JP7267136B2 - Inkjet printer and ink supply method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an inkjet printer and an ink supply method.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an ink path connecting an ink cartridge storing ink and an ink head, an ink supply device arranged in the ink path and supplying ink to the ink head, and an ink supply device supplying ink from the ink supply device. and a damper having a reservoir for temporarily storing the applied ink. The inkjet printer disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a detection device that detects the amount of ink remaining in the reservoir. When the detection device detects that the amount of ink remaining in the storage chamber is less than a predetermined amount, the ink supply device is driven to supply a predetermined amount of ink from the ink cartridge to the storage chamber.

JP 2017-222086 A

By the way, air may exist in the ink path when ink is supplied from the ink cartridge to the ink head at the initial setting of the ink jet printer or the like. When printing is performed on a recording medium by ejecting ink from nozzles in a state where air exists in the ink path, the air may be discharged from the nozzles instead of the ink, resulting in poor printing. For this reason, the negative pressure in the ink path and the damper is increased to a predetermined level by sucking the fluid in the closed space with the suction pump in a state where the nozzle surface on which the nozzles are formed is covered with a cap to form a closed space. (that is, the absolute pressure is lowered to a predetermined value). As a result, when ink is supplied from the ink cartridge to the ink head, the ink is appropriately supplied to the ink path and the damper.

However, depending on the performance of the ink supply device (for example, a suction pump), the flow path resistance in the ink path, etc., the inventors have found that the negative pressure in the ink path and the damper does not reach a predetermined level or the negative pressure We have noticed that it can happen that the pressure exceeds a certain height. When the negative pressure inside the damper does not reach a predetermined level (that is, when the absolute pressure is relatively high), the ink supply to the damper is insufficient, and an appropriate amount of ink cannot be stored in the damper. , can adversely affect subsequent printing. Also, if the negative pressure inside the damper exceeds a predetermined level (that is, if the absolute pressure is relatively low), the damper and the ink path may malfunction.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of this point, and its object is to provide an ink jet printer capable of supplying ink after increasing the negative pressure in the ink path and damper to an appropriate level. be.

An inkjet printer according to the present invention includes: a first ink head having a plurality of first nozzles for ejecting ink onto a recording medium; a first nozzle surface on which the plurality of first nozzles are formed; A first upstream end detachably connected to one ink cartridge, a first downstream end connected to the first ink head, the first upstream end and the first downstream end and a first intermediate portion located between the first ink path and the a first ink supply device that supplies ink to a first ink head; and a first storage chamber in which ink is temporarily stored; a first damper disposed in the first intermediate portion so as to be positioned; a first detection device for detecting pressure in the first reservoir chamber; a first cap that covers the first nozzle surface and forms a first closed space between the first nozzle surface and the first nozzle surface when attached to the head; and a first suction that sucks the fluid in the first closed space. a pump; and a control device that controls the first ink head, the first ink supply device, and the first suction pump. The control device sucks the fluid in the first sealed space with the first suction pump in a state where the first intermediate portion is closed between the first damper and the first upstream end. a first suction start unit for starting a first suction operation, a first storage unit for storing a first time that is a time when the pressure in the first storage chamber becomes equal to or less than a predetermined pressure, and from the first time a first supply start section for driving the first ink supply device to start supplying ink from the first ink cartridge to the first ink head when a predetermined first elapsed time has elapsed; a first suction stop section for stopping the first suction operation when a predetermined first drive time elapses after driving the first ink supply device; and a first supply stop unit for stopping the driving of the first ink supply device when the ink becomes large.

According to the ink-jet printer of the present invention, the first supply starter starts the first supply when the predetermined first elapsed time elapses from the first time, which is the time when the pressure in the first storage chamber becomes equal to or less than the predetermined pressure. The ink supply device is driven to supply ink from the first ink cartridge to the first ink head. Here, the inventor believes that the time required for the pressure in the first storage chamber to drop below a predetermined pressure (that is, a predetermined negative pressure) depends on the performance of the first ink supply device and the flow path of the first ink path. I noticed that there are variations due to resistance and so on. Furthermore, when the pressure in the first storage chamber falls below a predetermined pressure, the inventor drives the first ink supply device for a certain period of time after that to reduce the negative pressure in the first storage chamber and the first ink path. was found to be adjustable to the desired value. Therefore, according to the above configuration, when the first ink supply device is driven to start supplying ink to the first ink head, the negative pressure in the first reservoir chamber and the first ink path reaches an appropriate level. Since it is adjusted, an appropriate amount of ink can be supplied into the first reservoir chamber without causing troubles in the first damper and the first ink path.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an inkjet printer capable of supplying ink after increasing the negative pressure in the ink path and damper to an appropriate level.

1 is a perspective view of a printer according to one embodiment; FIG. 1 is a front view of main parts of a printer according to one embodiment; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing part of an ink supply system according to an embodiment; FIG. 4 is a bottom view of a carriage according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of a first supply pump according to one embodiment; FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional plan view of the first damper and the first detection device according to one embodiment, and shows a state in which the pressure in the first storage chamber is equal to or lower than a predetermined pressure; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional plan view of the first damper and the first detection device according to the embodiment, and shows a state in which the pressure in the first storage chamber is higher than the predetermined pressure; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the peripheral configuration of the capping device according to one embodiment, and is a front view showing a state where the cap is removed from the ink head. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the peripheral configuration of a capping device according to an embodiment, and is a front view showing a state in which a cap is attached to an ink head. 3 is a block diagram of the control system of the printer according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing a procedure for supplying ink from a first ink cartridge to a first ink head according to one embodiment; 5 is a flow chart showing a procedure for supplying ink from a second ink cartridge to a second ink head according to one embodiment;

Hereinafter, an inkjet printer 10 (hereinafter referred to as printer 10) according to one embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described herein are, of course, not intended to specifically limit the invention. Further, members and portions having the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions are appropriately omitted or simplified.

In the following description, left, right, top, and bottom refer to left, right, top, and bottom, respectively, as seen from the user in front of printer 10 . Also, the direction closer to the user from the printer 10 is defined as the front, and the direction away from the printer 10 is defined as the rear. Symbols F, Rr, L, R, U, and D in the drawings represent front, rear, left, right, up, and down, respectively. Symbol Y in the drawing represents the main scanning direction. In this embodiment, the main scanning direction Y is the horizontal direction. Reference character X in the drawings indicates the sub-scanning direction. The sub-scanning direction X is a direction intersecting the main scanning direction Y (for example, a direction intersecting perpendicularly in plan view). In this embodiment, the sub-scanning direction X is the front-rear direction. However, the above direction is merely determined for convenience and should not be construed as limiting.

As shown in FIG. 1, printer 10 prints on recording medium 12 . The recording medium 12 is, for example, formed long and wound into a roll for use. Note that the recording medium 12 may be in the form of a sheet that is obtained by cutting a roll into a predetermined length. The recording medium 12 is, for example, recording paper. However, the recording medium 12 is not limited to recording paper. For example, the recording medium 12 includes a sheet made of a resin material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyester, a sealing material made of a backing paper and a release paper laminated on the backing paper and coated with an adhesive, and the like. be

As shown in FIG. 1, the printer 10 includes a base member 40, a main body case 50, a right leg portion 16R, a left leg portion 16L, an ink head unit 20 (see FIG. 2), and a controller 30 (see FIG. 2). see). The base member 40 extends in the main scanning direction Y. As shown in FIG. The base member 40 has a platen 15 . The platen 15 extends in the main scanning direction Y. As shown in FIG. The right leg portion 16R and the left leg portion 16L are attached to the lower portion of the base member 40. As shown in FIG. The right leg portion 16R and the left leg portion 16L support the base member 40 .

As shown in FIG. 2, the ink head unit 20 is provided on the base member 40. As shown in FIG. The ink head unit 20 is arranged inside the body case 50 . The ink head unit 20 is arranged above the platen 15 . The ink head unit 20 includes a carriage 22, a first ink head 21A, a second ink head 21B, a first damper 80A and a second damper 80B which will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 10 has guide rails 13 provided on the base member 40 . The guide rail 13 extends in the main scanning direction Y. As shown in FIG. A carriage 22 of the ink head unit 20 is engaged with the guide rail 13 . The carriage 22 is reciprocated in the main scanning direction Y along the guide rail 13 by the carriage movement mechanism 8 . The carriage moving mechanism 8 has a left pulley 19 a arranged on the left end side of the guide rail 13 and a pulley 19 b arranged on the right end side of the guide rail 13 . A carriage motor 8a is connected to the pulley 19b. The carriage motor 8a may be connected to the pulley 19a. The pulley 19b is driven by the carriage motor 8a. An endless belt 16 is wound around each of the pulleys 19a and 19b. Carriage 22 is secured to belt 16 . The carriage 22 moves in the main scanning direction Y when the pulleys 19a and 19b rotate and the belt 16 runs. Thus, the carriage 22 is configured to be movable in the main scanning direction Y along the guide rails 13 .

As shown in FIG. 2, the platen 15 is provided in the central portion of the base member 40. As shown in FIG. The platen 15 is arranged between the left front cover 54L and the right front cover 54R of the body case 50 . A recording medium 12 is placed on the platen 15 . The platen 15 extends in the main scanning direction Y. As shown in FIG. A plurality of grit rollers 17 are provided on the platen 15 . The grit roller 17 is arranged at a position facing a pinch roller (not shown) provided on the base member 40 . The grit roller 17 is connected to a feed motor 17a. The grit roller 17 is rotationally driven by a feed motor 17a. When the grit roller 17 rotates while the recording medium 12 is sandwiched between the grit roller 17 and the pinch roller, the recording medium 12 is conveyed in the sub-scanning direction X (see FIG. 1).

As shown in FIG. 2, the body case 50 accommodates a plurality of ink cartridges 25 . The ink cartridge 25 is a container that stores ink in a sealed manner. In this embodiment, as the ink cartridges 25, four first ink cartridges 25A and four second ink cartridges 25B are accommodated in the body case 50. As shown in FIG. The first ink cartridge 25A is detachably connected to a first upstream end 62A (see FIG. 3) of a first ink path 60A (see FIG. 3), which will be described later. The second ink cartridge 25B is detachably connected to the second upstream end 62B (see FIG. 3) of the second ink path 60B. The ink cartridge 25 contains, for example, process color inks such as cyan ink, magenta ink, yellow ink, light cyan ink, light magenta ink, and black ink, and special color inks such as white ink, metallic ink, and clear ink. One of these inks is stored. Here, white ink and metallic ink are sedimentation-type inks in which sedimentation of ink components (pigment particles, metal powder, etc.) occurs as the stationary time continues. In this embodiment, for example, process color ink is stored in the first ink cartridge 25A, and sedimentary ink is stored in the second ink cartridge 25B.

As shown in FIG. 2, printer 10 includes an ink supply system 55 . In addition to the first ink cartridge 25A and the second ink cartridge 25B, the ink supply system 55 includes the first ink head 21A, the second ink head 21B, the first ink path 60A (see FIG. 3), and the second ink path 60B (see FIG. 3). 3), a first supply pump 68A, a second supply pump 68B, a first damper 80A, a second damper 80B, a first detection device 90A (see FIG. 3), and a second detection device 90B (see FIG. 3). ing. The first supply pump 68A is an example of a first ink supply device. The second supply pump 68B is an example of a second ink supply device. The first ink head 21A, the second ink head 21B, the first damper 80A, and the second damper 80B are mounted on the carriage 22 and reciprocate in the main scanning direction Y. As shown in FIG. On the other hand, the ink cartridge 25 is not mounted on the carriage 22 and does not reciprocate in the main scanning direction Y. As shown in FIG. Therefore, in order to prevent damage to the first ink path 60A and the second ink path 60B even when the carriage 22 moves in the main scanning direction Y, most of the first ink path 60A and the second ink path 60B (at least half of the total length) above) are arranged in a state of being extended in the main scanning direction Y. As shown in FIG. The first ink path 60A and the second ink path 60B are covered with a cable protection guide device 46. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first ink head 21A and the second ink head 21B are formed in such a shape that the length in the sub-scanning direction X (front-back direction) is longer than the length in the main scanning direction Y (left-right direction). there is The first ink head 21A and the second ink head 21B are formed to have the same shape and size. The first ink head 21A includes a plurality of first nozzles 23A arranged in the sub-scanning direction X, and a first nozzle surface 24A on which the first nozzles 23A are formed. The second ink head 21B includes a plurality of second nozzles 23B arranged in the sub-scanning direction X, and a second nozzle surface 24B on which the second nozzles 23B are formed. The insides of the first nozzle 23A and the second nozzle 23B are set to a negative pressure (pressure lower than atmospheric pressure). Note that since the first nozzles 23A and the second nozzles 23B are minute, the plurality of the first nozzles 23A and the second nozzles 23B are represented by straight lines in FIG. The first ink head 21A and the second ink head 21B are accommodated in the carriage 22 so that the first nozzle surface 24A and the second nozzle surface 24B are exposed to the outside. The second ink head 21B is arranged to the side of the first ink head 21A. Here, the second ink head 21B is arranged to the right of the first ink head 21A.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first ink cartridge 25A and the first ink head 21A are in communication via the first ink path 60A. The first ink path 60A has a first upstream end 62A, a first downstream end 63A, and a first intermediate portion 65A. The first upstream end 62A is detachably connected to the ink outlet of the first ink cartridge 25A. The first downstream end 63A is connected to the first ink head 21A. The first intermediate portion 65A is located between the first upstream end portion 62A and the first downstream end portion 63A. The first ink path 60A forms a flow path that guides ink from the first ink cartridge 25A to the first ink head 21A. Also, the second ink cartridge 25B and the second ink head 21B are in communication via a second ink path 60B. The second ink path 60B has a second upstream end 62B, a second downstream end 63B, and a second intermediate portion 65B. The second upstream end 62B is detachably connected to the ink outlet of the second ink cartridge 25B. The second downstream end 63B is connected to the second ink head 21B. The second intermediate portion 65B is located between the second upstream end 62B and the second downstream end 63B. The second ink path 60B forms a flow path that guides ink from the second ink cartridge 25B to the second ink head 21B. The first ink path 60A and the second ink path 60B are configured to have softness and flexibility and be elastically deformable. The configurations of the first ink path 60A and the second ink path 60B are not particularly limited, but in the present embodiment, they are easily deformable tubes made of resin. However, it may be composed of a material other than the tube. A part of the first ink path 60A and the second ink path 60B may be configured by tubes.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first intermediate portion 65A includes a tube 65AA, a tube 65AB and a tube 65AC. The tube 65AA communicates between the first ink cartridge 25A and the first supply pump 68A. The tube 65AB communicates between the first supply pump 68A and the first damper 80A. The tube 65AC communicates between the first damper 80A and the first ink head 21A. The first upstream end 62A is provided on the tube 65AA. The first downstream end 63A is provided on the tube 65AC. Also, the second intermediate portion 65B includes a tube 65BA, a tube 65BB and a tube 65BC. The tube 65BA communicates the second ink cartridge 25B and the second supply pump 68B. The tube 65BB communicates the second supply pump 68B and the second damper 80B. The tube 65BC communicates between the second damper 80B and the second ink head 21B. The second upstream end 62B is provided on the tube 65BA. The second downstream end 63B is provided on the tube 65BC.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first supply pump 68A is arranged in the first intermediate portion 65A. The first supply pump 68A is arranged between the first ink cartridge 25A and the first damper 80A. The first supply pump 68A is configured to be able to open and close the first intermediate portion 65A. The first supply pump 68A supplies ink from the first ink cartridge 25A to the first ink head 21A. The first supply pump 68A operates when the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A of the first damper 80A is a predetermined pressure or less (for example, the absolute pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is a predetermined pressure or less) in the first detection device 90A. Driven when detected to be present. When a predetermined amount of ink is supplied to the first storage chamber 81A by the first supply pump 68A, the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A becomes higher than the predetermined pressure (for example, the absolute pressure in the first storage chamber 81A exceeds the predetermined pressure). pressure). Also, the second supply pump 68B is arranged in the second intermediate portion 65B. The second supply pump 68B is arranged between the second ink cartridge 25B and the second damper 80B. The second supply pump 68B is configured to be able to open and close the second intermediate portion 65B. The second supply pump 68B supplies ink from the second ink cartridge 25B toward the second ink head 21B. The second supply pump 68B is controlled by the second detection device 90B when the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B of the second damper 80B is a predetermined pressure or less (for example, the absolute pressure in the second storage chamber 81B is a predetermined pressure or less). Driven when detected to be present. When a predetermined amount of ink is supplied to the second storage chamber 81B by the second supply pump 68B, the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B becomes higher than the predetermined pressure (for example, the absolute pressure in the second storage chamber 81B exceeds the predetermined pressure). pressure).

FIG. 5 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the first supply pump 68A. Since the second supply pump 68B has the same configuration as the first supply pump 68A, detailed description of the second supply pump 68B is omitted. As shown in FIG. 5, the first supply pump 68A is a tube pump. The tube pump includes a case 71 having an arc-shaped wall, a tube 72 arranged in the case 71, a pressing body 73 capable of pressing a part of the tube 72, and a pressure body supporting and pressing the pressing body 73. A rotating disk 74 for moving the body 73 within the case 71 and a motor 75 for rotating the rotating disk 74 are provided. The tube 72 is formed to allow ink to flow therein and to be elastically deformable. One end 72A of the tube 72 is connected to the tube 65AA (see FIG. 3). The other end 72B of tube 72 is connected to tube 65AB (see FIG. 3). The pressing body 73 is fixed on the rotating disc 74 so that it moves along the tube 72 when the rotating disc 74 rotates. The pressing body 73 moves while pressing a part of the tube 72 by rotating the rotary disk 74 in the direction of the arrow R1 in FIG. As a result, the ink inside the tube 72 is moved while the tube 72 is closed. Further, the pressing body 73 is separated from the tube 72 by rotating the rotating disk 74 in the direction of the arrow R2 in FIG. This opens the tube 72 . Motor 75 is controlled by controller 30 .

As shown in FIG. 3, the first damper 80A is arranged at the first intermediate portion 65A. The first damper 80A is arranged between the first supply pump 68A and the first ink head 21A. The first damper 80A has a first storage chamber 81A in which ink is temporarily stored. Ink supplied from the first ink cartridge 25A is temporarily stored in the first storage chamber 81A. The first damper 80A communicates with the first ink head 21A. The first damper 80A is provided, for example, above the first ink head 21A. Also, the second damper 80B is arranged at the second intermediate portion 65B. The second damper 80B is arranged between the second supply pump 68B and the second ink head 21B. The second damper 80B has a second storage chamber 81B in which ink is temporarily stored. Ink supplied from the second ink cartridge 25B is temporarily stored in the second storage chamber 81B. The second damper 80B communicates with the second ink head 21B. The second damper 80B is provided, for example, above the second ink head 21B. In this embodiment, the first damper 80A and the second damper 80B have the same configuration.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first detection device 90A is arranged on the side of the first damper 80A. The first detection device 90A detects the pressure inside the first storage chamber 81A of the first damper 80A (in other words, the amount of ink flowing into the first storage chamber 81A). Also, the second detection device 90B is arranged on the side of the second damper 80B. The second detection device 90B detects the pressure inside the second storage chamber 81B of the second damper 80B (in other words, the amount of ink flowing into the second storage chamber 81B). The first supply pump 68A is controlled based on the pressure inside the first storage chamber 81A, and the second supply pump 68B is controlled based on the pressure inside the second storage chamber 81B.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the first damper 80A and the first detection device 90A. The second damper 80B has the same configuration as the first damper 80A, and the second detection device 90B has the same configuration as the first detection device 90A. Description is omitted. The first damper 80A moderates pressure fluctuations of the ink and stabilizes the ejection operation of the ink from the first ink head 21A. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the first damper 80A includes a case body 82 and a pressure sensitive film 83. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 6, the case main body 82 has a hollow structure in which an opening 82A is formed on one surface (the right surface in FIG. 6). The case main body 82 is typically made of a resin material. The pressure sensitive film 83 is attached to the outer wall surface of the case main body 82 so as to cover the opening 82A. The first storage chamber 81A is a space surrounded by the case body 82 and the pressure-sensitive membrane 83. As shown in FIG. The pressure-sensitive film 83 is made of, for example, a flexible resin film. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the pressure-sensitive film 83 is configured to be flexibly deformable according to the amount of ink stored in the first storage chamber 81A and the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A. there is The pressure-sensitive membrane 83 is flexurally deformable to the inside and outside of the first storage chamber 81A. The pressure-sensitive membrane 83 is attached to the case main body 82 with such tension that it can be bent toward the inside and outside of the first storage chamber 81A.

As shown in FIG. 6, a spring 85 is provided in the first storage chamber 81A. The spring 85 is arranged in the first storage chamber 81A in a compressed state and imparts an elastic force to the pressure sensitive membrane 83. As shown in FIG. Here, the spring 85 is in contact with the surface of the pressure-sensitive membrane 83 on the side of the first storage chamber 81A. The type of spring 85 is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, the spring 85 is a coil spring. A pressing body 86 is provided on the pressure sensitive film 83 . The pressing body 86 is supported by the spring 85 . The pressing body 86 can move inside and outside the first storage chamber 81A by following the bending deformation of the pressure sensitive film 83 .

As shown in FIG. 6, the first detection device 90A has a lever 84. As shown in FIG. The lever 84 is provided on the case main body 82 so as to be able to contact the pressing body 86 . In this embodiment, the case main body 82 is provided with a support spring 87 , and the lever 84 is supported by the support spring 87 . The shape of the lever 84 is not particularly limited. Here, the lever 84 is formed in a substantially U shape. Specifically, on the right side of the pressing body 86, the lever 84 includes a contact portion 84A extending in the front-rear direction, a support portion 84B extending leftward from the rear end of the contact portion 84A, and a support portion 84B extending leftward from the front end of the contact portion 84A. It has a detected part 84C extending to. A pressing body 86 can come into contact with the contact portion 84A. The support portion 84B is supported by a support spring 87. As shown in FIG. The detected portion 84C is a portion detected by a detecting portion 95, which will be described later. As shown in FIG. 6, the lever 84 moves to the first position when the pressure-sensitive film 83 bends toward the inside of the first reservoir 81A (that is, when the ink in the first reservoir 81A decreases and the pressure drops). It moves toward the storage chamber 81A. As shown in FIG. 7, the lever 84 is moved to the first position when the pressure-sensitive film 83 bends to the outside of the first reservoir 81A (that is, when the ink in the first reservoir 81A increases and the pressure increases). It moves away from the storage chamber 81A.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the first detection device 90A has a detection section 95 . The detection unit 95 includes, for example, a light-emitting unit 91 having a light-emitting element that emits light such as infrared light, and a light-receiving unit 92 having a light-receiving element that detects the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 91 . The light emitting portion 91 and the light receiving portion 92 are arranged so as to face each other. A detection region 93 is provided between the light emitting portion 91 and the light receiving portion 92 . The first detection device 90A can detect whether the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is equal to or less than a predetermined pressure based on the change in the position of the lever 84. FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, as the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A increases, the pressure sensitive membrane 83 bends outward from the first storage chamber 81A. At this time, the pressing body 86 pushes the lever 84 to the outside of the first storage chamber 81A, so that the lever 84 rotates about the support spring 87 as an axis. Then, when the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A exceeds a predetermined pressure, the detected portion 84C of the lever 84 moves out of the detection area 93 of the first detection device 90A. In the first detection device 90A, when the detected portion 84C of the lever 84 is not positioned between the light emitting portion 91 and the light receiving portion 92 (that is, the detection area 93), the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is a predetermined pressure. Detect greater than .

As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 10 has a capping device 41 . The capping device 41 is provided inside the main body case 50 . The capping device 41 is arranged to the right of the platen 15 . As shown in FIG. 8, the capping device 41 includes four first caps 42A detachable from the first ink head 21A, four second caps 42B detachable from the second ink head 21B, and a cap moving cap. It has a mechanism 43, a first suction pump 44A, and a second suction pump 44B. The first cap 42A, the second cap 42B and the cap moving mechanism 43 are arranged at the home position HP located at the right end of the guide rail 13 (see FIG. 2). Here, the home position HP is a position where the carriage 22, the first ink head 21A, and the second ink head 21B wait when waiting for printing, that is, when printing is not performed. However, the position of the home position HP is not particularly limited, and may be the left end of the guide rail 13 . 8 and 9, illustration of the first damper 80A and the second damper 80B is omitted.

The first cap 42A and the second cap 42B are formed by curing the ink adhered to the first nozzles 23A of the first ink head 21A and the second nozzles 23B (see FIG. 4) of the second ink head 21B. It is a member that suppresses clogging of the second nozzle 23B. The first cap 42A and the second cap 42B are arranged in the main scanning direction Y. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B are attached to the first ink head 21A and the second ink head 21B, respectively, during printing standby, and the first nozzle surface 24A and the second nozzle surface 24B. That is, when the carriage 22 moves to the home position HP, the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B are attached to the first ink head 21A and the second ink head 21B, respectively.

The cap moving mechanism 43 supports the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B. The cap moving mechanism 43 is a mechanism for detachably moving the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B with respect to the first ink head 21A and the second ink head 21B, respectively. In this embodiment, the cap moving mechanism 43 vertically moves the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B. Although the configuration of the cap moving mechanism 43 is not particularly limited, it includes a drive motor 43A, for example. By driving the drive motor 43A, the cap moving mechanism 43 vertically moves the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B. The cap moving mechanism 43 moves the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B to the cap position CP (see FIG. 9) by moving the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B upward. Here, the cap position CP is a position where the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B cover the first nozzle surface 24A of the first ink head 21A and the second nozzle surface 24B of the second ink head 21B. Thereby, the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B are attached to the first ink head 21A and the second ink head 21B, respectively. When the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B are attached to the first ink head 21A and the second ink head 21B, respectively, the first closed space 48A (Fig. 9) is formed, and a second closed space 48B (see FIG. 9) is formed between the second cap 42B and the second nozzle surface 24B. When starting printing, the cap moving mechanism 43 moves the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B downward to separate the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B from the cap position CP (see FIG. 9). Move to position DP (see FIG. 8). Here, the separation position DP is a position where the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B are separated from the first nozzle surface 24A and the second nozzle surface 24B. Thereby, the first cap 42A and the second cap 42B are removed from the first ink head 21A and the second ink head 21B, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 9, the first suction pump 44A sucks the fluid (for example, ink) in the first sealed space 48A in a state where the first cap 42A is attached to the first ink head 21A, and the first suction pump 44A A first suction operation is performed to eject ink from the nozzles 23A (see FIG. 4). The second suction pump 44B sucks the fluid (for example, ink) in the second sealed space 48B in a state where the second cap 42B is attached to the second ink head 21B, and the second nozzle 23B (see FIG. 4) A second suction operation for ejecting ink is performed. By driving the first suction pump 44A and the second suction pump 44B, the pressure in the first sealed space 48A and the second sealed space 48B becomes lower than atmospheric pressure (that is, negative pressure). As a result, ink is forcibly discharged from the first nozzles 23A of the first ink head 21A and the second nozzles 23B of the second ink head 21B. Note that ink is not stored in the first storage chamber 81A and the second storage chamber 81B when the printer 10 is initialized. The negative pressure in 81A and second storage chamber 81B becomes extremely high (for example, about -80 kPa to -100 kPa). A suction port of the first suction pump 44A is connected to the first cap 42A via a flexible tube 45A. A suction port of the second suction pump 44B is connected to the second cap 42B via a flexible tube 45B. Discharge ports of the first suction pump 44A and the second suction pump 44B are connected to the waste liquid tank 49 . The fluid in the first sealed space 48A sucked by the first suction pump 44A and the fluid in the second sealed space 48B sucked by the second suction pump 44B are stored in the waste liquid tank 49. FIG. The first suction pump 44A and the second suction pump 44B are controlled by the control device 30 (see FIG. 2). The first suction pump 44A and the second suction pump 44B are controlled independently of each other.

As shown in FIG. 10, the overall operation of printer 10 is controlled by control device 30 . The configuration of the control device 30 is not particularly limited. The control device 30 is, for example, a microcomputer. The hardware configuration of the microcomputer is not particularly limited. central processing unit), ROM (read only memory) that stores programs executed by the CPU, RAM (random access memory) that is used as a working area for developing programs, and memory that stores programs and various data a storage device; As shown in FIG. 2 , the control device 30 is provided inside the body case 50 . However, the control device 30 may not be provided inside the main body case 50 . For example, the control device 30 may be a computer or the like installed outside the printer 10 . In this case, the control device 30 is communicably connected to the printer 10 via wire or wireless.

As shown in FIG. 10, the control device 30 includes a first ink head 21A, a second ink head 21B, a carriage motor 8a, a feed motor 17a, a first supply pump 68A, a second supply pump 68B, a first detection device 90A, It is communicably connected to the second detection device 90B, the drive motor 43A, the first suction pump 44A and the second suction pump 44B. The control device 30 controls the first ink head 21A, the second ink head 21B, the carriage motor 8a, the feed motor 17a, the first supply pump 68A, the second supply pump 68B, the drive motor 43A, the first suction pump 44A and the second suction. Controls pump 44B.

As shown in FIG. 10, the control device 30 includes a first suction start section 31A, a first storage section 32A, a first supply start section 33A, a first suction stop section 34A, and a first supply stop section 35A. , a second suction start section 31B, a second storage section 32B, a second supply start section 33B, a second suction stop section 34B, and a second supply stop section 35B. The functions of each part of the control device 30 are realized by a program. This program is read from a recording medium such as a CD or DVD. Note that this program may be downloaded through the Internet. Also, the function of each unit of the control device 30 may be realized by a processor and/or a circuit or the like. The specific functions of these units will be described later.

Next, a method for supplying ink from the first ink cartridge 25A to the first ink head 21A will be described. FIG. 11 shows, for example, before using the printer 10 for the first time or after replacing parts such as the first ink head 21A and the first damper 80A, ink is supplied from the first ink cartridge 25A to the first ink head 21A. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure which carries out. Here, a case in which ink is not stored in the first storage chamber 81A will be described as an example, but the procedure is the same even if ink is stored in the first storage chamber 81A.

First, in step S110, the controller 30 drives the drive motor 43A to move the cap moving mechanism 43 upward to attach the first cap 42A to the first ink head 21A. At this time, the second cap 42B is similarly attached to the second ink head 21B.

In step S120, the first suction start part 31A removes the fluid in the first sealed space 48A in a state where the first intermediate part 65A is closed between the first damper 80A and the first upstream end part 62A. A first suction operation of sucking by the first suction pump 44A is started. The first suction starter 31A drives the suction pump 44A. As a result, the negative pressure between the first sealed space 48A and the first supply pump 68A gradually increases (that is, the absolute pressure gradually decreases). Here, the control device 30 drives the motor 75 of the first supply pump 68A to rotate the rotating disk 74 by a predetermined amount in the direction of the arrow R1 in FIG. As a result, the pressing body 73 stops with a portion of the tube 72 closed. This closes the first intermediate portion 65A between the first damper 80A and the first upstream end portion 62A.

In step S130, control device 30 determines whether the pressure in first storage chamber 81A is equal to or less than a predetermined pressure. When the lever 84 of the first detection device 90A blocks the detection area 93, the control device 30 determines that the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is equal to or less than a predetermined pressure. Step S130 is repeated until the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is determined to be equal to or lower than the predetermined pressure. On the other hand, if it is determined that the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is equal to or lower than the predetermined pressure, the process proceeds to step S140.

In step S140, the first storage unit 32A stores the first time, which is the time when the pressure inside the first storage chamber 81A becomes equal to or less than a predetermined pressure. When there are a plurality of first storage chambers 81A communicating with one first suction pump 44A, the time when the pressure in all the first storage chambers 81A becomes equal to or less than a predetermined pressure is defined as the first time.

In step S150, the control device 30 determines whether the first elapsed time has passed since the first time. The first elapsed time is stored in the control device 30 in advance. It is set so that when the first suction pump 44A is driven for the first elapsed time after the first time, the negative pressure in the first storage chamber 81A rises to an appropriate level (that is, the absolute pressure further decreases). . Step S150 is repeated until it is determined that the first elapsed time has elapsed from the first time. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first elapsed time has elapsed from the first time, the process proceeds to step S160.

In step S160, the first supply starter 33A drives the first supply pump 68A to direct the ink from the first ink cartridge 25A to the first ink head 21A when a predetermined first elapsed time has elapsed from the first time. to start supplying ink. Here, the first supply starter 33A drives the motor 75 of the first supply pump 68A to rotate the rotating disk 74 in the direction of arrow R2 in FIG. As a result, the pressing body 73 moves the ink in the tube 72 from the first ink cartridge 25A toward the first damper 80A. Here, since the first suction pump 44A is driven, the ink supplied from the first ink cartridge 25A toward the first damper 80A flows from the first nozzles 23A of the first ink head 21A to the first cap 42A. It is forcibly discharged and flows into the waste liquid tank 49 .

In step S170, control device 30 determines whether the first drive time has elapsed after driving first supply pump 68A. The first driving time is stored in the control device 30 in advance. The first driving time is set based on the ink supply amount per unit time of the first supply pump 68A, the volume of the first storage chamber 81A, the properties of the ink to be used, and the like. Step S170 is repeated until it is determined that the first driving time has elapsed after driving the first supply pump 68A. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first drive time has elapsed since the first supply pump 68A was driven, the process proceeds to step S180.

In step S180, the first suction stop section 34A stops the first suction operation. That is, the first suction stop section 34A stops driving the first suction pump 44A. In this way, by driving the first suction pump 44A for the first driving time, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of color mixture due to reverse flow of ink between the adjacent first ink heads 21A.

In step S190, control device 30 determines whether the pressure in first storage chamber 81A is greater than a predetermined pressure. The control device 30 determines that the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is higher than a predetermined pressure when the lever 84 of the first detection device 90A is out of the detection area 93 . Step S190 is repeated until it is determined that the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is higher than the predetermined pressure. On the other hand, if it is determined that the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is higher than the predetermined pressure, the process proceeds to step S200.

In step S200, the first supply stop section 35A stops driving the first supply pump 68A. Here, the first supply stop section 35A stops driving the motor 75 of the first supply pump 68A. As a result, the rotation of the rotating disk 74 is stopped, and the movement of the ink inside the tube 72 by the pressing body 73 is stopped. If there are a plurality of first storage chambers 81A, it is determined in step S190 whether the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is greater than a predetermined pressure for each first storage chamber 81A. At this time, the driving of the first supply pump 68A is stopped. That is, there may be a time period during which some of the first supply pumps 68A are driven and some of the other first supply pumps 68A are not driven. When the drive of the first supply pump 68A stops, the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is approximately -0.1 kPa. In the flowchart described above, steps S190 and S200 are performed after step S180, but steps S190 and S200 may be performed after step S160, that is, at the same time as steps S170 and S180.

Next, a method for supplying ink from the second ink cartridge 25B to the second ink head 21B will be described. FIG. 12 shows, for example, before using the printer 10 for the first time or after replacing parts such as the second ink head 21B and the second damper 80B, ink is supplied from the second ink cartridge 25B to the second ink head 21B. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure which carries out. Here, a case in which ink is not stored in the second storage chamber 81B will be described as an example, but the procedure is the same even if ink is stored in the second storage chamber 81B.

First, in step S310, the controller 30 drives the drive motor 43A to move the cap moving mechanism 43 upward to attach the second cap 42B to the second ink head 21B. At this time, the first cap 42A is similarly attached to the first ink head 21A. Note that step S310 is normally performed at the same timing as step S110.

In step S320, the second suction starting portion 31B removes the fluid in the second closed space 48B in a state where the second intermediate portion 65B is closed between the second damper 80B and the second upstream end portion 62B. A second suction operation of sucking by the second suction pump 44B is started. The second suction starter 31B drives the suction pump 44B. As a result, the negative pressure between the second sealed space 48B and the second supply pump 68B gradually increases (that is, the absolute pressure gradually decreases). Here, the control device 30 drives the motor 75 of the second supply pump 68B to rotate the rotating disk 74 by a predetermined amount in the direction of the arrow R1 in FIG. As a result, the pressing body 73 stops with a portion of the tube 72 closed. This closes the second intermediate portion 65B between the second damper 80B and the second upstream end portion 62B. Note that step S320 is normally performed at the same timing as step S120.

In step S330, the control device 30 determines whether the pressure inside the second storage chamber 81B is equal to or less than a predetermined pressure. When the lever 84 of the second detection device 90B blocks the detection area 93, the control device 30 determines that the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B is equal to or less than a predetermined pressure. Step S330 is repeated until the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B is determined to be equal to or lower than the predetermined pressure. On the other hand, if it is determined that the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B is equal to or less than the predetermined pressure, the process proceeds to step S340.

In step S340, the second storage unit 32B stores the second time, which is the time when the pressure inside the second storage chamber 81B becomes equal to or less than the predetermined pressure. When there are a plurality of second storage chambers 81B communicating with one second suction pump 44B, the second time is the time when the pressure in all the second storage chambers 81B becomes equal to or less than a predetermined pressure.

In step S350, the control device 30 determines whether the first elapsed time has elapsed from the second time. It is set so that when the second suction pump 44B is driven for the first elapsed time from the second time, the negative pressure in the second storage chamber 81B rises to an appropriate level (that is, the absolute pressure further decreases). . Step S350 is repeated until it is determined that the first elapsed time has elapsed from the second time. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first elapsed time has elapsed from the second time, the process proceeds to step S360.

In step S360, the second supply starter 33B drives the second supply pump 68B to direct the ink from the second ink cartridge 25B to the second ink head 21B when a predetermined first elapsed time has elapsed from the second time. to start supplying ink. Here, the second supply starting section 33B drives the motor 75 of the second supply pump 68B to rotate the rotating disk 74 in the direction of arrow R2 in FIG. As a result, the pressing body 73 moves the ink inside the tube 72 from the second ink cartridge 25B toward the second damper 80B. Here, since the second suction pump 44B is driven, the ink supplied from the second ink cartridge 25B toward the second damper 80B flows from the second nozzles 23B of the second ink head 21B to the second cap 42B. It is forcibly discharged and flows into the waste liquid tank 49 .

In step S370, the controller 30 determines whether the second drive time has elapsed since the second supply pump 68B was driven. The second driving time is stored in the control device 30 in advance. The second drive time is set based on the ink supply amount per unit time of the second supply pump 68B, the volume of the second storage chamber 81B, the properties of the ink used, and the like. Step S370 is repeated until it is determined that the second drive time has elapsed after the second supply pump 68B is driven. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first drive time has elapsed since the second supply pump 68B was driven, the process proceeds to step S380.

In step S380, the second suction stop section 34B stops the second suction operation. That is, the second suction stop section 34B stops driving the second suction pump 44B. In this way, by driving the second suction pump 44B for the second drive time, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of color mixture due to reverse flow of ink between the adjacent second ink heads 21B.

In step S390, control device 30 determines whether the pressure in second storage chamber 81B is higher than a predetermined pressure. The control device 30 determines that the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B is higher than a predetermined pressure when the lever 84 of the second detection device 90B is out of the detection area 93. Step S390 is repeated until it is determined that the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B is higher than the predetermined pressure. On the other hand, if it is determined that the pressure inside the second storage chamber 81B is higher than the predetermined pressure, the process proceeds to step S400.

In step S400, the second supply stop section 35B stops driving the second supply pump 68B. Here, the second supply stop section 35B stops driving the motor 75 of the second supply pump 68B. As a result, the rotation of the rotating disk 74 is stopped, and the movement of the ink inside the tube 72 by the pressing body 73 is stopped. If there are a plurality of second storage chambers 81B, it is determined in step S390 whether the pressure inside the second storage chambers 81B is greater than a predetermined pressure. At this time, the driving of the second supply pump 68B is stopped. That is, there may be a time period during which some of the second supply pumps 68B are driven and some of the other second supply pumps 68B are not driven. When the driving of the second supply pump 68B is stopped, the pressure inside the second storage chamber 81B is approximately -0.1 kPa. In the flowchart described above, the processes of steps S390 and S400 are performed after step S380, but the processes of steps S390 and S400 may be performed after step S360, that is, at the same time as steps S370 and S380.

As described above, according to the printer 10 of the present embodiment, the first supply start section 33A is set to the predetermined first elapsed time from the first time, which is the time when the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A becomes equal to or less than the predetermined pressure. When the time elapses, the first supply pump 68A is driven to supply ink from the first ink cartridge 25A to the first ink head 21A. Here, the inventor believes that the performance of the first supply pump 68A and the first ink path 60A are required for the time required for the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A to become equal to or less than a predetermined pressure (that is, a predetermined negative pressure). I noticed that there are variations due to the flow path resistance etc. Further, when the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A becomes equal to or less than a predetermined pressure, the inventor drives the first suction pump 44A for a certain period of time after that, so that the inside of the first storage chamber 81A and the first ink path I have noticed that the vacuum in the 60A can be adjusted to the desired value. Therefore, according to the above configuration, when the first supply pump 68A is driven to start supplying ink to the first ink head 21A, the negative pressure in the first storage chamber 81A and the first ink path 60A is Since the pressure is adjusted appropriately, an appropriate amount of ink can be supplied into the first storage chamber 81A without causing problems in the first damper 80A and the first ink path 60A.

According to the printer 10 of this embodiment, the first detection device 90A detects that the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A is equal to or lower than the predetermined pressure when the detection area 93 is blocked by the lever 84 . By converting the change in the pressure inside the first storage chamber 81A into the movement of the lever 84 in this manner, the pressure inside the first storage chamber 81A can be easily detected.

According to the printer 10 of the present embodiment, the first supply pump 68A includes a tube 72 inside which ink flows and which is elastically deformable, and a tube 72 that presses the tube 72 to close the tube 72 and separates from the tube 72 to open the tube. and a pressing body 73 for opening 72 . The pressing body 73 is configured to move the ink inside the tube 72 by moving while pressing a part of the tube 72 . Thus, the first supply pump 68A has a function of opening and closing the first ink path 60A and a function of supplying ink from the first ink cartridge 25A to the first ink head 21A. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide another mechanism (for example, a valve) for opening and closing the first intermediate portion 65A of the first ink path 60A.

According to the printer 10 of the present embodiment, the second supply starter 33B operates when the predetermined first elapsed time elapses from the second time when the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B becomes equal to or less than the predetermined pressure. Then, the second intermediate portion 65B is opened and the second supply pump 68B is driven to supply ink from the second ink cartridge 25B to the second ink head 21B. Thus, in the second ink path 60B independent of the first ink path 60A, the second supply pump 68B is driven when the predetermined first elapsed time elapses from the second time, and the second ink head 21B is driven. Ink supply is started toward . Here, when the predetermined first elapsed time has elapsed from the second time, the negative pressure in the second reservoir 81B and the second ink path 60B is the negative pressure in the first reservoir 81A and the first ink path 60A. Since the pressure is adjusted to an appropriate level like the pressure, an appropriate amount of ink can be supplied into the second storage chamber 81B without causing problems in the second damper 80B and the second ink path 60B. .

According to the printer 10 of this embodiment, the process color ink is stored in the first ink cartridge 25A, and the sedimentary ink is stored in the second ink cartridge 25B. Since the pigment contained in the sedimentation ink is relatively large, it tends to have a large resistance when flowing through the second ink path 60B. Therefore, in a state where sedimentary ink exists in the second storage chamber 81B, the time required to suck the ink from the second nozzle 23B and reduce the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B to a predetermined pressure or less is the process time. It tends to be longer than in the case of color ink. However, in this embodiment, the ink supply timing is set based on when the pressure in the second storage chamber 81B becomes equal to or lower than the predetermined pressure. An appropriate amount of ink can be supplied into the second storage chamber 81B.

The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the above-described embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention can be embodied in various other forms.

In the embodiment described above, the first supply pump 68A and the second supply pump 68B were tube pumps, but are not limited to this. The first supply pump 68A and the second supply pump 68B may be diaphragm pumps.

Although the first suction pump 44A is connected to the four first caps 42A in the above-described embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, one to three first caps 42A may be connected to one first suction pump 44A. The same applies to the second suction pump 44B and the second cap 42B.

The printer 10 described above may include a valve configured to open or close the first intermediate portion 65A of the first ink path 60A. The valve may be arranged, for example, in the first intermediate portion 65A so as to be positioned between the first ink cartridge 25A and the first supply pump 68A. Further, the printer 10 described above may include a valve configured to open or close the second intermediate portion 65B of the second ink path 60B. A valve may be arranged in the second intermediate portion 65B so as to be positioned between the second ink cartridge 25B and the second supply pump 68B.

In each embodiment described above, the first detection device 90A and the second detection device 90B include the lever 84, the light emitting section 91 and the light receiving section 92, but are not limited to this. The structures of the first detection device 90A and the second detection device 90B are not particularly limited as long as they are sensors capable of detecting the pressure in the first storage chamber 81A and the second storage chamber 81B.

10 Printer 21A First ink head 30 Control device 31A First suction start section 32A First storage section 33A First supply start section 34A First suction stop section 35A First supply stop section 44A First suction pump 60A First ink path 65A First intermediate portion 68A First supply pump 80A First damper 81A First storage chamber 90A First detection device

Claims (6)

a first ink head having a plurality of first nozzles for ejecting ink onto a recording medium; and a first nozzle surface on which the plurality of first nozzles are formed;
a first upstream end detachably connected to a first ink cartridge that stores ink; a first downstream end connected to the first ink head; a first intermediate portion positioned between the first downstream end;
a first ink supply device disposed in the first intermediate portion, configured to be able to open and close the first intermediate portion, and supplying ink from the first ink cartridge toward the first ink head;
a first damper having a first storage chamber in which ink is temporarily stored, and arranged in the first intermediate portion so as to be positioned between the first ink supply device and the first ink head;
a first detection device that detects the pressure in the first storage chamber;
A first cap that is detachably attached to the first ink head and that covers the first nozzle surface and forms a first closed space with the first nozzle surface when attached to the first ink head. and,
a first suction pump for sucking the fluid in the first sealed space;
a control device that controls the first ink head, the first ink supply device, and the first suction pump;
The control device is
A first suction operation of sucking the fluid in the first sealed space by the first suction pump in a state where the first damper and the first upstream end of the first intermediate portion are closed. a first suction initiation unit that initiates
a first storage unit that stores a first time that is the time when the pressure in the first storage chamber becomes equal to or less than a predetermined pressure;
A first supply for starting supply of ink from the first ink cartridge to the first ink head by driving the first ink supply device when a predetermined first elapsed time has elapsed from the first time. an opening;
a first suction stopping unit that stops the first suction operation when a predetermined first driving time has elapsed after driving the first ink supply device;
and a first supply stop unit that stops driving the first ink supply device when the pressure in the first storage chamber exceeds the predetermined pressure. The first damper is
a hollow case body having an opening;
a pressure-sensitive membrane attached to the case body so as to cover the opening of the case body, defining the first storage chamber together with the case body, and being flexibly deformable inside and outside the first storage chamber; prepared,
The first detection device moves toward the first storage chamber when the pressure-sensitive membrane bends toward the inside of the first storage chamber, and the pressure-sensitive membrane extends outside the first storage chamber. a lever that moves in a direction away from the first storage chamber when bent, a light emitting part that emits a predetermined light, and a light receiving part that receives the light emitted from the light emitting part;
A detection region is provided between the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit,
2. The inkjet printer according to claim 1, wherein said first detection device detects that the pressure in said first storage chamber is equal to or less than said predetermined pressure when said lever blocks said detection area. The first ink supply device includes a tube in which ink flows and which is elastically deformable, and a pressing body that presses the tube to close the tube and separates from the tube to open the tube. prepared,
3. The inkjet printer according to claim 1, wherein said pressing body moves ink in said tube by moving while pressing a part of said tube. a second ink head having a plurality of second nozzles for ejecting ink onto a recording medium; and a second nozzle surface on which the plurality of second nozzles are formed;
a second upstream end detachably connected to a second ink cartridge that stores ink; a second downstream end connected to the second ink head; a second intermediate portion located between two downstream ends;
a second ink supply device disposed in the second intermediate portion, configured to be able to open and close the second intermediate portion, and supplying ink from the second ink cartridge toward the second ink head;
a second damper having a second storage chamber in which ink is temporarily stored, and arranged in the second intermediate portion so as to be positioned between the second ink supply device and the second ink head;
a second detection device that detects the pressure in the second storage chamber;
a second cap which is detachably attached to the second ink head and which covers the second nozzle surface and forms a second sealed space between itself and the second nozzle surface when attached to the second ink head; and,
a second suction pump that sucks the fluid in the second closed space;
The control device controls the second ink head, the second ink supply device and the second suction pump, and
A second suction operation of sucking the fluid in the second sealed space by the second suction pump in a state where the second intermediate portion is closed between the second damper and the second upstream end. a second suction initiation unit that initiates
a second storage unit that stores a second time that is the time when the pressure in the second storage chamber becomes equal to or less than the predetermined pressure;
A second ink supply device for driving the second ink supply device to start supplying ink from the second ink cartridge to the second ink head when the predetermined first elapsed time has elapsed from the second time. a supply initiation unit;
a second suction stop section for stopping the second suction operation when a predetermined second drive time has elapsed after driving the second ink supply device;
4. The ink cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a second supply stopping unit that stops driving the second ink supply device when the pressure in the second storage chamber exceeds the predetermined pressure. 1. The inkjet printer according to item 1. Process color ink is stored in one of the first ink cartridge and the second ink cartridge, and sedimentation ink is stored in the other of the first ink cartridge and the second ink cartridge. The inkjet printer according to claim 4. a first ink head having a plurality of first nozzles for ejecting ink onto a recording medium; and a first nozzle surface on which the plurality of first nozzles are formed;
a first upstream end detachably connected to a first ink cartridge that stores ink; a first downstream end connected to the first ink head; a first intermediate portion positioned between the first downstream end;
a first ink supply device disposed in the first intermediate portion, configured to be able to open and close the first intermediate portion, and supplying ink from the first ink cartridge toward the first ink head;
a first damper having a first storage chamber in which ink is temporarily stored, and arranged in the first intermediate portion so as to be positioned between the first ink supply device and the first ink head;
a first detection device that detects the pressure in the first storage chamber;
A first cap that is detachably attached to the first ink head and that covers the first nozzle surface and forms a first closed space with the first nozzle surface when attached to the first ink head. and,
and a first suction pump for sucking fluid in the first sealed space, an ink supply method for supplying ink from the first ink cartridge to the first ink head, comprising:
A first suction operation of sucking the fluid in the first sealed space by the first suction pump in a state where the first damper and the first upstream end of the first intermediate portion are closed. to start
storing a first time that is the time at which the pressure in the first storage chamber becomes equal to or less than a predetermined pressure;
When a predetermined first elapsed time elapses from the first time, driving the first ink supply device to start supplying ink from the first ink cartridge to the first ink head;
stopping the first suction operation when a predetermined first driving time has elapsed after driving the first ink supply device;
and stopping the driving of the first ink supply device when the pressure in the first storage chamber exceeds the predetermined pressure.

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