Patent Description:
There is <CIT> as the related art regarding the field of the invention. <CIT> discloses a stop processing method for an ink jet recording apparatus. The ink jet recording apparatus includes an ink supply flow passage that is connected between an ink container and a nozzle and supplies ink stored in the ink container to the nozzle, a solvent supply flow passage that is connected between a solvent container and the nozzle and supplies a solvent to the nozzle, a recovery flow passage that is connected between a gutter for recovering ink not used for printing and the ink container and recovers liquid recovered by the gutter to the ink container, and a suction flow passage that is connected between an inflow portion of the nozzle and the ink container and guides liquid to the ink container. When the supply of ink to the nozzle is to be stopped from a print state where ink is being jetted from the nozzle, the stop processing method includes a cleaning step for the suction flow passage that supplies a solvent to the suction flow passage from the solvent supply flow passage, a residual liquid-suction step of sending a solvent present in the suction flow passage to the ink container by sucking outside air into the suction flow passage from the nozzle to make air flow in the suction flow passage, and a finish-cleaning step of making a solvent flow into the suction flow passage from the solvent supply flow passage in a state where a solvent present in the suction flow passage is replaced with air.

Further, there is <CIT>. <CIT> discloses an ink jet recording apparatus including a nozzle that is used to perform printing on a medium to be printed by jetting ink, a print head that receives deflecting electrodes polarizing the jetted ink by an electrostatic force, and an ink suction unit that sucks floating ink by an electrostatic force.

In <CIT>, it is based on the premise that the inside of the nozzle and the inside of the suction flow passage are to be cleaned. However, the cleaning of ink adhering to the outside of the nozzle and the like is not considered. That is, in a case where a distance between the print head and a medium to be printed is short in the ink jet recording apparatus, ink is splashed to the print head when colliding with the medium to be printed and the splashed ink are attracted to the deflecting electrodes provided in the print head since being charged with electricity. For this reason, there is a concern that the deflecting electrodes may be contaminated. Accordingly, there is a possibility that print quality may deteriorate in a case where the deflecting electrodes are left in this state.

Since floating ink is sucked by an electrostatic force in <CIT>, the contamination of the inner and outer portions of the print head can be suppressed. However, since the suppression of the contamination is not perfect, some kind of cleaning is necessary.

Accordingly, when the ejection of ink from the nozzle is stopped in the ink jet recording apparatus, a worker handling the apparatus has cleaned main components, such as the nozzle and the deflecting electrodes provided in the print head, by using a cleaning bottle that stores a solvent (operation for cleaning a print head). However, this operation for cleaning a print head has a problem that working hours required for the operation for cleaning a print head or the degree of removal of ink dirt after the completion of the operation for cleaning a print head may vary according to the level of skill of a worker.

Further: <CIT> shows a cleaning system for a continuous ink jet printer which includes a first solvent supply conduit connected to a solvent source for conveying solvent through a supply opening and onto the front face of the print head.

<CIT> shows a print head cleaning device arranged on a nozzle boss which sprays the nozzle surface with solvent in order to clean it from ink residue.

<CIT> shows a method of cleaning a print head assembly. A cleaning unit includes a fluid chamber, a fluid intake port and a fluid exit port. A solvent is introduced into the fluid chamber to contact the print head. The solvent is allowed to clean the print head and then the solvent is removed from the chamber.

An object of the invention is to provide an ink jet recording apparatus that can perform a stable operation for cleaning a print head regardless of the level of skill of a worker.

The invention has been made in consideration of the related art and the problem, and an aspect of the invention provides an ink jet recording apparatus.

The above problem is solved by the subject matter of the appended claims. In particular, it is possible to provide an ink jet recording apparatus that can perform a stable operation for cleaning a print head regardless of the level of skill of a worker.

Embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings.

A state where an ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment is used will be described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a state where the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment is used, and <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a state where a print head <NUM> is mounted on a head cleaning unit <NUM> in the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment.

First, as illustrated in <FIG>, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> includes an ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM>, a print head <NUM> that is connected to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through a conduit (for a print head) <NUM>, a head cleaning unit <NUM> that is connected to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through a conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM>, and a separated panel <NUM> that is connected to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through a cable (for a separated panel) <NUM>.

The ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is installed on a production line in a factory where, for example, articles of food, beverages, or the like are produced, and the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> is installed at a place where a space required for regular maintenance work and the like can be ensured. The print head <NUM> is fixed to a print head-fixing bracket <NUM> installed near a belt conveyor <NUM>, and is installed at a position where the print head <NUM> can be close to print targets 12A and 12B to be conveyed on the production line, such as the belt conveyor <NUM>, in the direction of an arrow X.

The ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is adapted to perform printing as follows. A control unit <NUM> (not illustrated) provided in the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> controls the amount of electricity to be applied to ink particles 59B to be jetted from a nozzle <NUM> assembled to the print head <NUM> and the timing when the ink particles are to be charged with electricity; and the ink particles 59B, which are charged with electricity and polarized, are attached to the print target (which is being printed) 15B while the print target (which is not yet printed) 15A passes near the print head <NUM>. Further, a head cover <NUM> and a protective cover <NUM> are mounted on the print head <NUM> to protect components provided in the print head <NUM>, and the head cover <NUM> can be attached and detached by a fixing knob <NUM>.

The head cleaning unit <NUM> is installed near the print head <NUM>, and a head cleaning unit-fixing jig A (for a conveyor) 91B assembled to the belt conveyor <NUM> and a head cleaning unit-fixing jig B <NUM> assembled to the head cleaning unit <NUM> are fitted to each other, so that the head cleaning unit <NUM> is fixed. Further, the head cleaning unit <NUM> includes a print head-insertion portion <NUM> that is used to insert the print head <NUM> into the head cleaning unit <NUM>, and a print head-fixing part <NUM> that is used to fix the print head <NUM> to the head cleaning unit <NUM>. Since the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> includes a head cleaning unit-fixing jig A (for a body) 91A that is used to fix the head cleaning unit <NUM>, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is adapted to be also used in a state where the head cleaning unit <NUM> is detached from the head cleaning unit-fixing jig A (for a conveyor) 91B and is attached to the head cleaning unit-fixing jig A (for a body) 91A.

Furthermore, the head cleaning unit <NUM> includes a start button <NUM> that is used to start cleaning processing for the print head <NUM>, a stop button <NUM> that is used to stop the cleaning processing for the print head <NUM>, and a display part <NUM> that allows a worker to recognize alarms, such as a confirmation message, a warning, and an abnormality. Moreover, a cleaning liquid bottle <NUM>, which stores cleaning liquid 69C having been used to clean the head, is assembled to the lower portion of the head cleaning unit <NUM>.

Further, the separated panel <NUM> is installed near the print head <NUM> and the head cleaning unit <NUM> so as to be easily operated by a worker, and is fixed to the belt conveyor <NUM>. Since the belt conveyor <NUM> is supported by fixing posts <NUM> so as to be installed at a position higher than a floor surface, the belt conveyor <NUM> is positioned at a height that is very suitable in a case where a user operates an operation display portion <NUM> of the separated panel <NUM> or mounts the head cleaning unit <NUM>. The separated panel <NUM> and the head cleaning unit <NUM> are fixed to the belt conveyor <NUM> in this embodiment. However, in the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment, the separated panel <NUM> and the head cleaning unit <NUM> can be freely attached to a place that allows a user to easily operate the separated panel <NUM> and the head cleaning unit <NUM>.

Next, a state where the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> in the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG>. The print head <NUM> is inserted into the print head-insertion portion <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> from the end of the print head <NUM> in a state where the head cover <NUM> is detached. Then, the print head-fixing part <NUM> and the fixing knob <NUM> are fitted to each other, so that the print head <NUM> is fixed to and mounted on the head cleaning unit <NUM>. The print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> as described above, so that the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment can clean the print head <NUM>.

Meanwhile, it is preferable that the length of the conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM> connecting the head cleaning unit <NUM> to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> is equal to or longer than the length of the conduit (for a print head) <NUM> connecting the print head <NUM> to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM>. The reason for this is to ensure the degree of freedom in arranging the head cleaning unit <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating the passage configuration of the entire ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment.

First, the ink supply passage of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described. In <FIG>, the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> is provided with a main ink container <NUM> that stores ink 59A to circulate, and the main ink container <NUM> is provided with a liquid level sensor 31A that detects whether or not liquid stored in the main ink container <NUM> reaches a reference liquid level corresponding to the amount of liquid appropriate in a case where liquid is to be stored in the main ink container <NUM>.

The main ink container <NUM> is connected to a viscometer <NUM> through a passage <NUM> to find out the viscosity of the ink 59A stored in the main ink container <NUM>. The viscometer <NUM> is connected to a solenoid valve (for supply) <NUM>, which opens and closes a passage, through a passage <NUM>, and the solenoid valve (for supply) <NUM> is connected to a pump (for supply) <NUM>, which is used to suck and pump the ink 59A, through a passage <NUM>. Further, the pump (for supply) <NUM> is connected to a filter (for supply) <NUM>, which removes foreign materials mixed in the ink 59A, through a passage <NUM>.

The filter (for supply) <NUM> is connected to a pressure regulating valve <NUM>, which regulates the pressure of the ink 59A pumped from the pump (for supply) <NUM> to proper pressure, through a passage <NUM>, and the pressure regulating valve <NUM> is connected to a pressure sensor <NUM>, which measures the pressure of the ink 59A to be supplied to the nozzle <NUM>, through a passage <NUM>. The pressure sensor <NUM> is connected to a switching valve <NUM>, which is provided in the print head <NUM> and is used to control whether or not to supply the ink 59A to the nozzle <NUM>, through a passage <NUM> passing through the conduit (for a print head) <NUM>.

The switching valve <NUM> is connected to the nozzle <NUM>, which includes an outlet through which the ink 59A is to be jetted, through a passage <NUM>. Meanwhile, since the switching valve <NUM> is a three-way solenoid valve and the passage <NUM> for the supply of ink and a cleaning passage <NUM> are connected to the switching valve <NUM>, the switching valve <NUM> can switch the supply of ink and a solvent to the nozzle <NUM>. Charging electrodes <NUM> that are used to apply a predetermined quantity of electric charge to the ink particles 59B, deflecting electrodes <NUM> that are used to polarized ink particles 59B to be used for printing, and a gutter <NUM> that is used to capture ink particles 59B flying straight without being charged with electricity and being polarized since being not used for printing, are arranged in the straight direction of the outlet of the nozzle <NUM>.

Next, the ink recovery passage of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described. In <FIG>, the gutter <NUM> is connected to a filter (for recovery) <NUM>, which is disposed in the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> and removes foreign materials mixed in the ink, through a passage <NUM> passing through the conduit (for a print head) <NUM>, and the filter (for recovery) <NUM> is connected to a solenoid valve (for recovery) <NUM>, which opens and closes a passage, through a passage <NUM>.

The solenoid valve (for recovery) <NUM> is connected to a pump (for recovery) <NUM>, which sucks the ink particles 59B captured by the gutter <NUM>, through a passage <NUM>. The pump (for recovery) <NUM> is connected to the main ink container <NUM> through a passage <NUM>. Further, the main ink container <NUM> is connected to an exhaust passage <NUM>, and the exhaust passage <NUM> is adapted to communicate with the outside of the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM>.

Next, the ink circulation passage of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described. The nozzle <NUM> provided in the print head <NUM> is connected to a solenoid valve (for circulation) <NUM>, which is provided in the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> and opens and closes a flow passage, through a passage <NUM> passing through the conduit (for a print head) <NUM> other than the passage <NUM> for the supply of ink. The solenoid valve (for circulation) <NUM> is connected to a pump (for circulation) <NUM>, which sucks ink jetted from the nozzle <NUM>, through a passage <NUM>. Further, the pump (for circulation) <NUM> is adapted to be connected to the main ink container <NUM> through a passage <NUM>.

Next, the solvent supply passage of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described. In <FIG>, the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> is provided with a solvent container <NUM> that stores a solvent 69A to be used for the supply of solvent to the main ink container <NUM>, the cleaning of the nozzle, or the cleaning of the head, and the solvent container <NUM> is connected to a pump (for solvent) <NUM>, which is used to suck and pump the solvent, through a passage <NUM>. The pump (for solvent) <NUM> is connected to a branch passage <NUM> through a passage <NUM> to change the supply destination of the solvent 69A according to the purpose. The branch passage <NUM> is connected to a solenoid valve (for the supply of solvent) <NUM> through a passage <NUM> on the solvent supply passage to open and close a flow passage, and the solenoid valve (for the supply of solvent) <NUM> is connected to the main ink container <NUM> through a passage <NUM>.

Next, the nozzle cleaning passage of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described. In <FIG>, the pump (for solvent) <NUM> is connected to a solenoid valve (for the cleaning of a nozzle) <NUM>, which is used to open and close a flow passage, through a passage <NUM> and the branch passage <NUM> provided on the passage <NUM>. Further, the solenoid valve (for the cleaning of a nozzle) <NUM> is connected to a filter (for the cleaning of a nozzle) <NUM>, which removes foreign materials mixed in the solvent 69A, through a passage <NUM>, and the filter (for the cleaning of a nozzle) <NUM> is adapted to be connected to the switching valve <NUM>, which is provided in the print head <NUM> and is used to control whether or not to send the solvent 69A to be used for cleaning to the nozzle <NUM>, through a passage <NUM>.

Next, the head cleaning passage of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described. In <FIG>, the pump (for solvent) <NUM> is connected to a solenoid valve (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM>, which is used to open and close a flow passage, through a passage <NUM> and the branch passage <NUM> provided on the passage <NUM>. Further, the solenoid valve (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> is connected to a filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM>, which removes foreign materials mixed in the solvent 69A, through a passage <NUM>, and the filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> is connected to a final filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM>, which is provided in the head cleaning unit <NUM> and is used to remove foreign materials initially mixed in a passage <NUM>, through the passage <NUM> passing through the conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM>. Furthermore, the final filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> is connected to a head cleaning nozzle <NUM>, which is provided in a head cleaning tank <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM>, through a passage <NUM>. Here, a space in the head cleaning tank <NUM> is adapted to communicate with the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> that is installed on the lower portion of the head cleaning tank <NUM>.

Next, the head drying passage of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described. In <FIG>, the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> is provided with a pump (for the supply of dry air) <NUM> that is used to suck and pump air, a passage <NUM> where an air suction port communicating with the inside of the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> is formed is connected to the pump (for the supply of dry air) <NUM>, and the pump (for the supply of dry air) <NUM> is connected to a solenoid valve (for the supply of dry air) <NUM>, which is used to open and close a flow passage, through a passage <NUM>. Further, the solenoid valve (for the supply of dry air) <NUM> is adapted to be connected to a head-drying air nozzle <NUM>, which is provided in the head cleaning tank <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM>, through a passage <NUM> passing through the conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM>.

Next, the structure of the print head <NUM> of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> are perspective views illustrating the appearance of the print head of this embodiment. <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the print head <NUM>, and <FIG> is a perspective view of the print head <NUM> in a state where the head cover <NUM> is removed.

In <FIG>, the print head <NUM> includes a head base <NUM>, the conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM> that connects the print head <NUM> to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM>, the protective cover <NUM> that is assembled to protect the switching valve <NUM> (not illustrated) installed on the head base <NUM>, and the head cover <NUM> at which a print opening 17A through which ink particles to be used for printing are to pass is formed and which is assembled to the protective cover <NUM> by the fixing knob <NUM>. In a state where the head cover <NUM> is assembled, a space surrounded by the head base <NUM> and the head cover <NUM> is protected from an impact to be generated at the time of maintenance, and the like. The space surrounded by the head base <NUM> and the head cover <NUM> is a space where a worker working daily performs the maintenance of components surrounded by the head cover <NUM>, and an internal area surrounded by the head base <NUM> and the protective cover <NUM> is an area where a so-called service technician performs maintenance.

Next, in the print head <NUM> in a state of <FIG> where the head cover <NUM> is detached, the nozzle <NUM> that is used to jet ink particles 59B, the charging electrodes <NUM> that are disposed in parallel and symmetrically with respect to the ink particles 59B jetted from the nozzle <NUM>, and a set of two deflecting electrodes <NUM> that is disposed on the secondary side of the charging electrodes <NUM> in the direction of flight of the ink particles 59B are placed and mounted on the head base <NUM>. The gutter <NUM>, which is disposed on the secondary side of the deflecting electrodes <NUM> in the direction of flight of the ink particles 59B and at which a hole used to capture ink particles 59B not used for printing is formed on the central axis of the flight of the ink particles 59B, is further mounted on the head base <NUM>. A tube (for supply) 808A and a tube (for circulation) 831A, which are made of PTFE having solvent resistance, are connected to the nozzle <NUM>.

Further, a partition member <NUM> is assembled to the print head <NUM> between the head base <NUM> and the protective cover <NUM> so that the inside of the protective cover <NUM> is not exposed to the outside even in a state where the head cover <NUM> is detached. Furthermore, a temperature sensor <NUM>, which is used to detect temperature around the print head <NUM>, is assembled to the partition member <NUM> of the print head <NUM>. The temperature sensor <NUM> is utilized for the control of printing of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> and the control of a head cleaning time.

Next, the structure of the head cleaning unit <NUM> of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating the structure of the head cleaning unit in which the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> of this embodiment is illustrated as a cross-section, and <FIG> is a diagram illustrating the structure of the head cleaning unit in which the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> of this embodiment is illustrated as a cross-section. Further, <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the head cleaning unit <NUM> in a state where the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> of this embodiment. <FIG> is an enlarged view illustrating the print head <NUM> and the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> of <FIG> and the structure therearound.

In <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the head cleaning unit <NUM> includes the head cleaning tank <NUM> in which the print head <NUM> is to be received during the cleaning of the head, and a cleaning lid block <NUM> which is installed on the upper portion of the head cleaning tank <NUM> and in which the print head-insertion portion <NUM> used to set the print head <NUM> on the head cleaning unit <NUM> is formed.

A lid member <NUM>, which closes the opening of the print head-insertion portion <NUM>, is assembled to the cleaning lid block <NUM> to prevent foreign materials, such as dust, from entering the head cleaning tank <NUM> in a case where the print head <NUM> is not set. The lid member <NUM> is assembled to the cleaning lid block <NUM> through a lid hinge <NUM>. A lid member protrusion 83A is formed on the lid member <NUM> to reduce friction resistance that is generated when the print head <NUM> is inserted into the head cleaning unit <NUM>. Further, a lid memberfitting recess 77E, to which the lid member <NUM> is exactly fitted, is formed on the cleaning lid block <NUM> to improve sealability in the head cleaning unit <NUM> in a case where the print head <NUM> is not set. Further, a print head-insertion hole 77F, which is an opening slightly larger than an insertion portion of the print head <NUM> to be inserted into the head cleaning unit <NUM>, is formed in the cleaning lid block <NUM>. The print head-insertion hole 77F formed in the cleaning lid block <NUM>, the lid member <NUM>, and the like form the print head-insertion portion <NUM> as described above.

Further, the print head-fixing part <NUM> that allows the position of the print head <NUM> to be stable during the cleaning of the head and a print head-guide part <NUM> that allows the print head <NUM> to be smoothly inserted during the insertion of the print head <NUM> into the head cleaning unit <NUM> are assembled to the cleaning lid block <NUM>. Since a fixing knob-fitting portion 67A is formed at the print head-fixing part <NUM> and the print head <NUM> is fixed to the head cleaning unit <NUM> through the fixing knob-fitting portion 67A, the stability of the cleaning of the head can be ensured.

Furthermore, the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> that is used to eject a solvent 69B for the cleaning of the head to the print head <NUM> and the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> that is used to blow drying air for drying the print head <NUM> wetted with the solvent 69B after the cleaning of the head are assembled to the cleaning lid block <NUM> by a nozzle-fixing plate <NUM> and a nozzle-fixing screw <NUM>. Since a liquid nozzle-fixing groove 71D is formed on the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> and the nozzle-fixing plate <NUM> is adapted to be fitted to the liquid nozzle-fixing groove 71D, the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> is adapted to be easily assembled. Further, since an air nozzle-fixing groove 72D is formed on the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> and the nozzle-fixing plate <NUM> is adapted to be fitted to the air nozzle-fixing groove 72D likewise, the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> is adapted to be easily assembled.

The head cleaning nozzle <NUM> includes a liquid nozzle-outer portion 71F that is formed in a columnar shape, and a liquid nozzle-flow passage portion 71A that is formed in the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> so as to extend from the nozzle <NUM> in the direction of the gutter <NUM> in a case where the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM>. In addition, the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> includes a liquid nozzle-ejection hole A portion 71B, a liquid nozzle-ejection hole B portion 71C, a liquid nozzle-ejection hole C portion <NUM> (not illustrated), and a liquid nozzle-planar portion <NUM>. The liquid nozzle-ejection hole A portion 71B is formed at an angle allowing the solvent 69B to aim at the nozzle <NUM>, that is, allowing the solvent 69B to hit the nozzle <NUM> through the liquid nozzle-flow passage portion 71A, and is used to eject the solvent 69B. The liquid nozzle-ejection hole B portion 71C is formed at an angle allowing the solvent 69B to aim at the deflecting electrodes <NUM>, that is, allowing the solvent 69B to hit the deflecting electrodes <NUM> through the liquid nozzle-flow passage portion 71A, and is used to eject the solvent 69B. The liquid nozzle-ejection hole C portion <NUM> is formed at an angle allowing the solvent 69B to aim at the charging electrodes <NUM>, that is, allowing the solvent 69B to hit the charging electrodes <NUM> through the liquid nozzle-flow passage portion 71A, and is used to eject the solvent 69B. The liquid nozzle-planar portion <NUM> is manufactured by forming a part of the liquid nozzle-outer portion 71F in a planar shape so that the liquid nozzle-ejection hole A portion 71B, the liquid nozzle-ejection hole B portion 71C, and the liquid nozzle-ejection hole C portion <NUM> (not illustrated) are easily formed.

As described above, the liquid nozzle-flow passage portion 71A is disposed on one side of the nozzle <NUM>, the charging electrodes <NUM>, and the deflecting electrodes <NUM> opposite to the head base <NUM> and serves as the supply passage of the solvent 69B to the liquid nozzle-ejection holes that eject the solvent 69B to the nozzle <NUM>, the charging electrodes <NUM>, and the deflecting electrodes <NUM>, respectively.

A liquid nozzle-sealing portion 71E of which the surface roughness is reduced is formed on the head cleaning nozzle <NUM>; and the liquid nozzle-sealing portion 71E is assembled to a cleaning lid-liquid nozzle mounting portion 77B, which is formed at the cleaning lid block <NUM>, together with a liquid sealing member <NUM> to prevent the leakage of the solvent 69B. Here, the liquid nozzle-flow passage portion 71A formed in the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> is adapted to be connected to a cleaning lid-liquid flow passage 77C formed in the cleaning lid block <NUM>.

Further, the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> includes an air nozzle-outer portion 72F, an air nozzle-flow passage portion 72A, an air nozzle-ejection hole A portion 72B, an air nozzle-ejection hole B portion 72C, and an air nozzle-planar portion <NUM>. The air nozzle-outer portion 72F is formed in a columnar shape. The air nozzle-flow passage portion 72A is formed in the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> so as to extend from the nozzle <NUM> in the direction of the gutter <NUM> in a case where the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM>. The air nozzle-ejection hole A portion 72B is connected to the air nozzle-flow passage portion 72A and is used to eject air to allow air to aim at a space between the charging electrodes <NUM>. The air nozzle-ejection hole B portion 72C is connected to the air nozzle-flow passage portion 72A and is used to eject air to allow air to aim at a space between the charging electrodes <NUM>. The air nozzle-planar portion <NUM> is manufactured by forming a part of the air nozzle-outer portion 72F in a planar shape so that the air nozzle-ejection hole A portion 72B and the air nozzle-ejection hole B portion 72C are easily formed.

As described above, the air nozzle-flow passage portion 72A is disposed on one side of the nozzle <NUM>, the charging electrodes <NUM>, and the deflecting electrodes <NUM> opposite to the head base <NUM> and serves as the supply passage of air to the air nozzle-ejection holes that eject air to the nozzle <NUM>, the charging electrodes <NUM>, and the deflecting electrodes <NUM>, respectively.

An air nozzle-sealing portion 72E of which the surface roughness is reduced is formed on the head-drying air nozzle <NUM>; and the air nozzle-sealing portion 72E is assembled to a cleaning lid-air nozzle mounting portion <NUM>, which is formed at the cleaning lid block <NUM>, together with an air sealing member <NUM> to prevent the leakage of air. Here, the air nozzle-flow passage portion 72A formed in the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> is adapted to be connected to a cleaning lid-air flow passage <NUM> formed in the cleaning lid block <NUM>.

Further, the head cleaning unit <NUM> includes the head cleaning tank <NUM> that is provided under the cleaning lid block <NUM> and is used to receive the print head <NUM> during the cleaning of the head. The head cleaning tank <NUM> includes a cleaning tank-side wall portion 73A that is formed to prevent the solvent 69B ejected from the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> from being scattered around the head cleaning tank <NUM>, and a cleaning tank-upper end portion 73F that is formed at the upper portion of the cleaning tank-side wall portion 73A. The cleaning tank-upper end portion 73F is fitted to a cleaning lid-mounting groove 77A formed on the lower portion of the cleaning lid block <NUM>, so that the head cleaning tank <NUM> is fixed to the cleaning lid block <NUM> and is sealed.

Furthermore, the head cleaning tank <NUM> includes a cleaning tank-liquid outflow pipe 73C and a cleaning tank-conical inner bottom 73B therein. The cleaning tank-liquid outflow pipe 73C allows the solvent 69B, which is jetted from the head cleaning nozzle <NUM>, to flow out of the head cleaning tank <NUM>. The cleaning tank-conical inner bottom 73B is formed obliquely so that the cleaning tank-liquid outflow pipe 73C is positioned at the lowest position to allow the solvent 69B to be easily collected at the cleaning tank-liquid outflow pipe 73C.

Further, the cleaning lid block <NUM> includes a cleaning lid-liquid joint mounting portion 77D that is connected to the cleaning lid-liquid flow passage 77C, and a liquid joint <NUM> is connected to the cleaning lid-liquid joint mounting portion 77D. Furthermore, a tube (for cleaning) 874A, which is made of a fluorine-based material having solvent resistance, is connected to the liquid joint <NUM> by a method, such as pressfitting, and the tube (for cleaning) 874A is mounted on the final filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> that is used to remove foreign materials mixed in the solvent 69A to be supplied to the head cleaning nozzle <NUM>. Moreover, a tube (for cleaning) 873A, which is made of a fluorine-based material having solvent resistance, is connected to the final filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM>, and the tube (for the cleaning of a head) 873A is connected to a filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> that is disposed in the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through the conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM>.

Further, the cleaning lid block <NUM> includes a cleaning lid-air joint mounting portion 77J that is connected to the cleaning lid-air flow passage <NUM>, and an air joint <NUM> is connected to the cleaning lid-air joint mounting portion 77J. Furthermore, a tube (for the supply of air) 883A, which is made of a fluorine-based material having solvent resistance, is connected to the air joint <NUM> by a method, such as pressfitting. Moreover, the tube (for the supply of air) 883A is connected to the solenoid valve (for the supply of dry air) <NUM> that is disposed in the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through the conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM>.

Further, the head cleaning unit <NUM> includes a cleaning tank cover <NUM> so that the tubes (for cleaning) 873A and 874A and the tube (for the supply of air) 883A are not exposed to the outside of the head cleaning unit <NUM>. The cleaning tank cover <NUM> is fixed to a cleaning lid-upper outer portion <NUM> that is formed at the upper portion of the cleaning lid block <NUM> and a cleaning tank-lower outer portion <NUM> that is formed at the lower portion of the head cleaning tank. The conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM> is assembled to the lower portion of the cleaning tank cover <NUM> by a conduit fixing nut <NUM> so that the conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM> does not protrude outward and does not obstruct other production facilities.

Furthermore, the head cleaning tank <NUM> includes a cleaning tank-bottle mounting portion 73E that is formed in a cylindrical shape at the lower portion of the head cleaning tank <NUM>, and the cleaning tank-liquid outflow pipe 73C that is formed inside the cleaning tank-bottle mounting portion 73E and is connected to the inside of the head cleaning tank <NUM>. Moreover, a cleaning tank-liquid outflow-inclined end portion 73D is formed at the lower end portion of the cleaning tank-liquid outflow pipe 73C so that the solvent 69B to drop down is likely to be concentrated on one position.

The detachable cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> can be set on the lower portion of the head cleaning unit <NUM>. The cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> includes a bottle-liquid storage portion 61A that stores the cleaning liquid 69C having been used for head cleaning processing, a bottle mounting portion 61B to which the cleaning tank-bottle mounting portion 73E of the head cleaning tank <NUM> is to fitted and fixed, and a bottle-liquid inlet 61C that is formed to surround the cleaning tank-liquid outflow pipe 73C from the outside.

Next, structure in a state where the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described. In <FIG> and <FIG>, the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> in a state where the head cover <NUM> is removed. The print head <NUM> is inserted up to a position where the nozzle <NUM>, the charging electrodes <NUM>, the deflecting electrodes <NUM>, and the gutter <NUM> are positioned in the head cleaning tank <NUM>. Further, the head cleaning unit <NUM> is disposed at a position where the surface of the print head-guide part <NUM> and the surface of the head base <NUM> are parallel to each other and are close to each other a range where the slide of the print head <NUM> in the vertical direction is not obstructed so that the position of the head cleaning unit <NUM> relative to the print head <NUM> is not shifted. Furthermore, the print head-fixing part <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> is originally disposed to be fitted to a position on the print head <NUM> where the head cover <NUM> is mounted, and the protective cover <NUM> of the print head <NUM> and the fixing knob-fitting portion 67A formed at the print head-fixing part <NUM> are fixed to each other by the fixing knob <NUM>, so that the print head <NUM> can be stably set on the head cleaning unit <NUM>.

Next, the operation of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment when head cleaning processing is performed in a state where the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG>. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating the passage configuration of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> in a state where the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> of this embodiment. The flows of the solvents 69A and 69B and the cleaning liquid 69C when the cleaning of the head of this embodiment and cleaning in the nozzle and a gutter passage are performed are shown in <FIG> by thick lines. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the head cleaning unit <NUM> illustrating the flow of liquid in the head cleaning unit <NUM> when head cleaning processing of this embodiment is performed, and <FIG> is an enlarged view illustrating the print head <NUM> and the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> when the head cleaning processing of the first embodiment is performed, and the structure therearound.

In <FIG>, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> ejects the solvent 69B from the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> in the head cleaning processing to perform the cleaning of the print head <NUM>. In a state where the solvent 69B is being ejected from the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> in the head cleaning processing, the pump (for solvent) <NUM> is operated and electric current is applied to the solenoid valve (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> so that the solenoid valve (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> opens the flow passage. Accordingly, the solvent 69A stored in the solvent container <NUM> is supplied to the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> in a flow direction in which the solvent 69A is supplied as illustrated by an arrow A. Here, foreign materials initially mixed in the solvent 69A stored in the solvent container <NUM> are removed by the filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM>. Further, since foreign materials, which are initially mixed between the filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> and the final filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM>, are removed by the final filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM>, foreign materials are prevented from flowing into the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> together with the solvent 69A. Here, the replacement cycle of the filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> is set to be shorter than the replacement cycle of the final filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM>, and the installation position of the filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM> is provided at a place where the filter can be more easily replaced than at the installation position of the final filter (for the cleaning of a head) <NUM>.

The solvent 69A supplied to the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> is ejected as the solvent 69B in the direction illustrated by an arrow B (a direction where the solvent 69B is ejected to the nozzle <NUM> from the liquid nozzle-ejection hole A portion 71B) and the direction illustrated by an arrow C (a direction where the solvent 69B is ejected to the deflecting electrodes <NUM> from the liquid nozzle-ejection hole B portion 71C), and the solvent 69B is sprayed on components assembled to the print head <NUM>, such as the nozzle <NUM>, the charging electrodes <NUM>, and the deflecting electrodes <NUM>. Accordingly, dirt, which is caused by the ink 59A adhering during the operation of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> and at the time of maintenance, can be cleaned. Further, since the solvent 69B, which is sprayed on the assembled components, such as the nozzle <NUM>, the charging electrodes <NUM>, and the deflecting electrodes <NUM>, drops and flows in the directions illustrated by arrow D and E due to gravity, the gutter <NUM>, which is disposed below the deflecting electrodes <NUM> in a state where the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM>, can be cleaned with the solvent 69B.

Further, the solvent 69B having cleaned the components arranged on the print head <NUM>, such as the nozzle <NUM>, the charging electrodes <NUM>, the deflecting electrodes <NUM>, and the gutter <NUM>, in the head cleaning processing drops down in the directions illustrated by arrows F, G, and H, flows into the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> installed on the lower portion of the head cleaning unit <NUM>, and is stored in the lower portion of the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> as the cleaning liquid 69C.

Furthermore, in a state where the head cleaning processing of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is being performed, the pump (for circulation) <NUM> is operated and electric current is applied to the solenoid valve (for circulation) <NUM> so that the solenoid valve (for circulation) <NUM> opens the flow passage. Accordingly, a part of the solvent 69B ejected from the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> in the direction of the arrow B is sucked from a nozzle outlet 21A, which is formed at the nozzle <NUM>, and is recovered to the main ink container <NUM> in a flow direction in which the solvent 69B is sucked as illustrated by an arrow J. In this way, the inside of the nozzle <NUM> and the passages (for circulation) <NUM> to <NUM> can also be cleaned with the solvent 69B in the head cleaning processing.

Moreover, in a state where the head cleaning processing of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is being performed, the pump (for recovery) <NUM> is operated and electric current is applied to the solenoid valve (for recovery) <NUM> so that the solenoid valve (for recovery) <NUM> opens the flow passage. Accordingly, a part of the solvent 69B, which is ejected from the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> and drops in the directions of the arrows D and E, is sucked from a gutter outlet 25A, which is formed at the gutter <NUM>, and is recovered to the main ink container <NUM> in a flow direction in which the solvent 69B is sucked as illustrated by an arrow K. In this way, the inside of the gutter <NUM> and the passages (for the recovery of ink) <NUM> to <NUM> can also be cleaned with the solvent 69B in the head cleaning processing.

Next, head drying processing of this embodiment will be described. <FIG> is an enlarged view illustrating the print head and the drying nozzle when the head drying processing of this embodiment is performed, and the structure therearound.

In <FIG>, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> ejects air from the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> in the head drying processing to perform the drying of the print head <NUM>. In a state where air is being ejected from the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> in the head drying processing, the pump (for the supply of dry air) <NUM> is operated and electric current is applied to the solenoid valve (for the supply of dry air) <NUM> so that the solenoid valve (for the supply of dry air) <NUM> opens the flow passage. Accordingly, air is ejected from the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> in the direction of an arrow M (a direction where air is ejected to a gap between the charging electrodes <NUM> from the air nozzle-ejection hole A portion 72B) and the direction of an arrow N (a direction where air is ejected to the deflecting electrodes <NUM> from the air nozzle-ejection hole B portion 72C). As a result, a drying time for the print head <NUM>, which is wetted with the solvent 69B in the head cleaning processing, can be shortened.

Next, <FIG> is a diagram illustrating a state where the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is detached from the head cleaning unit <NUM> of this embodiment. A female screw portion formed on the cleaning tank-bottle mounting portion 73E of the head cleaning unit <NUM> and a male screw portion formed on the bottle mounting portion 61B of the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> are fitted to each other, so that the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is fixed to the head cleaning unit <NUM>. For this reason, the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> can be detached from the head cleaning unit <NUM> in a case where the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is rotated. Further, the cleaning liquid 69C, which is stored in the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> after the head cleaning processing, can be discharged from the bottle-liquid inlet 61C in a case where the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is tilted.

Next, the flow of the operation of the head cleaning processing of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> is a flowchart illustrating a head cleaning operation of the first embodiment.

First, in Step S901 of <FIG>, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is in a state where the ejection of ink from the nozzle <NUM> of the print head <NUM> is stopped and the components of an ink circulation system, such as the pump (for supply) <NUM> and the solenoid valve (for supply) <NUM>, are not operated since power is not supplied to the components of the ink circulation system.

In Step S902, a worker detaches the print head <NUM>, which is installed on a production facility, from the print head-fixing bracket <NUM>, removes the head cover <NUM> from the print head <NUM>, and sets the print head <NUM> on the head cleaning unit <NUM>.

In Step S903, the worker presses the start button <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM>. Alternatively, the worker presses a start button that is displayed on the touch panel type operation display portion <NUM> and is used to perform the head cleaning processing.

In Step S904, a message, such as "Please confirm whether or not the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is mounted on the head cleaning unit <NUM>", is displayed on the display part <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> or the operation display portion <NUM>.

In Step S905, the worker confirms the message displayed in Step S904. As a result of the confirmation, if the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is correctly mounted on the head cleaning unit <NUM>, the worker makes the determination of "YES" and presses the start button <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> or an "execution" button displayed on the touch panel type operation display portion <NUM> to make the processing proceed to Step S911. As a result of the confirmation, if the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is not mounted on the head cleaning unit <NUM>, the worker makes the determination of "NO" to make the processing proceed to Step S906.

In Step S906, after mounting the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM>, the worker presses the start button <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> or an "execution" button displayed on the touch panel type operation display portion <NUM> to make the processing proceed to Step S911.

In Step S911, a message of "during the head cleaning processing" is displayed on the display part <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> or the operation display portion <NUM> so that the worker recognizes the start of the head cleaning processing.

Step S912 is a head cleaning step, and ejects the solvent 69B from the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> to clean the print head <NUM>.

Step S913 is a head drying step, and ejects air from the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> to dry the print head <NUM>. A drying time for the print head <NUM> is controlled to an appropriate drying time on the basis of the type of the ink 59A, the type of the solvent 69A, or the condition of the temperature around the print head <NUM> detected by the temperature sensor <NUM>. For example, a drying time, that is, an air supply time in a service condition where the temperature detected by the temperature sensor <NUM> is low is set to be longer than that in a service condition where the temperature detected by the temperature sensor <NUM> is high. The reason for this is that it is difficult to dry the print head <NUM> at a low temperature.

Then, the worker ends the head cleaning processing in Step S921, and detaches the print head <NUM> from the head cleaning unit <NUM> and mounts the print head <NUM> on the print head-fixing bracket <NUM> provided on the production facility in Step S922.

In Step S931, the worker presses an "operation start" button displayed on the touch panel type operation display portion <NUM>.

In Step S932, ink is being ejected from the nozzle <NUM> of the print head <NUM> and the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is ready to perform printing.

Next, the flow of the operation of batch head cleaning processing of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> is a flowchart illustrating the batch head cleaning processing of this embodiment. In the batch head cleaning processing, the ejection of the ink from the nozzle <NUM> of the print head <NUM> is stopped from a state where the ink 59A is being ejected from the nozzle <NUM> of the print head <NUM>, the solvent 69A is supplied to the nozzle <NUM> through the switching valve <NUM> to clean the nozzle <NUM>, and the solvent is then ejected to the print head <NUM> from the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> to clean the print head <NUM>.

First, in Step S951 of <FIG>, the ink 59A is being ejected from the nozzle <NUM> of the print head <NUM> installed on the production facility.

In Step S952, the worker detaches the print head <NUM>, which is installed on the production facility, from the print head-fixing bracket <NUM>, removes the head cover <NUM> from the print head <NUM>, and sets the print head <NUM> on the head cleaning unit <NUM>.

In Step S953, the worker presses the start button <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM>. Alternatively, the worker presses a start button that is displayed on the touch panel type operation display portion <NUM> and is used to perform the head cleaning processing.

In Step S954, a message, such as "Please confirm whether or not the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is mounted on the head cleaning unit <NUM>", is displayed on the display part <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> or the operation display portion <NUM>.

In Step S955, the worker confirms the message displayed in Step S954. As a result of the confirmation, if the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is correctly mounted on the head cleaning unit <NUM>, the worker makes the determination of "YES" and presses the start button <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> or an "execution" button displayed on the touch panel type operation display portion <NUM> to make the processing proceed to Step S961. As a result of the confirmation, if the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM> is not mounted on the head cleaning unit <NUM>, the worker makes the determination of "NO" to make the processing proceed to Step S956.

In Step S956, after mounting the cleaning liquid bottle <NUM>, the worker presses the start button <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> or an "execution" button displayed on the touch panel type operation display portion <NUM> to make the processing proceed to Step S961.

In Step S961, the worker starts batch head cleaning processing. First, Step S962 is a step of stopping the ejection of ink, and performs processing for stopping the ejection of the ink 59A from the nozzle <NUM> of the print head <NUM>. After that, Step S963 is a nozzle cleaning step, and supplies the solvent 69A to the nozzle <NUM> of the print head <NUM> through the switching valve <NUM> to perform cleaning from the inside of the nozzle <NUM>. Then, Step S964 is a head cleaning step, and ejects the solvent 69B from the head cleaning nozzle <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> to clean the print head <NUM>. Step S965 is a head drying step, and ejects air from the head-drying air nozzle <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> to dry the print head <NUM>. A drying time for the print head <NUM> is controlled to an appropriate drying time on the basis of the type of the ink 59A, the type of the solvent 69A, or the condition of the temperature around the print head <NUM> detected by the temperature sensor <NUM>. Then, the worker ends the batch head cleaning processing in Step S971.

In Step S972, the worker detaches the print head <NUM> from the head cleaning unit <NUM> and mounts the print head <NUM> on the print head-fixing bracket <NUM> provided on the production facility.

In Step S973, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is in a state where the ejection of ink from the nozzle <NUM> of the print head <NUM> is stopped and the components of an ink circulation system, such as the pump (for supply) <NUM> and the solenoid valve (for supply) <NUM>, are not operated since power is not supplied to the components of the ink circulation system.

According to this embodiment, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> can perform processing from the cleaning of the head up to the drying of the head as a series of flow since the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> as described above. Further, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> reduces the moving distance of the print head <NUM> at the time of the head cleaning operation since the head cleaning unit <NUM> is installed on the belt conveyor <NUM> of the production line, and improves the stability of the head cleaning operation since the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM>. Furthermore, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> can have a head cleaning function to also allow the inside of the nozzle <NUM> to be cleaned by sucking the solvent 69A from the nozzle <NUM> during the clean of the head.

A state where an ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment is used will be described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. Meanwhile, the description of portions common to the first embodiment will be omitted and a difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment will be mainly described.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a state where the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment is used, and <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a state where a print head <NUM> is set on a head cleaning unit <NUM> in the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> includes an ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM>, a print head <NUM> that is connected to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through a conduit (for a print head) <NUM>, and a head cleaning unit <NUM> that is connected to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through a conduit (for a head cleaning unit) <NUM>. The ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> includes an operation display portion <NUM> that is used for the switching of print settings, the display of a confirmation message and an alarm, and the like, and a head cleaning unit-fixing jig (for a body) 91A that is used to fix the head cleaning unit <NUM> to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM>. Further, the head cleaning unit <NUM> is installed on the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through the head cleaning unit-fixing jig (for a body) 91A.

<FIG> illustrates a state where the print head <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> in the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM>. Since the head cleaning unit <NUM> is installed on the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM>, it is possible to realize a structure where a head cleaning operation using the operation display portion <NUM> is easily performed. Further, since the head cleaning unit <NUM> can be installed on the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM>, the head cleaning unit <NUM> can be used even in a case where a space required for the installation of the head cleaning unit <NUM> is not present on the production line, such as the belt conveyor <NUM>.

According to this embodiment, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is adapted so that the head cleaning unit <NUM> is installed on the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> as described above, it is possible to provide the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> that is improved in the handleability and installability of the head cleaning unit <NUM>.

A state where an ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment is used will be described with reference to <FIG>. Meanwhile, the description of portions common to the first and second embodiments will be omitted and a difference between this embodiment and the first and second embodiments will be mainly described.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a state where a print head <NUM> of another ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is set on a head cleaning unit <NUM> and the cleaning of the head is performed in the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> according to this embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the head cleaning unit <NUM> is installed on an ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through a head cleaning unit-fixing jig (for a body) 91A in the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM>. Further, the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is installed near the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM>. The ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> includes an ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM>, a print head <NUM> that is connected to the ink jet recording apparatus body <NUM> through a conduit (for a print head) <NUM>, and an operation display portion <NUM> that is used for the switching of print settings, the display of a confirmation message and an alarm, and the like.

Further, the print head <NUM> of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is set on the head cleaning unit <NUM> of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM>. The print head <NUM> is inserted into the print head-insertion portion <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> from the end of the print head <NUM> in a state where a head cover <NUM> is detached. Then, the print head-fixing part <NUM> and a fixing knob <NUM> are fitted to each other, so that the print head <NUM> is fixed to and mounted on the head cleaning unit <NUM>. In a case where a worker operates the operation display portion <NUM> of the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> or presses the start button <NUM> of the head cleaning unit <NUM> in this state, the control of the cleaning of the head can be performed.

According to this embodiment, since the ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> is adapted so that the print head <NUM> of another ink jet recording apparatus <NUM> can also be set and cleaned, it is possible to provide an ink jet recording apparatus of which the usability is improved.

Claim 1:
An ink jet recording apparatus (<NUM>) comprising:
an ink container (<NUM>) in which ink to be used to perform printing on a print target is stored,
a nozzle (<NUM>) which is connected to the ink container (<NUM>) and from which pressurized and supplied ink (59A) is jetted,
charging electrodes (<NUM>) that charge ink particles (59B) jetted from the nozzle (<NUM>) with electricity,
deflecting electrodes (<NUM>) that polarize the ink particles (59B) charged with electricity by the charging electrodes (<NUM>),
a gutter (<NUM>) that recovers ink (59A) not used for printing,
a solvent container (<NUM>) in which a solvent (69A) is stored, and
a liquid nozzle (<NUM>) which is connected to the solvent container (<NUM>) and from which a pressurized and supplied solvent (69A) is jetted, wherein
the liquid nozzle (<NUM>) includes a liquid flow passage portion (71A) that extends from the nozzle (<NUM>) in a direction of the gutter (<NUM>), and a liquid jet hole that is formed at an angle allowing the pressurized and supplied solvent (69A) to hit the nozzle (<NUM>) through the liquid flow passage portion (71A),
characterized in that:
the liquid nozzle (<NUM>) includes a second liquid jet hole that is formed at an angle allowing the solvent (69A) to hit the deflecting electrodes (<NUM>).