sequence of dot-like pixels, for example. More specifically, causing the dispenser to perform raster scanning means, for example, moving the dispenser in a preset scanning direction while causing the dispenser to intermittently discharge ink.

  Further, when printing is performed by an inkjet method, the inkjet head usually draws an image by raster scanning. As raster scanning, for example, a main scanning operation is performed in which ink droplets are ejected while moving in a preset main scanning direction. Therefore, when causing the dispenser to perform raster scanning, for example, it is conceivable to perform the same control on the inkjet head and the dispenser. More specifically, for example, it is possible to cause the dispenser to perform a main scanning operation together with the inkjet head.

  (Arrangement 7) The high-viscosity ink is an ink containing a filler. When configured in this manner, for example, a sufficiently high viscosity ink can be used as the high viscosity ink containing the filler. In addition, this makes it possible to more appropriately use the ink containing the filler. Therefore, if comprised in this way, various printing can be performed more appropriately, for example.

  In addition, when using a dispenser, for example, it is possible to use a larger filler than when using an inkjet head. Therefore, if comprised in this way, a more various filler can be used appropriately, for example.

  In addition, when an ink containing a curable resin and a filler is used in the dispenser, for example, after the high-viscosity ink adheres to the medium, at least a preset waiting time elapses for fixing the filler to the surface of the medium. After that, it is preferable to cure the curable resin. If comprised in this way, the orientation of a filler can be improved more appropriately, for example.

  (Configuration 8) The high-viscosity ink is an ink containing a curable resin that cures according to predetermined conditions, and the printing apparatus further includes a curing unit that cures the curable resin contained in the high-viscosity ink, and the curing unit. The curable resin is cured while the high-viscosity ink is raised on the medium, thereby forming a region raised by the curable resin on at least a part of the medium. With this configuration, for example, raised printing can be appropriately performed on a medium.

  (Configuration 9) A printing method for printing on a medium, an inkjet head that ejects ink droplets toward the medium by an inkjet method, and a high-viscosity ink that is an ink having a higher viscosity than the ink used in the inkjet head Printing is performed using a dispenser that discharges toward the medium. If comprised in this way, the effect similar to the structure 1 can be acquired, for example.

  According to the present invention, for example, various printing can be performed more appropriately.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a printing apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A shows an example of the configuration of the main part of the printing apparatus 10. FIG. 1B shows an example of a printing operation performed by the printing apparatus 10. FIG. 1C shows another example of the printing operation performed by the printing apparatus 10. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation for performing printing on the medium 50 using the head unit 12 and the dispenser 14. FIG. FIG. 2A shows an example of an operation in a printing stage in which color printing is performed by the head unit 12. FIG. 2B shows an example of the operation in the ejection stage in which the decorating ink is ejected toward the medium 50 by the dispenser 14. FIG. 2C shows an example of an operation in a curing stage in which the decorative ink on the medium 50 is cured by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of an operation of performing printing on the medium 50 using the head unit 12 and the dispenser 14. FIGS. 3A and 3B show an example of operations in the printing stage and the ejection stage performed in this case. FIG. 3C shows an example of the operation in the standby stage in which the operation waits for a certain time after performing the operation in the discharge stage. FIG. 3D shows an example of the operation of the curing stage performed in this case. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation | movement performed sequentially, when performing a bulge printing using a permeation suppression ink. FIG. 4A shows an example of the operation of the permeation suppression ink application step for applying the permeation suppression ink to the medium. FIGS. 4B and 4C show an example of the operation of the discharge stage and the curing stage performed in this case.

  Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of a printing apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A shows an example of the configuration of the main part of the printing apparatus 10. Except as described below, the printing apparatus 10 may have the same or similar configuration as a known inkjet printer. For example, the printing apparatus 10 of this example may be an apparatus in which a configuration related to the dispenser 14 described below is added to a known inkjet printer.

  In this example, the printing apparatus 10 is a printing apparatus that performs printing on a fibrous medium 50, and includes a head unit 12, a dispenser 14, an ultraviolet irradiation unit 16, a medium holding unit 18, a head driving unit 20, and a dispenser driving unit. 22, a UV light source drive unit 24, a medium transport unit 26, and a control unit 28. In this case, the medium 50 is a base material (medium) to be printed. The fibrous medium 50 is, for example, various fiber products. More specifically, as the medium 50, for example, it is possible to use clothing such as a T-shirt, cloth, or the like.

  In the modified example of the configuration of the printing apparatus 10, for example, a medium other than the textile product may be used as the medium 50. For example, it is conceivable to use various known media that can be printed by an inkjet method. More specifically, for example, a rigid medium such as plastic or ceramic may be used.

  The head portion 12 is a portion having a plurality of ink jet heads 102 y to 102 k that perform printing on the medium 50 by an ink jet method. In this case, each of the plurality of inkjet heads 102 y to 102 k has a nozzle that ejects ink droplets of different colors, and ejects ink droplets from each nozzle toward the medium 50. More specifically, in this example, each of the plurality of inkjet heads 102y-k discharges ink droplets of each color of Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black). Accordingly, the head unit 12 performs a color printing operation on the medium 50.

  In this example, an ink having a viscosity of 20 mPa · s or less is used as the ink for the ink jet heads 102 y to 102 k. If comprised in this way, an ink drop can be appropriately discharged, for example with an inkjet system. In addition, as the ink for the ink jet heads 102y to 102k, for example, a known ink jet head ink suitable for the medium 50 to be used can be suitably used. For example, when a textile product is used as the medium 50, it is conceivable to use a known textile printing ink. In addition, for example, it is conceivable to use ultraviolet curable ink (UV ink) that cures in response to ultraviolet irradiation. It is also conceivable to use solvent ink, latex ink, solvent UV ink, solid ink, or the like as the ink for the inkjet heads 102y to 102k.

  The dispenser 14 is a liquid fixed-quantity discharge device that discharges a constant volume of liquid according to control, and discharges ink toward the medium 50 by a method different from the inkjet heads 102 y to 102 k in the head unit 12. Moreover, in this example, the dispenser 14 discharges the curable ink which is an ink containing the curable resin hardened | cured according to predetermined conditions. More specifically, in this example, the dispenser 14 uses an ultraviolet curable ink containing an ultraviolet curable resin as the curable ink. Thereby, the dispenser 14 performs the operation | movement which discharges curable ink toward the medium 50, for example.

  Here, in the dispenser 14, it is conceivable to use various inks depending on the purpose of printing. For example, it can be considered to use a colored ink of a predetermined color (color ink), a colorless and transparent clear ink, a metallic ink, or an ink containing various inorganic pigments.

  The dispenser 14 may be a device that extrudes a high-viscosity liquid at a high pressure, for example. As the dispenser 14, for example, a known small dispenser (for example, a micro dispenser) can be suitably used. In this case, for example, it is preferable to use a dispenser (for example, a high-resolution dispenser capable of printing an image) that can eject ink at a resolution corresponding to the quality required for printing. More specifically, the resolution of printing by the dispenser 14 may be substantially the same as the resolution of modeling in a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus such as a 3D printer. Moreover, the dispenser 14 may be a structure including at least a mechanism for discharging a certain amount of liquid. The dispenser 14 may further include means for controlling a mechanism for discharging the liquid. More specifically, as the dispenser 14, for example, a Heisin microdispenser HD type (for example, 3HD010G30 or 3HD025G30) manufactured by Hyojin Equipment Co., Ltd. can be suitably used. Moreover, for example, Musashi Engineering Co., Ltd. screw dispenser MSD-2, mechanical high precision dispenser MAX-2-N, etc. can be used suitably.

  In this example, the curable ink used in the dispenser 14 is an example of a high-viscosity ink that is an ink having a higher viscosity than the ink for an inkjet head. That is, the dispenser 14 ejects ink having a higher viscosity than, for example, ink for the inkjet heads 102y to 102k. In this case, the dispenser 14 may eject ink having a viscosity that is difficult to eject by the inkjet head. More specifically, as the ink used in the dispenser 14, for example, it is preferable to use an ink having a viscosity higher than 20 mPa · s. The viscosity of the ink for the dispenser 14 is preferably 50 mPa · s or more, and more preferably 100 mPa · s or more. Further, the maximum viscosity of the ink (the upper limit of the viscosity) is determined by, for example, the performance of the dispenser 14 to be used. Therefore, the viscosity of the ink may be in a range that can be used by the dispenser 14 according to the model and performance of the dispenser 14.

  Further, as the curable ink for the dispenser 14, for example, an ink containing a large filler that is difficult to be ejected by an inkjet head may be used. In this case, the filler is, for example, fine particles dispersed in the ink. More specifically, the filler may be, for example, glossy particles or fluorescent particles. As the glossy particles, for example, metallic pigments, pearl pigments, and the like can be used. In addition, the filler is not limited to a widely used spherical, polygonal, or elliptical filler, but may be a leaf-like or scale-like fine particle.

  Further, the curable ink for the dispenser 14 may include, for example, a filler larger than the diameter of the nozzles of the inkjet heads 102y to 102k. For example, the curable ink for the dispenser 14 may include a filler having a diameter of 1 mm or more. In this case, including a filler having a diameter of 1 mm or more may include, for example, a filler having a design size of 1 mm or more.

  Further, when the dispenser 14 is used, the ink is pushed out at a high pressure, and therefore even a highly viscous ink can be appropriately discharged. In this case, for example, even when a large filler is used, the use of a curable ink having a high viscosity can appropriately suppress the occurrence of bias of the filler due to precipitation or the like. Therefore, according to this example, it is possible to more appropriately use ink containing a large-sized filler. This also makes it possible to more appropriately use, for example, gold or silver ink having high luminance. The printing operation performed using the dispenser 14 will be described in more detail later.

  The ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 is a light source that emits ultraviolet rays that cure the ultraviolet curable ink. In this case, curing the ink means, for example, curing a curable resin in the ink. Further, in this example, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 irradiates at least the curable ink ejected by the dispenser 14 onto the medium 50. As a result, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 performs an operation of curing the curable resin discharged onto the medium 50. If comprised in this way, the curable ink on the medium 50 can be appropriately hardened, for example.

  The ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 is an example of a curing unit that cures the curable resin. As the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16, for example, a light source having a UV LED can be suitably used. Moreover, as a light source of the ultraviolet irradiation part 16, for example, an ultraviolet lamp or a metal halide lamp may be used. Further, when the ultraviolet curable ink is used in the inkjet heads 102 y to 102 k, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 may irradiate the ink ejected onto the medium 50 by the inkjet heads 102 y to 102 k.

  The medium holding unit 18 is a holding member that holds the medium 50 and holds the medium 50 in a state of facing the head unit 12 and the dispenser 14. As the medium holding part 18, for example, a plate-like member such as a platen can be suitably used.

  The head drive unit 20 is a drive unit that causes the head unit 12 to perform a printing operation. In this example, the head drive unit 20 causes the inkjet heads 102 y to 102 k included in the head unit 12 to perform a main scanning operation, for example, as a printing operation by the head unit 12. In this case, the main scanning operation is, for example, an operation of ejecting ink droplets while moving in a preset main scanning direction (Y direction in the drawing). Thereby, the head unit 12 performs a printing operation on the medium 50 in the same or similar manner as the head unit in a known inkjet printer, for example.

  The dispenser driving unit 22 is a driving unit that causes the dispenser 14 to perform a printing operation. In this example, the dispenser driving unit 22 causes the dispenser 14 to perform vector scanning to perform a printing operation on the medium 50. In this case, the vector scanning is, for example, scanning that moves relative to the medium 50 while continuously ejecting curable ink.

  The vector scanning may be, for example, a scanning operation that moves the dispenser 14 along a shape of a preset graphic. More specifically, causing the dispenser 14 to perform vector scanning, for example, moving the dispenser 14 along a preset linear trajectory while causing the dispenser 14 to continuously discharge ink. That is. In the vector scan, the dispenser driving unit 22 may move the dispenser 14 in an arbitrary direction on the medium 50 without being limited to the main scanning direction, for example. If comprised in this way, the operation | movement of printing by the dispenser 14 can be appropriately performed by the continuous discharge type | mold vector scanning function, for example.

  Further, in this example, the dispenser drive unit 22 further has a function of a vertical drive unit that moves the dispenser 14 in the vertical direction (Z direction in the drawing) that is a direction orthogonal to the printing surface of the medium 50. In this case, the dispenser drive unit 22 brings the dispenser 14 and the medium 50 close to each other only during a period during which vector scanning is performed (during execution of vector scanning). Further, during the period before and after the vector scan, the dispenser 14 and the medium 50 are separated from each other by a certain distance.

  More specifically, for example, the dispenser drive unit 22 brings the dispenser 14 closer to the printing surface of the medium 50 at the timing immediately before starting each time of vector scanning. Thereby, the distance between the dispenser 14 and the printing surface is adjusted to a preset distance. Further, while the dispenser 14 continuously ejects the curable ink by vector scanning, the dispenser driving unit 22 keeps the distance between the dispenser 14 and the printing surface within a preset range. Furthermore, the dispenser driving unit 22 moves the dispenser 14 in a direction away from the printing surface in accordance with the timing when the dispenser 14 finishes the operation of continuously discharging the curable ink.

  When configured in this way, for example, at the timing of starting each time of vector scanning, the dispenser driving unit 22 moves the dispenser 14 closer to the medium 50 to thereby set the tip of ink for drawing by the vector operation of that time. , Contact the surface to be printed. In addition, this causes the ink to adhere to the medium 50 at the start position (writing start portion) of the current vector scan.

  In addition, at the timing when each vector scan ends, the dispenser driving unit 22 moves the dispenser away from the printing surface to cut the ink that is continuously ejected in order to perform drawing by the vector scan of that time. I do. As a result, it is possible to prevent the ink at the end of the drawing performed in a single stroke by vector scanning from becoming a ball shape. Therefore, if comprised in this way, the operation | movement of the start and completion | finish of vector scanning by the dispenser 14 can be performed more appropriately, for example. Thereby, for example, the dispenser 14 can perform vector scanning more appropriately.

  Here, as an apparatus that performs vector scanning on a medium, a cutting apparatus (for example, a cutting plotter) that cuts the medium with a cutter is conventionally known. In addition to cutting with a cutter, a printing cutting apparatus that further performs printing with an inkjet head is known. The vector scan of the dispenser 14 in this example can be performed, for example, in the same or similar manner as the cutter scan in these apparatuses. If constituted in this way, vector scanning by dispenser 14 can be performed appropriately, for example.

  The UV light source driving unit 24 is a driving unit that causes the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 to perform ultraviolet irradiation. In this example, the UV light source driving unit 24 moves the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 that irradiates ultraviolet rays relative to the medium 50, for example, to the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 with respect to each position of the medium 50. Irradiate with ultraviolet rays. Thereby, the curable ink on the medium 50 is cured.

  The medium transport unit 26 is a mechanism unit that transports the medium 50. By transporting the medium 50, for example, the positions of the medium 50 facing the head unit 12 and the dispenser 14 are sequentially changed. If comprised in this way, the position used as the printing object in the medium 50 can be changed sequentially, for example. In addition, for example, printing can be appropriately performed on each position of the medium 50. The medium transport unit 26 may be a transport mechanism using, for example, a pulley or a timing belt. For example, when a roll-shaped medium is used as the medium 50, the medium transport unit 26 may be a drive unit that performs feeding and winding of the roll.

  In the present example, the medium transport unit 26 functions as a sub-scanning drive unit by transporting the medium 50. In this case, the sub-scanning drive unit is, for example, a drive unit that causes the head unit 12 to perform a sub-scanning operation. The sub-scanning operation is an operation of moving the head unit 12 relative to the medium 50 in the X direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction between the main scanning directions, for example. In the modification of the configuration of the printing apparatus 10, for example, the sub-scanning operation may be performed by moving the head unit 12 side.

  The control unit 28 is, for example, a CPU of the printing apparatus 10 and controls each unit of the printing apparatus 10. According to this example, it is possible to appropriately perform printing on the medium 50 using the inkjet heads 102 y to 102 k and the dispenser 14.

  Next, the printing operation performed by the printing apparatus 10 of this example will be described in more detail. FIG. 1B shows an example of a printing operation performed by the printing apparatus 10. FIG. 1C shows another example of the printing operation performed by the printing apparatus 10.

  As described above, in this example, the dispenser 14 uses ink having a higher viscosity than the ink for the inkjet heads 102y to 102k. For example, it is also conceivable to use an ink containing a filler. By using such ink, the dispenser 14 performs not only color printing but also printing for decoration that performs various decorations on the medium 50.

  More specifically, for example, in the case shown in FIG. 1B, first, color printing is performed on the medium 50 by the head unit 12 to form the color printing unit 52. And after that, it prints with the dispenser 14 on it. Thereby, the dispenser 14 discharges, for example, high-viscosity ink (hereinafter referred to as “decorative ink”) used for decoration onto at least a part of the area on the color printing unit 52, and the decorative printing unit 54. Form.

  In this case, by performing printing using the dispenser 14, for example, even when decorating ink that is difficult to be ejected by an inkjet head is used, the ink can be ejected more appropriately. Further, the ink can be appropriately fixed on the medium 50 by subsequently curing the ink by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16. For example, when a high-definition image is drawn, printing can be performed using the inkjet heads 102y to 102k instead of the dispenser 14.

  Therefore, according to this example, for example, by using both the dispenser 14 and the inkjet heads 102y to 102k, it is possible to appropriately perform printing according to the respective characteristics. This also makes it possible to appropriately perform various printing.

  Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 1C, printing by the dispenser 14 may be performed first, and then color printing by the head unit 12 may be performed. In this case, the decorative printing unit 54 is formed by discharging the decorative ink onto at least a part of the region on the medium 50 using the dispenser 14. After that, the color printing unit 52 is formed by the head unit 12 so as to overlap the decorative printing unit 54. In this case, the head unit 12 may form the color printing unit 52 on the entire surface of the medium 50, for example. In addition, for example, the color printing unit 52 may be formed by ejecting ink droplets only at positions overlapping the decorative printing unit 54.

  More specifically, as the decorative ink, for example, an ink containing a high-viscosity polymer resin that is difficult to use with an inkjet head may be used. With this configuration, for example, ink having various characteristics such as strong ink, soft ink, ink with good adhesion, or highly safe ink is appropriately used depending on the characteristics required for the decorative ink. it can. More specifically, as the decorative ink, for example, an ink containing a highly flexible urethane-based ultraviolet curable resin can be suitably used. For example, it is also conceivable to use ink containing ABS resin. Further, for example, it is conceivable to use an SBR resin, an ink containing an NBR resin, or the like.

  Further, as described above, it is possible to use an ink containing a filler as the decorative ink. As such a filler, it is conceivable to use various glossy pigments, inorganic pigments such as fluorescent pigments, and the like. Then, by using such a decorative ink, printing on an arbitrary position on the medium 50 and curing by irradiation with ultraviolet rays, it is possible to form a high-intensity decorative printing portion 54. Thereby, for example, the decoration of the texture of gold thread or silver thread can be applied to the medium 50. Furthermore, for example, by forming such a decorative printing unit 54 on or below the color printing unit 52, various glossy decorations can be applied. Therefore, according to this example, for example, printing with high decorativeness can be appropriately performed.

  In this example, for example, by using a decorative ink having a high viscosity, it is easy to cure the decorative ink while the ink is raised on the medium 50. Thereby, as the decorative printing unit 54, for example, a region raised by the curable resin can be formed on at least a part of the medium 50. Therefore, according to the present example, for example, it is possible to appropriately perform the raised printing in which a part of the medium 50 appears to rise.

  In the case shown in FIG. 1B and the like, when the raised printing is performed, for example, a part of the image printed on the color printing unit 52 is visually recognized as being raised. Therefore, if constituted in this way, printing with high decoration can be performed appropriately, for example. In this case, for example, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 cures the curable resin in the ink before the decorative ink completely penetrates into the medium 50. If constituted in this way, for example, uplift printing can be performed more appropriately.

  Further, by performing the bulge printing, for example, the medium 50 can be decorated such as doming. In this case, for example, a light-transmitting ink that does not contain a filler may be used as the decorative ink. More specifically, in this case, for example, high-viscosity clear ink may be used as the decorative ink. The clear ink is, for example, a colorless and transparent clear ink.

  In addition to the ink containing the filler and the clear color ink, for example, white or a specific color ink may be used as the decoration ink. It is also conceivable to perform printing in a flat form using a decorative ink without necessarily curing in a raised state.

  Next, the printing operation performed in this example will be described more specifically. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation of performing printing on the medium 50 using the head unit 12 and the dispenser 14, and when performing high-intensity decorative printing, which is printing with high-intensity decoration. An example of operations performed sequentially will be described.

  FIG. 2A shows an example of an operation in a printing stage in which color printing is performed by the head unit 12. This printing stage is an example of an inkjet printing stage in which printing is performed using an inkjet head. As described with reference to FIG. 1, in this example, color printing is performed on the medium 50 by causing the inkjet heads 102 y to 102 k (see FIG. 1) included in the head unit 12 to perform a main scanning operation. Do. More specifically, for example, the main printing operation is performed with the direction indicated by the arrow in the figure as the moving direction (scanning direction) of the head unit 12, and the color printing unit 52, which is a color printed region on the medium 50. Form.

  FIG. 2B shows an example of the operation in the ejection stage in which the decorating ink is ejected toward the medium 50 by the dispenser 14. In the illustrated case, after performing color printing by the head unit 12, the ink for decoration is ejected by the dispenser 14 to a preset position on the medium 50. More specifically, for example, the decorative printing unit 54 is formed by discharging decorative ink on a partial region of the color printing unit 52.

  Here, as the decorating ink, for example, a high-viscosity ultraviolet curable ink containing a metallic pigment, a pearl pigment, or the like as a filler is used. Moreover, it is preferable that this filler is a leaf-like filler (leaf type particle), for example. If comprised in this way, the decorating ink suitable for high-intensity decorative printing can be used appropriately.

  FIG. 2C shows an example of an operation in a curing stage in which the decorative ink on the medium 50 is cured by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16. After the decorating ink is discharged by the dispenser 14, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 irradiates ultraviolet rays. This also cures the decorative ink on the medium 50. If comprised in this way, high-intensity decorative printing can be performed appropriately.

  Here, in the case of using a decorative ink containing a leaf-like filler, it is desirable to increase the orientation of the filler in order to appropriately increase the luminance. In order to improve the orientation of the filler, for example, it is preferable to secure a certain amount of time until the ink is cured after the decoration ink is discharged onto the medium 50. Therefore, when performing high-intensity decorative printing, it is preferable to wait for a certain period of time after the ink for decoration has been ejected by the dispenser 14 and then irradiate the ultraviolet rays by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16. If comprised in this way, high-intensity decorative printing can be performed more appropriately.

  In this case, for example, if the viscosity of the decorative ink is low, the decorative ink may permeate the medium 50 before the filler is sufficiently oriented on the medium 50. In particular, for example, when the fibrous medium 50 is used, if the viscosity of the ink is low, the ink may penetrate into the medium 50 in a short time. In such a case, the orientation of the filler cannot be improved even if the time until the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 is irradiated is increased, and the print quality may be deteriorated.

  On the other hand, when the decorative ink is ejected by the dispenser 14 as in this example, the viscosity of the decorative ink can be sufficiently increased. Therefore, according to this example, it is possible to appropriately ensure the time for the filler to orient on the medium 50. Thereby, the quality of printing can be improved appropriately.

  In this case, by increasing the viscosity of the decorative ink, it is possible to appropriately prevent the filler from being biased due to, for example, precipitation in the decorative ink. Thereby, for example, decorative ink containing a filler can be more appropriately discharged. Further, when the dispenser 14 is used, it is possible to use a filler having a larger size than when using an inkjet head, for example.

  Therefore, when decorating ink is used using the dispenser 14 as in this example, for example, more various fillers can be used appropriately. In addition, for example, when a glossy filler is used, it is possible to decorate with higher brightness by using a large filler. Therefore, according to this example, for example, various printing can be more appropriately performed on the medium 50.

  Here, FIG. 2 shows an operation when the decorative printing unit 54 is formed on the color printing unit 52 as an example of the printing operation. In another example of the printing operation, for example, as described with reference to FIG. 1C or the like, the decorative printing unit 54 is formed first, and the color printing unit 52 is formed thereon. Good.

  In some printing applications, for example, it may be desired to use an ink having a lower viscosity as the decorative ink. In this case, the penetration of the ink into the medium 50 is accelerated, and there is a case where the time for orienting the filler cannot be ensured simply by using the dispenser 14.

  Therefore, in such a case, for example, an undercoat layer (undercoat layer) for suppressing ink permeation may be formed under the region where the decorative printing unit 54 is formed. In this case, for example, the base layer is formed with ink (permeation suppression ink) that suppresses permeation of ink into the medium 50.

  Further, depending on the purpose of printing and required quality, for example, it may be desired to fix a filler, which is a fine particle for decoration, only on the surface of the medium 50. In such a case, for example, after the decorative ink is ejected by the dispenser 14, after waiting for a certain time, for example, after at least a part of the decorative ink has permeated the medium 50, the ultraviolet light may be irradiated.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating another example of an operation for performing printing on the medium 50 using the head unit 12 and the dispenser 14, and is sequentially performed when at least a part of the decorative ink penetrates the medium 50. An example of the operation is shown. Except as described below, the printing operation shown in FIG. 3 is the same as or similar to the printing operation shown in FIG.

  FIGS. 3A and 3B show an example of operations in the printing stage and the ejection stage performed in this case. Even when at least a part of the decorative ink penetrates the medium 50, the operations in the printing stage and the ejection stage are the same as or similar to those described in relation to FIGS. 2A and 2B, for example. Can be done. In FIGS. 3B to 3D, in order to clarify the characteristics of the printing operation, the filler 202 is simplified in the interior of the decorative printing unit 54 formed with the decorative ink. It is shown. The filler 202 may be a leaf-like filler such as a metallic pigment.

  FIG. 3C shows an example of the operation in the standby stage in which the operation waits for a certain time after performing the operation in the discharge stage. When at least a part of the decoration ink penetrates into the medium 50, for example, after the decoration ink adheres to the medium 50, the irradiation with ultraviolet rays is not performed until at least a preset waiting time has elapsed. In this case, the standby time is set in consideration of the time for fixing the filler 202 to the surface of the medium 50, for example. When configured in this way, for example, the filler 202 can be precipitated on the surface of the medium 50 before the decorative ink is cured. Thereby, for example, the orientation of the filler 202 can be improved more appropriately. Therefore, if comprised in this way, higher-intensity printing can be performed appropriately, for example.

  In this case, at least a part of the decorative ink is allowed to penetrate the medium 50 during the standby time. Therefore, if comprised in this way, the decorative printing part 54 can be made more flat, for example. Thereby, for example, the surface of the medium 50 can be decorated with a more natural impression.

  FIG. 3D shows an example of the operation of the curing stage performed in this case. In this case, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 cures the decorative ink in a state where the filler 202 is fixed on the surface of the medium 50 by irradiating the ultraviolet ray after the standby time has elapsed. Also when comprised in this way, high-intensity decorative printing etc. can be performed appropriately, for example. This also makes it possible to appropriately perform various printing on the medium 50.

  Further, when it is desired to suppress the penetration of the decorative ink as much as possible without penetrating the decorative ink into the medium 50, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. It can also be used. FIG. 4 shows an example of operations that are sequentially performed when uplift printing is performed using the permeation suppression ink. Except as described below, the printing operation shown in FIG. 4 is the same as or similar to the printing operation shown in FIG.

  FIG. 4A shows an example of the operation of the permeation suppression ink application step for applying the permeation suppression ink to the medium. In this case, the application of the permeation suppression ink is performed, for example, by ejecting the permeation suppression ink onto at least a part of the area of the medium 50. Further, the permeation suppression unit 56 is formed in at least a part of the medium 50 by discharging the permeation suppression ink.

  In addition, it is conceivable that the permeation suppression ink is discharged using, for example, an ink jet head for the permeation suppression ink. The permeation suppression ink may be applied by other methods without using the ink jet head. For example, it is conceivable to apply the permeation suppression ink using a spray or the like. Further, the penetration inhibiting ink may be applied using a dispenser for penetration inhibiting ink.

  FIGS. 4B and 4C show an example of the operation of the discharge stage and the curing stage performed in this case. In this case, in the ejection stage, the decoration ink is ejected to at least a part of the permeation suppression unit 56, which is a region where the permeation suppression ink is applied in the permeation suppression ink application stage. If comprised in this way, it can suppress more appropriately that the ink for decorating penetrates the medium 50, for example. Thereby, for example, the state where the ink for decoration before curing is raised on the medium 50 can be appropriately maintained.

  Therefore, in this case, in the curing stage, ultraviolet light is irradiated to the decorative printing unit 54 that keeps the raised state. Moreover, thereby, the decorative ink is cured in a raised state. Therefore, when configured in this manner, for example, even when the medium 50 in which the decorative ink easily permeates is used, the raised printing can be performed more appropriately.

  As the permeation suppression ink, for example, it is conceivable to use a predetermined color ink or the like. For example, it is conceivable to use clear or white ink as the permeation suppression ink. In this case, for example, an ink layer is formed in a region serving as a base of the decorative ink by applying ink of a predetermined color to the medium 50 with an inkjet head. If comprised in this way, the penetration | invasion of the ink for decorating can be suppressed appropriately, for example.

  For convenience of illustration, FIG. 4 illustrates only the operation of performing printing by the dispenser 14. However, in still another example of the printing operation, for example, the operation of the printing stage may be further performed using the head unit 12 before or after the operation of the discharging stage performed using the dispenser 14. In this case, for example, at least part of the color ink ejected in the printing stage may be used as the permeation suppression ink.

  As described above, according to this example, for example, even when decorating ink that is difficult to be ejected by an inkjet head is used, the ink can be appropriately ejected by the dispenser 14. Further, the decorative ink can be appropriately fixed to the medium 50 by irradiating ultraviolet rays thereafter.

  Moreover, in this example, the printing apparatus 10 (refer FIG. 1) is further provided with not only the dispenser 14 but the inkjet head. Therefore, using both the dispenser 14 and the inkjet head, it is possible to appropriately perform printing according to the respective characteristics.

  In addition, by using the dispenser 14 and the inkjet head, for example, it is possible to decorate an arbitrary portion of an image printed by the inkjet head with a decoration ink. Further, in this case, since it is possible to use a decorative ink in which a filler is dispersed in the dispenser 14, for example, the decorative ink can be appropriately fixed without forming an overcoat layer or the like. Can do. Moreover, since large particles, for example, of the order of mm can be used as fillers for decorating inks, for example, large metal fine particles, fluorescent particles, or the like can be used as fillers, and high-luminance printing can be performed appropriately. Moreover, since a decorative ink with a high viscosity can be used, it can perform more appropriately also about a bulge printing. As described above, according to this example, for example, various printing can be appropriately performed on the medium 50.

  Subsequently, various features relating to the configuration of this example, possible modifications, and the like will be described in more detail. First, the ink used in this example will be described.

  As described above, in this example, as the decorative ink, for example, an ultraviolet curable ink is used. On the other hand, in the modified example of the configuration of the printing apparatus 10, as the decorative ink including a curable resin, for example, a two-component curable ink or an ink including a resin whose hardness changes according to a temperature change ( Hereinafter, it may be considered to use a heat reaction curable ink). In this case, it is conceivable to use, for example, a known ink for forming doming as the two-component curable ink. Further, as the thermoreactive curable ink, for example, it is conceivable to use an ink containing a thermoplastic resin or a thermosetting resin. Even when such inks are used, for example, various printing can be appropriately performed by curing the ink according to the type of the decorative ink.

  Further, for example, when the decorative ink is infiltrated into the medium 50 as described with reference to FIG. 4 or the like, the monomer in the decorative ink remains in an uncured state depending on the curing method. Problems such as residual monomer may occur. In addition, depending on the type of monomer, the influence of residual monomer or the like on the environment may be a problem. Therefore, in such a case, for example, it is conceivable to use a cationic curable ultraviolet curable ink as a decorative ink. Further, for example, it is also possible to use a two-component curable ink, a heat reaction curable ink, or the like instead of the ultraviolet curable ink. If comprised in this way, the influence on the environment of a residual monomer can be suppressed appropriately, for example.

  On the other hand, when a two-component curable ink is used as the decoration ink, it is necessary to discharge the main agent and the curing agent separately, which may complicate the configuration of the apparatus. For example, when the viscosity of the decorative ink is increased, the main agent and the curing agent are less likely to be mixed, and it may be difficult to cure appropriately.

  Also, when using a heat-reactive curable ink, the time until the ink is cured tends to be longer than when using an ultraviolet curable ink. For example, it usually takes a certain amount of time to change the temperature of the ink or medium. As a result, it can be considered that the time until the ink is cured becomes longer. Therefore, in this case, even if a decorative ink having a high viscosity is used, the ink may be flattened before being cured, and the raised printing may not be appropriately performed. Further, the ink may penetrate into the medium 50 before the ink is cured.

  In addition, for example, when a thermosetting ink is used, a step of heating the medium 50 is required, so that the medium 50 may be damaged by heat. In this case, for example, the medium 50 may be heated using an apparatus (for example, an oven) different from the printing apparatus. In this case, the medium 50 is moved in a state where the decorative ink is uncured, and the medium 50 may be easily contaminated.

  On the other hand, when ultraviolet curable ink is used as the decorative ink as in this example, it is not necessary to separately discharge the main agent and the curing agent, for example. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately prevent the device configuration from becoming complicated. Moreover, even when the viscosity of the decorating ink is high, the ink can be appropriately and sufficiently cured.

  In this case, since the ink can be quickly cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays, for example, while the state where the decoration ink is raised on the medium 50 is appropriately decorated. The ink can be cured. In addition, even when using a medium 50 that easily penetrates ink such as textiles, the decorative ink can be appropriately cured before the ink penetrates. Further, in this case, since it is not necessary to heat the medium 50 to a high temperature, the medium 50 is not damaged by the heat. In addition, for example, since the ink ejection and the ultraviolet irradiation can be performed by the same apparatus, the decorative ink can be used without moving the medium 50 on which the decorative ink before curing is adhered more than necessary. Can be cured properly. Accordingly, it is possible to appropriately prevent the decorative ink from rubbing carelessly during the movement of the medium 50 and the medium 50 from becoming dirty. Therefore, according to this example, it can be said that various printing can be appropriately performed also in this point.

  In addition, when an ultraviolet curable ink is used as a decorative ink as in this example, it is conceivable to use an ultraviolet curable ink as an ink for an inkjet head in the head portion 12. If comprised in this way, the ink for inkjet heads can also be hardened appropriately, for example using the ultraviolet irradiation part 16 used in order to harden the decoration ink. In this case, for example, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the inkjet head in the main scanning direction in the head unit 12, and the ultraviolet irradiation unit 16 may be moved together with the inkjet head during the main scanning operation.

  Next, various printing modes that can be performed using the printing apparatus 10 of this example will be described in more detail. As described above, the dispenser 14 performs raised printing on the medium 50 by, for example, ejecting ink with high viscosity. If comprised in this way, the printing (emphasized stereoscopic effect print) which emphasizes a one part area | region three-dimensionally can be performed appropriately, for example.

  More specifically, for example, it is conceivable to perform printing by the head unit 12 and raised printing by the dispenser 14 on a medium 50 such as a T-shirt. In this case, the dispenser 14 performs raised printing by, for example, discharging clear ink. Moreover, it is preferable that the dispenser 14 discharges ink with the resolution | decomposability comparable as the resolution of modeling by 3D printer, for example. If comprised in this way, the image printed by the head part 12 can be expressed by emphasizing appropriately, for example.

  Further, the dispenser 14 may perform bulge printing so as to overlap with a partial area of the image printed by the head unit 12. If comprised in this way, the printing which emphasized a part of image can be performed appropriately, for example.

  In addition, as such emphasizing three-dimensional prints, more specifically, for example, printing that puts a company name or logo on clothing such as work clothes, printing that puts a team name or number on a sports uniform, etc. Conceivable. In addition, for example, it is also conceivable to print characters and patterns on the cover of a name tag or a mobile terminal (for example, a mobile phone or a smartphone) by emphasized stereoscopic effect printing. Further, for example, when printing a wood grain pattern, it is also conceivable that only the wood grain portion is raised.

  Further, as described above, in the dispenser 14, various decorating inks such as metallic inks can be suitably used. In this case, various metallic patterns with high brightness can be printed on the medium 50. More specifically, for example, it is conceivable to print metallic characters or the like on a medium 50 of clothing such as a T-shirt. In addition, by performing uplift printing using metallic ink, for example, embossed metallic printing may be performed.

  Here, as a method of performing metallic tone printing on the medium 50 by a method different from the present example, for example, a primer layer is formed on the medium with a paint having adhesiveness at the time of curing or drying, and then on the medium. A method of adhering a glossy material such as a decorative metal foil or metal powder is also conceivable. However, in the case of such a method, it is necessary to put the glossy material in a separate step after the formation of the primer layer. In order to prevent the glossy material from peeling off, it is necessary to form an overcoat layer as a protective layer after bonding. Therefore, in this case, the process becomes complicated, and the printing cost may increase.

  As another method, for example, a sheet containing glittering particles is prepared separately from the medium, an image is printed on the sheet, and the image on the sheet is transferred to the medium by thermal transfer or the like. Is also possible. However, in this case, it is difficult to partially decorate only a specific area. In addition, since a transfer process is required, the printing cost may increase.

  In order to perform printing by a simpler method, for example, it may be possible to eject metallic ink or the like with an inkjet head without using the dispenser 14. However, when an inkjet head is used, it is necessary to use small-sized particles that can be discharged from a nozzle as a filler such as a metallic pigment. For example, when a metallic pigment is used, if the size is small, the glossiness obtained is lowered. In addition, in the case where, for example, fluorescent particles or the like are used as the filler, it is considered that the luminance of fluorescence decreases as the size decreases. Furthermore, when using an inkjet head, it is necessary to lower the viscosity of the ink. Therefore, when bulge printing is to be performed, for example, laminated printing in which a large number of layers are stacked is necessary. In addition, when a medium such as a textile product that easily penetrates liquid is used, it is difficult to perform high ridge printing.

  On the other hand, in this example, by using the dispenser 14 as described above, it is possible to use, for example, a large filler (metallic pigment or the like). This also makes it possible to appropriately perform high-intensity metallic printing by a simple process. Further, since it is possible to use an ink having a high viscosity, for example, even when a medium such as a textile product is used, the raised printing can be appropriately performed as necessary.

  Therefore, according to this example, it is possible to more appropriately perform printing for performing various decorations on the medium. More specifically, for example, by using ink of metallic color, pearl color, fluorescent color, clear color, white color, or various color colors in the dispenser 14, depending on the purpose of printing on the medium 50, Various images, characters and patterns can be printed in various forms such as gold thread or silver thread. In addition, bulge printing can be performed as necessary.

  Further, the configuration and operation of the printing apparatus 10 are not limited to the configuration and operation described above, and various modifications may be further considered. Accordingly, further modifications will be described.

  In the configuration described above, the case where printing is directly performed on the medium 50 such as a textile product by the head unit 12 or the dispenser 14 has been mainly described. However, in order to improve the adhesion of the ink to the medium 50, a primer ink may be used to form a base ink layer on the medium 50. In this case, for example, an ink jet head for primer ink is further used, and the medium 50 is first printed with the primer ink. Then, printing is further performed on the ink layer formed of the primer ink by another inkjet head and the dispenser 14 in the head unit 12.

  In order to further enhance the glossiness of the area printed with the decorative ink, for example, it is conceivable to use a roller for smoothing the ink layer. In this case, for example, after printing by the dispenser 14, the decorative ink on the medium 50 is smoothed using a roller.

  For example, when color printing is performed by the head unit 12 and printing by the dispenser 14 is performed, it is preferable to improve the smoothness of the ink layer formed by the head unit 12 as much as possible. Therefore, in this case, for example, it may be possible to make the density of the ink on the medium 50 uniform by using clear ink in addition to colored ink for color printing (for example, ink of each color of YMCK). More specifically, for example, it may be possible to equalize the amount of ink per unit area by ejecting clear ink droplets onto an area where the density of colored ink is low on the medium 50. It is done. In this case, printing with colored ink and printing with clear ink may be performed simultaneously in one main scanning operation. Further, for example, it is conceivable to perform printing with clear ink after performing printing with colored ink and before ejecting ink with the dispenser 14.

  As described above, in this example, the dispenser 14 ejects ink onto the medium 50 by vector scanning. In this case, the movement of the dispenser 14 is similar to the movement of the cutter in a cutting device such as a cutting plotter. Therefore, in the printing apparatus 10, it can be considered that the dispenser 14 is configured to be exchangeable with, for example, a cutter. It is also conceivable that a cutter is further provided in addition to the dispenser 14. If comprised in these, for example, about printing device 10, as a device (printer & cut machine) which performs printing by an inkjet head, and cutting (printer & cut machine), and also a device (print & cut & dispenser machine) which also performs printing by dispenser It can also be used. Accordingly, for example, the printing apparatus 10 can be used as a high-function printer that can be switched by three functions.

  Moreover, in the above, the case where only one dispenser 14 was used was mainly demonstrated. However, the printing apparatus 10 may include a plurality of dispensers 14. In this case, each of the plurality of dispensers 14 may eject different colors of ink. If comprised in this way, for example, more various printing can be performed appropriately.

  In addition, the dispenser 14 is not limited to a configuration that performs vector scanning (a dispenser having a continuous ejection type vector scanning function), and for example, a dispenser 14 that performs raster scanning (a dispenser having an intermittent ejection type raster scanning function) may be used. Conceivable. In this case, for example, the dispenser 14 performs a printing operation by moving relative to the medium 50 while intermittently discharging decorative ink.

  Note that the raster scanning is a scanning operation in which the dispenser 14 is moved so as to draw a raster image expressed by a sequence of dotted pixels, for example. More specifically, causing the dispenser 14 to perform raster scanning is, for example, moving the dispenser in a preset scanning direction while causing the dispenser to intermittently discharge ink.

  Further, when printing is performed by an inkjet method, the inkjet head usually draws an image by raster scanning. For example, in this example, the inkjet heads 102y to 102k in the head unit 12 draw an image by performing a main scanning operation which is an example of raster scanning. In this case, the dispenser drive unit 22 may cause the dispenser 14 to perform raster scanning, for example, by performing the same or similar control as the head drive unit 20. More specifically, the dispenser driving unit 22 may cause the dispenser 14 to perform a main scanning operation together with the inkjet heads 102y to 102k, for example.

  Moreover, in the above, the case where printing was mainly performed on the medium 50 such as a textile product was described. However, the printing apparatus 10 may use a medium 50 other than a textile product. For example, bump printing or various decorative printing may be performed on the medium 50 such as plastic or ceramic. Even in such a case, according to this example, various printing can be appropriately performed.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated using embodiment, the technical scope of this invention is not limited to the range as described in the said embodiment. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications or improvements can be added to the above embodiment. It is apparent from the description of the scope of claims that embodiments with such changes or improvements can be included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  The present invention can be suitably used for a printing apparatus, for example.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Printing device, 12 ... Head part, 14 ... Dispenser, 16 ... Ultraviolet irradiation part, 18 ... Medium holding part, 20 ... Head drive part, 22 ... Dispenser drive , 24... UV light source drive unit, 26... Medium transport unit, 28... Control unit, 50... Medium, 52. ... Permeation suppression part, 102y-k ... Inkjet head, 202 ... Filler

Claims (9)

A printing device for printing on a medium,
An inkjet head that ejects ink droplets toward the medium by an inkjet method;
A printing apparatus comprising: a dispenser that discharges high-viscosity ink, which is ink having higher viscosity than ink used in the inkjet head, toward the medium.   The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the high-viscosity ink is an ink containing a curable resin that is cured according to a predetermined condition.   The printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the curable resin is an ultraviolet curable resin that is cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays.   The dispenser discharges the high-viscosity ink toward the medium by performing vector scanning that moves relative to the medium while continuously discharging the high-viscosity ink. Item 4. The printing apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 3. Further comprising an up-down direction drive unit for moving the dispenser in the up-down direction which is a direction perpendicular to the printing surface of the medium;
While the dispenser continuously discharges the high-viscosity ink, the vertical drive unit maintains the distance between the dispenser and the printing surface within a preset range,
The vertical drive unit moves the dispenser in a direction away from the printing surface in accordance with a timing when the dispenser continuously finishes the operation of discharging the high-viscosity ink. Item 5. The printing apparatus according to Item 4.   The dispenser discharges the high-viscosity ink toward the medium by performing raster scanning that moves relative to the medium while intermittently discharging the high-viscosity ink. Item 4. The printing apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 3.   The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the high-viscosity ink is an ink containing a filler. The high-viscosity ink is an ink containing a curable resin that cures according to predetermined conditions,
The printing apparatus further includes a curing unit that cures the curable resin contained in the high-viscosity ink,
The curing means forms a region raised by the curable resin in at least a part of the medium by curing the curable resin in a state where the high viscosity ink is raised on the medium. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: A printing method for printing on a medium,
An inkjet head that ejects ink droplets toward the medium by an inkjet method;
A printing method, wherein printing is performed using a dispenser that discharges high-viscosity ink, which is ink having higher viscosity than ink used in the inkjet head, toward the medium.

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