JP7027763B2 - Liquid discharge device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a liquid discharge device in which two or more pressure chambers are provided for one or two or more nozzles.

A liquid discharge device in which two or more pressure chambers are provided for one or two or more nozzles is known (see FIG. 3 of Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, two pressure chambers are provided for one nozzle, and a piezoelectric body is provided for each pressure chamber. The drive circuit constantly drives one of the two piezoelectric bodies (actuator) to the extent that the droplet is not ejected from the nozzle regardless of the droplet ejection pattern (paragraph 0069).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2009-208445

However, in Patent Document 1, since a part of the plurality of actuators is constantly driven, the part of the actuator is driven and deteriorated faster than the remaining actuators other than the part.

An object of the present invention is to provide a liquid discharge device capable of suppressing drive deterioration of an actuator.

The liquid discharge device according to the first aspect of the present invention has a plurality of nozzles, a common flow path communicating with the plurality of nozzles, and a plurality of pressure chambers provided between the common flow path and the plurality of nozzles. A plurality of actuators facing each of the plurality of pressure chambers and a control unit for controlling the drive of the plurality of actuators are provided, and the plurality of nozzles may be selected from one or more of the plurality of nozzles. Each of the plurality of pressure chambers includes a plurality of unit nozzles configured therein, and the plurality of pressure chambers communicate with each other without passing through the common flow path among the plurality of pressure chambers and communicate with any of the plurality of unit nozzles. A plurality of unit pressure chambers each composed of the above pressure chambers are included, and the plurality of pressure chambers include a plurality of first pressure chambers arranged in the arrangement direction and a plurality of first pressure chambers arranged in the arrangement direction and the arrangement direction. A plurality of second pressure chambers arranged side by side with each of the plurality of first pressure chambers in an intersecting crossing direction are included, and the plurality of unit pressure chambers are each one of the plurality of first pressure chambers and the said one. The plurality of actuators are composed of one first pressure chamber and one of the plurality of second pressure chambers arranged in the crossing direction, and the plurality of actuators are a plurality of firsts facing each of the plurality of first pressure chambers. The control unit includes one actuator and a plurality of second actuators facing each of the plurality of second pressure chambers, and the control unit ejects the liquid in the plurality of nozzles without ejecting droplets from the plurality of nozzles. In the non-discharging operation of vibrating, during the first drive period, the first selection actuator composed of one or more of the plurality of first actuators, the plurality of second actuators, and the plurality of first actuators. The first actuator other than the first selection actuator and the second selection actuator composed of one or more second actuators arranged in the crossing direction are driven, and in the second drive period after the first drive period , Among the plurality of first actuators, the first actuator other than the first selection actuator and the second actuator other than the second selection actuator among the plurality of second actuators are driven .
The liquid discharge device according to the second aspect of the present invention has a plurality of nozzles, a common flow path communicating with the plurality of nozzles, and a plurality of pressure chambers provided between the common flow path and the plurality of nozzles. A plurality of actuators facing each of the plurality of pressure chambers and a control unit for controlling the drive of the plurality of actuators are provided, and the plurality of nozzles may be selected from one or more of the plurality of nozzles. Each of the plurality of pressure chambers includes a plurality of unit nozzles configured therein, and the plurality of pressure chambers communicate with each other without passing through the common flow path among the plurality of pressure chambers and communicate with any of the plurality of unit nozzles. The control unit includes a plurality of unit pressure chambers each composed of the above pressure chambers, and the control unit is in a non-discharge operation in which the liquid in the plurality of nozzles is vibrated without ejecting droplets from the plurality of nozzles. A part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the first drive period, and a part other than the part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the second drive period after the first drive period, and the part of the plurality of actuators is driven. It is characterized in that the first drive period is terminated and the second drive period is started when the number of pulses of the applied non-discharge drive signal reaches a threshold value.
The liquid discharge device according to the third aspect of the present invention has a plurality of nozzles, a common flow path communicating with the plurality of nozzles, and a plurality of pressure chambers provided between the common flow path and the plurality of nozzles. A plurality of actuators facing each of the plurality of pressure chambers and a control unit for controlling the drive of the plurality of actuators are provided, and the plurality of nozzles may be selected from one or more of the plurality of nozzles. The plurality of pressure chambers include a plurality of unit nozzles, each of which is configured, and the plurality of pressure chambers communicate with each other without passing through the common flow path among the plurality of pressure chambers and communicate with any of the plurality of unit nozzles. The control unit includes a plurality of unit pressure chambers each composed of the above pressure chambers, and the control unit is in a non-discharge operation in which the liquid in the plurality of nozzles is vibrated without ejecting droplets from the plurality of nozzles. A part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the first drive period, and a part other than the part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the second drive period after the first drive period, and the nozzles are discharged from the plurality of nozzles. The first driving period is terminated and the second driving period is started when the number of recording media on which an image is formed by droplets reaches a threshold value.
The liquid discharge device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention has a plurality of nozzles, a common flow path communicating with the plurality of nozzles, and a plurality of pressure chambers provided between the common flow path and the plurality of nozzles. A plurality of actuators facing each of the plurality of pressure chambers and a control unit for controlling the drive of the plurality of actuators are provided, and the plurality of nozzles may be selected from one or more of the plurality of nozzles. The plurality of pressure chambers include a plurality of unit nozzles, each of which is configured, and the plurality of pressure chambers communicate with each other without passing through the common flow path among the plurality of pressure chambers and communicate with any of the plurality of unit nozzles. The control unit includes a plurality of unit pressure chambers each composed of the above pressure chambers, and the control unit is in a non-discharge operation in which the liquid in the plurality of nozzles is vibrated without ejecting droplets from the plurality of nozzles. A part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the first drive period, and a part other than the part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the second drive period after the first drive period, and the nozzles are discharged from the plurality of nozzles. It is characterized in that the first driving period is terminated and the second driving period is started when the image formed by the droplets is switched.

It is a top view of the printer 100 which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a top view of the head 1 included in a printer 100. It is sectional drawing of the head 1 along the line III-III of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of a printer 100. It is a graph which shows an example of the non-discharge drive signal Sa1, Sa2 and the discharge drive signal Sb. It is a figure corresponding to FIG. 2 which shows the driving state of the actuator 12x in the non-discharge operation in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure corresponding to FIG. 6 which shows the driving state of the actuator 12x in the non-discharge operation in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure corresponding to FIG. 6 which shows the driving state of the actuator 12x in the non-discharge operation in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure corresponding to FIG. 6 which shows the driving state of the actuator 12x in the non-discharge operation in 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flow figure which shows the control content of the non-discharge operation in 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flow figure which shows the control content of the non-discharge operation in 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flow figure which shows the control content of the non-discharge operation in the 6th Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing corresponding to FIG. 3 of the head 701 in 7th Embodiment of this invention.

<First Embodiment>
As shown in FIG. 1, the printer 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a head 1, a carriage 2, a platen 3, a transport mechanism 4, and a control unit 5.

Paper 9 is placed on the upper surface of the platen 3.

The carriage 2 is supported by two guide rails 2a and 2b above the platen 3 and is connected to the endless belt 2c. When the carriage drive motor 2m is driven by the control of the control unit 5, the endless belt 2c travels and the carriage 2 moves in the scanning direction along the guide rails 2a and 2b.

The head 1 is a serial type, is attached to the carriage 2, and moves in the scanning direction together with the carriage 2. A plurality of nozzles 11n (see FIGS. 2 and 3) are formed on the lower surface of the head 1.

The transport mechanism 4 has two roller pairs 4a and 4b arranged so as to sandwich the platen 3 in the transport direction. When the transport motor 4m (see FIG. 4) is driven by the control of the control unit 5, the roller pairs 4a and 4b rotate while sandwiching the paper 9, and the paper 9 is conveyed in the transport direction.

The control unit 5 has a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The ASIC executes recording processing and the like according to the program stored in the ROM. In the recording process, the control unit 5 sets the driver IC 1d (see FIG. 4), the carriage drive motor 2m, and the transport motor 4m of the head 1 based on a recording command (including image data) input from an external device such as a PC. Control and record an image on paper 9. Specifically, the ejection operation of ejecting ink droplets from the nozzle 11n while moving the head 1 together with the carriage 2 in the scanning direction, and the conveying operation of conveying a predetermined amount of paper 9 in the conveying direction by the roller pairs 4a and 4b. Let them do it alternately.

Next, the configuration of the head 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

The head 1 has a flow path board 11 and an actuator unit 12.

As shown in FIG. 3, the flow path substrate 11 has six plates 11a to 11f bonded to each other. A plurality of pressure chambers 11m are formed on the plate 11a. A plurality of nozzles 11n are formed on the plate 11f. A supply flow path 11x and a return flow path 11y are formed on the plate 11d. The supply flow path 11x and the return flow path 11y are common flow paths (common flow paths) for the plurality of pressure chambers 11m.

As shown in FIG. 2, the pressure chambers 11m are arranged in an arrangement direction along the transport direction, and constitute a first pressure chamber row 11mR1 and a second pressure chamber row 11mR2. In other words, the pressure chambers 11m are arranged in the arrangement direction and are arranged in the arrangement direction with a plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1 constituting the first pressure chamber row 11mR1 and a plurality of first pressure chambers arranged in the arrangement direction and constituting the second pressure chamber row 11mR2. It has two pressure chambers of 11 m2. The plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2 are arranged in the intersecting direction with each of the plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1. The crossing direction is a direction that intersects with the arrangement direction, and in the present embodiment, it intersects both the scanning direction and the transporting direction.

The nozzles 11n are arranged in the arrangement direction between the first pressure chamber row 11mR1 and the second pressure chamber row 11mR2 to form one nozzle row.

Two pressure chambers 11m (one of a plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1 and one of a plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2) arranged in the crossing direction sandwich one nozzle 11n in the crossing direction. Two pressure chambers 11m arranged in the crossing direction correspond to the unit pressure chamber 11mu, and one nozzle 11n sandwiched between these two pressure chambers 11m in the crossing direction corresponds to the unit nozzle 11nu. The two pressure chambers 11m constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu communicate with each other without passing through either the supply flow path 11x or the feedback flow path 11y, and communicate with one nozzle 11n constituting the unit nozzle 11nu. There is.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the two pressure chambers 11m constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu have a flow path 11p formed in the plates 11b to 11d and a flow path 11w formed in the plate 11e. Through, they communicate with each other. Further, the two pressure chambers 11m constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu communicate with one nozzle 11n constituting the unit nozzle 11nu via the flow paths 11p and 11w, respectively. The flow path 11w is provided for each nozzle 11n and extends in the crossing direction above each nozzle 11n (see FIG. 2). The flow path 11p is provided for each pressure chamber 11m. The flow path 11p provided for the first pressure chamber 11m1 has one end in the scanning direction in the first pressure chamber 11m1 (one end close to the second pressure chamber row 11mR2) 11m1a and one end in the scanning direction in the flow path 11w (first). 1 One end near the pressure chamber row 11mR1) 11wa is connected and extends in the vertical direction. The flow path 11p provided for the second pressure chamber 11m2 has one end (one end near the first pressure chamber row 11mR1) 11m2a in the scanning direction in the second pressure chamber 11m2 and the other end 11wb in the scanning direction in the flow path 11w. It is connected to and extends in the vertical direction. As described above, the flow path that allows the two pressure chambers 11m constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu to communicate with each other does not include the supply flow path 11x and the return flow path 11y. The other end 11m1b in the scanning direction in the first pressure chamber 11m1 and the other end 11m2b in the scanning direction in the second pressure chamber 11m2 are the supply flow paths 11x and the other end 11m2b in the second pressure chamber 11m2 via the drawing flow paths 11t formed in the plates 11b and 11c. It communicates with each of the return channels 11y.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the two pressure chambers 11m constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu are in a symmetrical positional relationship with respect to the central axis of one nozzle 11n constituting the unit nozzle 11nu.

As shown in FIG. 2, the supply flow path 11x and the return flow path 11y extend in the arrangement direction. The supply flow path 11x communicates with a plurality of nozzles 11n via a plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1 constituting the first pressure chamber row 11mR1. The return flow path 11y communicates with a plurality of nozzles 11n via a plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2 constituting the second pressure chamber row 11mR2. The first pressure chamber 11m1 is provided between the supply flow path 11x and the nozzle 11n. The second pressure chamber 11m2 is provided between the feedback flow path 11y and the nozzle 11n.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the supply flow path 11x and the return flow path 11y are in a symmetrical positional relationship with respect to the central axis of one nozzle 11n constituting the unit nozzle 11nu. Further, a flow path from one nozzle 11n constituting the unit nozzle 11nu to the supply flow path 11x via one first pressure chamber 11m1 constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu, and one nozzle constituting the unit nozzle 11nu. The flow path from 11n to the feedback flow path 11y via one second pressure chamber 11m2 constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu is symmetrical with respect to the central axis of one nozzle 11n constituting the unit nozzle 11nu. There is a positional relationship.

A plurality of nozzles 11n are opened on the lower surface of the flow path substrate 11 (lower surface of the plate 11f).

A plurality of pressure chambers 11m, a supply port 11x1 and a return port 11y1 are opened on the upper surface of the flow path substrate 11 (upper surface of the plate 11a). The supply port 11x1 and the return port 11y1 communicate with the supply flow path 11x and the return flow path 11y formed in the plate 11d via a flow path (not shown) penetrating the plates 11a to 11c, respectively.

The supply port 11x1 and the return port 11y1 are connected to the storage chamber 7a of the sub tank 7 via a tube or the like. The sub tank 7 is mounted on the carriage 2 together with the head 1. The storage chamber 7a communicates with a main tank (not shown) for storing ink, and stores ink supplied from the main tank. The ink in the storage chamber 7a flows into the supply flow path 11x from the supply port 11x1 by the drive of the circulation pump 7p, and is supplied to a plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1 constituting the first pressure chamber row 11mR1. A part of the ink supplied to the first pressure chamber 11m1 is ejected from the nozzle 11n, and the rest flows into a plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2 constituting the second pressure chamber row 11mR2 and passes through the return flow path 11y. It is returned to the storage chamber 7a. That is, ink circulates between the head 1 and the sub tank 7. By driving the second actuator 12x2, which will be described later, the ink in the second pressure chamber 11m2 can also be ejected from the nozzle 11n via the flow path 11p.

As shown in FIG. 2, the actuator unit 12 is arranged on the upper surface of the flow path substrate 11 (upper surface of the plate 11a) and covers a plurality of pressure chambers 11m.

As shown in FIG. 3, the actuator unit 12 includes a diaphragm 12a, a common electrode 12b, a piezoelectric body 12c, and a plurality of individual electrodes 12d in this order from the bottom. The diaphragm 12a, the common electrode 12b, and the piezoelectric body 12c cover a plurality of pressure chambers 11m. On the other hand, the individual electrodes 12d are provided for each pressure chamber 11m and face each of the pressure chambers 11m.

The portion of the diaphragm 12a and the piezoelectric body 12c sandwiched between the individual electrode 12d and the pressure chamber 11m functions as an actuator 12x that can be deformed by applying a voltage to the individual electrode 12d. That is, the actuator unit 12 has a plurality of actuators 12x facing each of the plurality of pressure chambers 11m. The actuator 12x is composed of a plurality of first actuators 12x1 facing each of the plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1 constituting the first pressure chamber row 11mR1 and a plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2 constituting the second pressure chamber row 11mR2. Includes a plurality of second actuators 12x2 facing each other.

By driving the actuator 12x (for example, deforming so as to be convex toward the pressure chamber 11m) in response to the application of a voltage to the individual electrode 12d, the volume of the pressure chamber 11m changes, and the pressure chamber 11m changes. Pressure is applied to the ink inside.

Here, the drive of the actuator 12x will be specifically described.

The individual electrode 12d is electrically connected to the driver IC 1d. The driver IC 1d generates a drive signal for driving the actuator 12x (including the non-discharge drive signals Sa1 and Sa2 and the discharge drive signal Sb shown as an example in FIG. 5) based on the control signal from the control unit 5. , The drive signal is applied to the individual electrodes 12d. As a result, the potential of the individual electrode 12d changes between the predetermined drive potential and the ground potential. The common electrode 12b is maintained at the ground potential.

When the potential of the individual electrode 12d changes from the ground potential to the driving potential, a potential difference occurs between the individual electrode 12d and the common electrode 12b. As a result, an electric field parallel to the thickness direction of the piezoelectric body 12c acts on the portion (active portion) sandwiched between the individual electrode 12d and the pressure chamber 11m in the piezoelectric body 12c. At this time, when the polarization direction of the active portion (thickness direction of the piezoelectric body 12c) and the direction of the electric field match, the active portion extends in the thickness direction of the piezoelectric body 12c and contracts in the plane direction of the piezoelectric body 12c. .. With the contraction deformation of the active portion, the actuator 12x is deformed so as to be convex toward the pressure chamber 11m. As a result, the volume of the pressure chamber 11m is reduced, and energy is applied to the ink in the pressure chamber 11m. At this time, when the ejection drive signal Sb is applied to the individual electrodes 12d, ink droplets are ejected from the nozzle 11n communicating with the pressure chamber 11m (ejection operation). When the non-ejection drive signal Sa1 or Sa2 is applied to the individual electrode 12d, ink droplets are not ejected from the nozzle 11n communicating with the pressure chamber 11m, and the ink (meniscus) in the nozzle 11n vibrates (non-ejection operation). ). The non-ejection operation suppresses the drying of the ink in the nozzle 11n.

In the example shown in FIG. 5, the non-discharge drive signals Sa1 and Sa2 include two pulses in one discharge cycle. The discharge drive signal Sb includes four pulses in one discharge cycle. The drive potentials of the non-discharge drive signals Sa1 and Sa2 are lower than the drive potential of the discharge drive signal Sb, and are substantially half of the drive potential of the discharge drive signal Sb. The frequencies of the non-discharge drive signals Sa1 and Sa2 are lower than the frequency of the discharge drive signal Sb and are substantially half the frequency of the discharge drive signal Sb.

The discharge drive signal Sb shown in FIG. 5 is an example. For example, when changing the amount of ink droplets ejected in one ejection cycle (when performing gradation recording), the driver IC1d is driven by a plurality of types (for example, large, medium, and small ejection amounts). A signal is generated and each discharge drive signal is applied to the corresponding individual electrode 12d.

The ejection operation is selectively performed in the plurality of nozzles 11n based on the image data. At this time, ink droplets are ejected from the selected nozzle 11n among the plurality of nozzles 11n at a predetermined timing.

Further, in the ejection operation, the ink ejected from the unit nozzle 11nu is ejected by simultaneously driving both the first actuator 12x1 and the second actuator 12x2 facing the unit pressure chamber 11mu (two pressure chambers 11m arranged in the intersecting direction). The flight speed of the drops can be increased. Further, by adjusting the drive potential of the first actuator 12x1 and the second actuator 12x2 facing the unit pressure chamber 11mu (two pressure chambers 11m arranged in the intersecting direction) and the application timing of the pulse, the ink is discharged from the unit nozzle 11nu. The flight direction of the ink droplets can be changed.

The non-ejection operation may be performed when the period during which ink droplets are not ejected (non-ejection period) in all nozzles 11n is a predetermined time or longer. The non-ejection operation may be performed during standby (a period during which the recording process is not executed), or during the recording process (for example, immediately before the ejection operation is started. Also, recording on a plurality of sheets 9 is performed. In such cases, it may be performed after the recording on one sheet of paper 9 is completed and before the recording on the next sheet 9 is performed, etc.).

In the non-discharge operation, the control unit 5 assigns the non-discharge drive signal Sa1 shown in FIG. 5 to each of the individual electrodes A hatched in FIG. 6 among the plurality of actuators 12x, and the hatch is attached in FIG. The non-discharge drive signal Sa2 shown in FIG. 5 is applied to each of the individual electrodes B that are not provided.

As a result, the actuator 12x corresponding to the individual electrode A is driven in the first drive period T1, and the actuator 12x corresponding to the individual electrode B is driven in the second drive period T2 after the first drive period T1. That is, during the first drive period T1, a plurality of first actuators (individual electrode A) sandwiching one other first actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B) in the arrangement direction among the plurality of first actuators 12x1. The corresponding actuator) and the second actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A) arranged in the crossing direction with the other first actuator among the plurality of second actuators 12x2 are driven. During the second drive period T2, the first actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B) of the plurality of first actuators 12x1 and the other first actuator of the plurality of second actuators 12x2 A second actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B) sandwiching the second actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A) arranged in the crossing direction in the arrangement direction is driven.

In each of the first drive period T1 and the second drive period T2, the plurality of actuators 12x are driven every other row in each row along the arrangement direction and in a staggered pattern in the two rows. In the first drive period T1 and the second drive period T2, a part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A) and the rest (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B) are alternately driven. Will be done.

Further, when focusing on the unit pressure chamber 11mu (two pressure chambers 11m arranged in the intersecting direction), one of the two actuators 12x (corresponding to the individual electrode A) facing the two pressure chambers 11m constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu. The actuator) and the other (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B) are driven alternately.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the control unit 5 drives a part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuators corresponding to the individual electrodes A) in the first drive period T1 and in the second drive period T2. , Other than the above-mentioned part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuators corresponding to the individual electrodes B) are driven (see FIG. 6). In this case, since a part of the plurality of actuators 12x is not constantly driven, it is possible to suppress drive deterioration of the actuator 12x as a whole.

In the first drive period T1, among the plurality of first actuators 12x1, a plurality of first actuators (corresponding to the individual electrode A) sandwiching one other first actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B) in the arrangement direction. The actuator (actuator = first-choice actuator) and the second actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A = second-choice actuator) lined up in the crossing direction with the other first actuator among the plurality of second actuators 12x2 are driven. To. During the second drive period T2, among the plurality of first actuators 12x1, the other first actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B = the first actuator other than the first selection actuator) and the plurality of second actuators 12x2 Of these, the second actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B = actuator other than the second selection actuator) sandwiching the second actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A) arranged in the crossing direction with the other first actuator in the arrangement direction. 2 Actuators) and are driven (see FIG. 6). In this case, compared to the case where all of the plurality of actuators 12x are driven at the same time in each row along the arrangement direction, the fluid crosstalk (the supply flow path 11x in which the pressure wave generated in the pressure chamber 11 m is a common flow path) or The phenomenon of propagating to another pressure chamber via the return flow path 11y) can be suppressed.

The frequencies of the non-discharge drive signals Sa1 and Sa2 are lower than the frequencies of the discharge drive signals Sb (see FIG. 5). In this case, the drive deterioration of the actuator 12x due to the non-discharge operation can be further suppressed as compared with the case where the frequency of the non-discharge drive signals Sa1 and Sa2 is the same as or higher than the frequency of the discharge drive signal Sb.

One (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A) and the other (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B) of the two actuators 12x facing the two pressure chambers 11m constituting the unit pressure chamber 11 mu are alternately driven. In order to prevent the ink in the unit nozzle 11nu from drying out, if only one of the above two actuators 12x is driven, the drive deterioration of the one actuator 12x progresses, and the actuator 12x facing the unit pressure chamber 11mu is driven as a whole. There is concern about deterioration. On the other hand, according to the above configuration, by alternately driving the two actuators 12x, the ink in the unit nozzle 11nu is dried while suppressing the drive deterioration of the actuator 12x facing the unit pressure chamber 11mu as a whole. Can be prevented.

<Second Embodiment>
Subsequently, the printer according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 7. In this embodiment, the drive pattern of the actuator 12x in the non-discharge operation is different from that in the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the control unit 5 is hatched in FIG. 7 among the plurality of actuators 12x in the non-ejection operation in which the ink in the nozzle 11n is vibrated without ejecting the ink droplets from the nozzle 11n of the head 1. The non-discharge drive signal Sa1 shown in FIG. 5 is given to each of the individual electrodes A, and the non-discharge drive signal Sa2 shown in FIG. 5 is given to each of the individual electrodes B not hatched in FIG. 7.

As a result, the actuator 12x corresponding to the individual electrode A is driven in the first drive period T1, and the actuator 12x corresponding to the individual electrode B is driven in the second drive period T2 after the first drive period T1. That is, during the first drive period T1, among the plurality of first actuators 12x1, a plurality of first actuators (actuators corresponding to the individual electrodes B) sandwiching the two other first actuators (actuators corresponding to the individual electrodes B) in the arrangement direction (in the individual electrodes A). (Corresponding actuator = first-select actuator) and the second actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A = second-select actuator) lined up in the crossing direction with the above two other first actuators among the plurality of second actuators 12x2. And are driven. In the second drive period T2, among the plurality of first actuators 12x1, the above two other first actuators (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B = the first actuator other than the first selection actuator) and the plurality of second actuators. Of the actuators 12x2, the second actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B = second selection) sandwiching the second actuator (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A) arranged in the crossing direction with the above two other first actuators in the arrangement direction. A second actuator other than the actuator) is driven.

In each of the first drive period T1 and the second drive period T2, the plurality of actuators 12x are driven in every other row in each row along the arrangement direction and in a staggered pattern in the two rows. In the first drive period T1 and the second drive period T2, a part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A) and the rest (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B) are alternately driven. Will be done.

Further, when focusing on the unit pressure chamber 11mu (two pressure chambers 11m arranged in the intersecting direction), as in the first embodiment, one of the two actuators 12x facing the two pressure chambers 11m constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu. (Actuator corresponding to individual electrode A) and the other (actuator corresponding to individual electrode B) are driven alternately.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the drive pattern of the actuator 12x in the non-discharge operation is different from that of the first embodiment, but by providing the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, the first embodiment is provided. The same effect as the morphology can be obtained.

<Third Embodiment>
Subsequently, the printer according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the arrangement of the pressure chamber 11 m is different from that in the first embodiment.

In the head 31 of the present embodiment, the plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2 are arranged in an intersecting direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction with each of the plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1. The individual electrodes 12d are also arranged in the arrangement direction according to the arrangement of the pressure chamber 11m, and form two rows arranged in the crossing direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction.

That is, in the first embodiment, the crossing direction is a direction not orthogonal to the arrangement direction, but in the present embodiment, the crossing direction is a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction. In the first embodiment, the pressure chamber 11m1 of the first pressure chamber row 11mR1 and the pressure chamber 11m2 of the second pressure chamber row 11mR2 are displaced in the arrangement direction, and the pressure chambers 11m are arranged in a staggered manner. In the embodiment, the pressure chamber 11m1 of the first pressure chamber row 11mR1 and the pressure chamber 11m2 of the second pressure chamber row 11mR2 are located at the same position in the arrangement direction, and the pressure chambers 11m are not arranged in a staggered manner.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the arrangement of the pressure chamber 11 m is different from that of the first embodiment, but by providing the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment is provided. Can be obtained.

<Fourth Embodiment>
Subsequently, the printer according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. In this embodiment, the control content in the non-discharge operation and the drive pattern of the actuator 12x are different from those in the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 5 first determines whether or not to start the non-discharge operation (S1). For example, the control unit 5 determines that the non-ejection operation is started (S1: YES) when the period during which ink droplets are not ejected from all the nozzles 11n (non-ejection period) exceeds a predetermined time.

When the control unit 5 determines that the non-discharge operation is started (S1: YES), the control unit 5 applies a non-discharge drive signal to each of the individual electrodes A hatched in FIG. 9 among the plurality of actuators 12x (S1: YES). S2). At the same time, the control unit 5 starts counting the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to each of the individual electrodes A.

After S2, the control unit 5 determines whether or not to terminate the non-discharge operation (S3). When the non-discharging operation is not terminated (S3: NO), the control unit 5 determines whether or not the number of pulses of the non-discharging drive signal given to each of the individual electrodes A exceeds the threshold value based on the count value of the number of pulses. Is determined (S4). When the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to each of the individual electrodes A is not equal to or greater than the threshold value (S4: NO), the control unit 5 returns the process to S3.

When the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to each of the individual electrodes A is equal to or greater than the threshold value (S4: YES), the control unit 5 ends the application of the non-discharge drive signal to the individual electrodes A (S5). ). At the same time, the control unit 5 resets the count value of the number of pulses.

After S5, the control unit 5 switches the rotation direction of the circulation pump 7p from the forward direction to the reverse direction (S6). As a result, the ink circulation direction is switched between the head 1 and the sub tank 7. Specifically, as shown by a thick arrow in FIG. 9, a common flow path 411x, a plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1, a plurality of nozzles 11n, a plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2, and a common flow path 411y are provided from the storage chamber 7a. Ink flows through the storage chamber 7a in this order and returned to the storage chamber 7a from the storage chamber 7a to a common flow path 411y, a plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2, a plurality of nozzles 11n, and a plurality of nozzles, as shown by the white arrows in FIG. The ink flows through the first pressure chamber 11m1 and the common flow path 411x in this order and returns to the storage chamber 7a.

The common flow path 411x has the same configuration as the supply flow path 11x of the first embodiment, and the common flow path 411y has the same configuration as the return flow path 11y of the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, the common flow paths 411x and 411y are a supply flow path for supplying ink from the storage chamber 7a to the plurality of pressure chambers 11m according to the rotation direction of the circulation pump 7p, and a storage chamber from the plurality of pressure chambers 11m. It switches between the return flow path for returning the ink to 7a and the return flow path.

After S6, the control unit 5 assigns a non-discharge drive signal to each of the individual electrodes B not hatched in FIG. 9 (S7). At the same time, the control unit 5 starts counting the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to each of the individual electrodes B.

After S7, the control unit 5 determines whether or not to terminate the non-discharge operation (S8). When the non-discharging operation is not terminated (S8: NO), the control unit 5 determines whether or not the number of pulses of the non-discharging drive signal given to each of the individual electrodes B exceeds the threshold value based on the count value of the number of pulses. Is determined (S9). When the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to each of the individual electrodes B is not equal to or greater than the threshold value (S9: NO), the control unit 5 returns the process to S8.

When the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to each of the individual electrodes B is equal to or greater than the threshold value (S9: YES), the control unit 5 ends the application of the non-discharge drive signal to the individual electrode B (S10). ). At the same time, the control unit 5 resets the count value of the number of pulses.

After S10, the control unit 5 switches the rotation direction of the circulation pump 7p from the reverse direction to the forward direction (S11). As a result, the ink circulation direction is switched between the head 1 and the sub tank 7. Specifically, as shown by the white arrows in FIG. 9, the common flow path 411y, the plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2, the plurality of nozzles 11n, the plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1, and the common flow path 411x from the storage chamber 7a. Ink flows back to the storage chamber 7a in this order from the storage chamber 7a to a common flow path 411x, a plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1, a plurality of nozzles 11n, and a plurality of nozzles, as shown by a thick arrow in FIG. The ink flows through the second pressure chamber 11m2 and the common flow path 411y in this order and returns to the storage chamber 7a.

After S11, the control unit 5 returns the process to S2. Further, when the control unit 5 determines that the non-discharge operation is terminated in S3 or S8, the control unit 5 terminates the control routine related to the non-discharge operation.

The count value of the number of pulses is maintained even if the non-discharging operation is once completed, until it is reset in S5 or S10.

In the present embodiment, S2 to S5 correspond to the "first drive period", and S7 to S10 correspond to the "second drive period". During the first drive period, a part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A) is driven, and during the second drive period, other than the above part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B). Is driven (see FIG. 9). Then, after the first drive period and before the second drive period (S6), the flow of ink from the storage chamber 7a to the storage chamber 7a via the plurality of pressure chambers 11m is switched in the opposite direction.

Further, it can be said that S7 to S10 correspond to the "first drive period", and S2 to S5 after S11 correspond to the "second drive period". During the first drive period, a part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B) is driven, and during the second drive period, other than the above part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A). Is driven (see FIG. 9). Then, after the first drive period and before the second drive period (S11), the flow of ink returning from the storage chamber 7a to the storage chamber 7a via the plurality of pressure chambers 11m is switched in the opposite direction.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the control content in the non-discharge operation and the drive pattern of the actuator 12x are different from those in the first embodiment, but by providing the same configuration as in the first embodiment. The same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

In the non-discharging operation, the control unit 5 drives the actuator facing the supply pressure chamber (pressure chamber 11m communicating with the supply flow path without passing through any of the plurality of nozzles 11n) among the plurality of actuators 12x. The actuator facing the feedback pressure chamber (pressure chamber 11m communicating with the feedback flow path without passing through any of the plurality of nozzles 11n) is not driven. In the case of the ink flow indicated by the thick arrow in FIG. 9, the common flow path 411x corresponds to the “supply flow path”, the pressure chamber 11m facing the individual electrode A corresponds to the “supply pressure chamber”, and the common flow path 411y Corresponds to the "return flow path", and the pressure chamber 11m facing the individual electrode B corresponds to the "return pressure chamber". In the case of the ink flow indicated by the white arrow in FIG. 9, the common flow path 411y corresponds to the “supply flow path”, and the pressure chamber 11m facing the individual electrode B corresponds to the “supply pressure chamber”, and the common flow path corresponds to the common flow path. 411x corresponds to the “feedback flow path”, and the pressure chamber 11m facing the individual electrode A corresponds to the “return pressure chamber”. In this case, by driving the actuator 12x along the circulating ink flow, the ink flow is not obstructed. As a result, it is possible to suppress the generation of bubbles and further promote the discharge of bubbles. Specifically, since the direction of the ink flow driven by the circulation pump 7p and the direction of the ink flow driven by the actuator 12x are the same, the ink flow is not obstructed. Therefore, the generation of bubbles is suppressed. Further, the air bubbles in the head 1 can be smoothly discharged to the storage chamber 7a via the return flow path.

After the first drive period and before the second drive period (S6; S11), the control unit 5 switches the flow of ink from the storage chamber 7a to the storage chamber 7a via the plurality of pressure chambers 11m in the opposite direction. In this case, the actuator 12x that always faces the supply pressure chamber can be driven by simple control.

When the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to the individual electrodes A or B exceeds the threshold value (S4: YES; S9: YES), the control unit 5 ends the first drive period and ends the second drive period. To start. That is, the drive of a part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode A or B) is terminated, and the drive of a part other than the above part of the plurality of actuators 12x (actuator corresponding to the individual electrode B or A) is started. Let me. In this case, it is possible to suppress a difference in the degree of drive deterioration due to the non-discharge operation between a part and a part of the plurality of actuators 12x.

<Fifth Embodiment>
Subsequently, the printer according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the drive pattern of the actuator 12x in the non-discharge operation is the same as that in the fourth embodiment (see FIG. 9), but the control content in the non-discharge operation is different from that in the fourth embodiment.

In the fourth embodiment, the control unit 5 ends the first drive period when the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to the individual electrodes A or B is equal to or greater than the threshold value (S4: YES; S9: YES). And start the second drive period. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the number of recorded sheets 9 exceeds the threshold value (S4a: YES; S9a: YES), the control unit 5 ends the first drive period and ends the second drive period. To start.

Specifically, in the present embodiment, when the control unit 5 determines that the non-discharge operation is started (S1: YES), the individual electrode A hatched in FIG. 9 is selected from the plurality of actuators 12x. A non-discharge drive signal is applied to each (S2). At the same time, the control unit 5 starts counting the number of recorded sheets 9.

When the non-ejection operation is not terminated (S3: NO), the control unit 5 determines whether or not the number of recorded sheets 9 exceeds the threshold value based on the count value of the number of recorded sheets 9 (S3: NO). S4a). When the number of recorded sheets 9 is not equal to or greater than the threshold value (S4a: NO), the control unit 5 returns the process to S3.

When the number of recorded sheets 9 exceeds the threshold value (S4a: YES), the control unit 5 ends the addition of the non-ejection drive signal to the individual electrode A (S5). At the same time, the control unit 5 resets the count value of the number of recorded sheets 9.

After switching the rotation direction of the circulation pump 7p from the forward direction to the reverse direction in S6, the control unit 5 applies a non-discharge drive signal to each of the individual electrodes B not hatched in FIG. 9 (S7). At the same time, the control unit 5 starts counting the number of recorded sheets 9.

After S7, the control unit 5 determines whether or not to terminate the non-discharge operation (S8). When the non-ejection operation is not terminated (S8: NO), the control unit 5 determines whether or not the number of recorded sheets 9 exceeds the threshold value based on the count value of the number of recorded sheets 9 (S8: NO). S9a). If the number of recorded sheets 9 is not equal to or greater than the threshold value (S9a: NO), the control unit 5 returns the process to S8.

When the number of recorded sheets 9 exceeds the threshold value (S9a: YES), the control unit 5 ends the addition of the non-ejection drive signal to the individual electrode B (S10). At the same time, the control unit 5 resets the count value of the number of recorded sheets 9.

After switching the rotation direction of the circulation pump 7p from the reverse direction to the forward direction in S11, the control unit 5 returns the process to S2.

The count value of the number of recorded sheets 9 is retained even if the non-ejection operation is once completed, until it is reset in S5 or S10.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the control content in the non-discharge operation is different from that of the fourth embodiment, but the same configuration as that of the fourth embodiment is provided, so that the control content is the same as that of the fourth embodiment. The effect of can be obtained.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

When the number of recorded sheets 9 exceeds the threshold value (S4a: YES; S9a: YES), the control unit 5 ends the first drive period and starts the second drive period. In this case, it is possible to suppress a difference in the degree of drive deterioration due to the non-discharge operation between a part and a part of the plurality of actuators 12x.

<Sixth Embodiment>
Subsequently, the printer according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the drive pattern of the actuator 12x in the non-discharge operation is the same as that in the fourth embodiment (see FIG. 9), but the control content in the non-discharge operation is different from that in the fourth embodiment.

In the fourth embodiment, the control unit 5 ends the first drive period when the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to the individual electrodes A or B is equal to or greater than the threshold value (S4: YES; S9: YES). And start the second drive period. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the control unit 5 changes the image to be recorded on the paper 9 to a new image (the image formed by the ink droplets ejected from the plurality of nozzles is switched) ( S4b: YES; S9b: YES), the first drive period is ended, and the second drive period is started.

For example, when the image data included in the recording command includes data of a plurality of images, the recorded image is recorded when the recording of one image on one or a plurality of sheets 9 is completed and the next image is recorded. It is judged that it has been changed. Alternatively, when the image data included in the recording command includes the data of one image, it is determined that the recorded image has been changed when the recording based on the recording command is completed and the recording based on the next recording command is performed. Will be done.

Specifically, in the present embodiment, when the control unit 5 determines that the non-discharge operation is started (S1: YES), the individual electrode A hatched in FIG. 9 is selected from the plurality of actuators 12x. A non-discharge drive signal is applied to each (S2).

When the non-discharge operation is not terminated (S3: NO), the control unit 5 determines whether or not the recorded image has been changed (S4b). If the recorded image has not been changed (S4b: NO), the control unit 5 returns the process to S3.

When the recorded image is changed (S4b: YES), the control unit 5 ends the addition of the non-discharge drive signal to the individual electrode A (S5). Then, after switching the rotation direction of the circulation pump 7p from the forward direction to the reverse direction in S6, the control unit 5 applies a non-discharge drive signal to each of the individual electrodes B not hatched in FIG. 9 (S7). ).

After S7, the control unit 5 determines whether or not to terminate the non-discharge operation (S8). When the non-discharge operation is not terminated (S8: NO), the control unit 5 determines whether or not the recorded image has been changed (S9b). If the recorded image has not been changed (S9b: NO), the control unit 5 returns the process to S8.

When the recorded image is changed (S9b: YES), the control unit 5 ends the addition of the non-discharge drive signal to the individual electrode B (S10). Then, after switching the rotation direction of the circulation pump 7p from the reverse direction to the forward direction in S11, the control unit 5 returns the process to S2.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the control content in the non-discharge operation is different from that of the fourth embodiment, but the same configuration as that of the fourth embodiment is provided, so that the control content is the same as that of the fourth embodiment. The effect of can be obtained.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

When the recorded image is changed (S4b: YES; S9b: YES), the control unit 5 ends the first drive period and starts the second drive period. In this case, it is possible to suppress a difference in the degree of drive deterioration due to the non-discharge operation between a part and a part of the plurality of actuators 12x.

<7th Embodiment>
Subsequently, the printer according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the configuration of the unit nozzle 11nu is different from that in the first embodiment.

In the first embodiment, the unit nozzle 11nu is composed of one nozzle 11n (see FIG. 3), but in the present embodiment, the unit nozzle 11nu is composed of two nozzles 11n.

In the head 1, two pressure chambers 11m constituting the unit pressure chamber 11mu (one of the first pressure chambers 11m1 constituting the first pressure chamber row 11mR1) and the second pressure chamber constituting the second pressure chamber row 11mR2. One of 11m2) communicates with each other without passing through either the supply flow path 11x or the return flow path 11y, and communicates with the two nozzles 11n constituting the unit nozzle 11nu. The two nozzles 11n constituting the unit nozzle 11nu are respectively arranged directly below the flow path 11p provided for each pressure chamber 11m of the unit pressure chamber 11mu.

By driving the first actuator 12x1 and / or the second actuator 12x2, ink droplets can be ejected from the two nozzles 11n constituting the unit nozzle 11nu.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the configuration of the unit nozzle 11nu is different from that of the first embodiment, but by providing the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment is obtained. Can be obtained.

<Modification example>
Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various design changes can be made as long as it is described in the claims.

As the common flow path, both the supply flow path and the return flow path are not limited to be provided, and only the supply flow path may be provided. The common flow path may be provided between the two pressure chamber trains. Further, although the common flow path is on the same side (lower side) as the nozzle with respect to the pressure chamber in the above-described embodiment, it may be on the opposite side (upper side) with the nozzle with respect to the pressure chamber.

The number of nozzle rows is one in the above-described embodiment, but may be multiple.

The number of pressure chamber rows is two in the above embodiment, but may be one or three or more.

The arrangement of the nozzles and pressure chambers is arbitrary, and for example, the nozzles and pressure chambers may be arranged randomly without forming a row.

The unit nozzle is not limited to being composed of one nozzle (first to sixth embodiments) or two nozzles (seventh embodiment), and may be composed of three or more nozzles.

The unit pressure chamber is not limited to being composed of two pressure chambers, and may be composed of three or more pressure chambers.

The timing at which the non-discharge operation is performed is arbitrary and is not limited to the timing of the above-described embodiment. For example, during the recording process, when ink droplets are ejected from a part of a plurality of nozzles, a non-ejection operation is performed for nozzles other than the above-mentioned part of the plurality of nozzles (nozzles that do not eject the ink droplets). May be done.

In the non-discharge operation, in the first embodiment, the actuator is driven every other row in each row along the arrangement direction, and in the second embodiment, the actuator is driven every other row in each row along the arrangement direction. , Not limited to this. For example, the actuator may be driven every n (n ≧ 3) in each row along the arrangement direction. Alternatively, in each row along the arrangement direction, a plurality of actuators that do not sandwich another actuator may be driven (for example, from above the plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1 in FIG. 2 during the first driving period. The 1st to 5th and the 1st to 5th from the bottom of the plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2 are driven, and the 1st to 5th from the bottom of the plurality of first pressure chambers 11m1 are driven during the second driving period. , The 1st to 5th from the top of the plurality of second pressure chambers 11m2 may be driven).

In the non-discharge operation, unless a part of the plurality of actuators is constantly driven, for example, one of the two actuators facing each of the two pressure chambers constituting the unit pressure chamber and the other of the two actuators alternate with each other. Two actuators may be driven at the same time without being driven by. Specifically, in two actuators corresponding to a certain unit pressure chamber, one is driven in the first drive period, the other is driven in the second drive period, and one is driven in the third drive period after the second drive period. And the other may both be driven. Further, in the actuator corresponding to a part of the plurality of unit pressure chambers, one and the other are alternately driven, and in the actuator corresponding to the other than a part, both one and the other are driven. good.

The frequency of the non-discharge drive signal may be equal to or higher than the frequency of the discharge drive signal.

The timing at which the first drive period is ended and the second drive period is started is arbitrary and is not limited to the timing of the above-mentioned fourth to sixth embodiments.

The fourth to sixth embodiments (FIG. 9) are configured to circulate ink between the head 1 and the sub tank 7 by driving the circulation pump 7p, and the ink flow by switching the rotation direction of the circulation pump 7p. However, it is not limited to this. For example, in the case of a configuration in which ink is circulated between the head and the sub tank due to the head difference, appropriate control may be performed so that the head difference is reversed.

The actuator is not limited to the piezo type using a piezoelectric element, and may be another type (for example, a thermal method using a heat generating element, an electrostatic method using electrostatic force, etc.).

The head is not limited to the serial type, and may be a line type (that is, a method of discharging the liquid to the recording medium in a fixed position).

The liquid discharge device may include a plurality of heads.

The liquid discharged from the nozzle is not limited to the ink, and may be any liquid (for example, a treatment liquid that aggregates or precipitates the components in the ink).

The recording medium is not limited to paper, and may be any recordable medium (for example, cloth).

The present invention is not limited to printers, and can be applied to facsimiles, copiers, multifunction devices, and the like. The present invention is also applicable to a liquid discharge device used for purposes other than image recording (for example, a liquid discharge device that discharges a conductive liquid onto a substrate to form a conductive pattern).

5 Control unit 7a Storage room 9 Paper (recording medium)
11m pressure chamber 11mu unit pressure chamber 11m1 first pressure chamber 11m2 second pressure chamber 11n nozzle 11nu unit nozzle 11x supply flow path (common flow path)
11y feedback flow path (common flow path)
12x Actuator 12x1 1st Actuator 12x2 2nd Actuator 100 Printer (Liquid Discharge Device)
411x, 411y common flow path (supply flow path, return flow path)
Sa1, Sa2 Non-discharge drive signal Sb Discharge drive signal T1 1st drive period T2 2nd drive period

Claims (10)

With multiple nozzles
A common flow path communicating with the plurality of nozzles and
A plurality of pressure chambers provided between the common flow path and the plurality of nozzles,
A plurality of actuators facing each of the plurality of pressure chambers,
A control unit that controls the drive of the plurality of actuators is provided.
The plurality of nozzles include a plurality of unit nozzles each composed of one or two or more of the plurality of nozzles.
The plurality of pressure chambers are each composed of two or more pressure chambers of the plurality of pressure chambers that communicate with each other without passing through the common flow path and communicate with any of the plurality of unit nozzles. Including unit pressure chamber,
The plurality of pressure chambers include a plurality of first pressure chambers arranged in the arrangement direction, and a plurality of first pressure chambers arranged in the arrangement direction and aligned with each of the plurality of first pressure chambers in an intersecting direction intersecting the arrangement direction. Including the second pressure chamber
The plurality of unit pressure chambers are each from one of the plurality of first pressure chambers and one of the plurality of second pressure chambers arranged in the crossing direction with the one first pressure chamber. Configured,
The plurality of actuators include a plurality of first actuators facing each of the plurality of first pressure chambers and a plurality of second actuators facing each of the plurality of second pressure chambers.
In the non-ejection operation in which the control unit vibrates the liquid in the plurality of nozzles without ejecting the droplets from the plurality of nozzles.
Other than the first selection actuator composed of one or more of the plurality of first actuators and the first selection actuator of the plurality of first actuators among the plurality of second actuators during the first drive period. The first actuator of the above and the second selection actuator composed of one or more second actuators arranged in the crossing direction are driven.
During the second drive period after the first drive period , the first actuator other than the first selection actuator among the plurality of first actuators and the second selection actuator other than the second selection actuator among the plurality of second actuators. A liquid discharge device characterized by driving the second actuator of the above. The first-choice actuator is a plurality of first actuators that sandwich one or more other first actuators in the arrangement direction among the plurality of first actuators.
The liquid discharge device according to claim 1 , wherein the second selection actuator is a second actuator that is aligned with the other first actuator in the crossing direction among the plurality of second actuators. The liquid discharge device according to claim 2 , wherein the first-selection actuator is a plurality of first actuators that sandwich one other first actuator in the arrangement direction among the plurality of first actuators. .. With multiple nozzles
A common flow path communicating with the plurality of nozzles and
A plurality of pressure chambers provided between the common flow path and the plurality of nozzles,
A plurality of actuators facing each of the plurality of pressure chambers,
A control unit that controls the drive of the plurality of actuators is provided.
The plurality of nozzles include a plurality of unit nozzles each composed of one or two or more of the plurality of nozzles.
The plurality of pressure chambers are each composed of two or more pressure chambers of the plurality of pressure chambers that communicate with each other without passing through the common flow path and communicate with any of the plurality of unit nozzles. Including unit pressure chamber,
In the non-ejection operation in which the control unit vibrates the liquid in the plurality of nozzles without ejecting the droplets from the plurality of nozzles.
A part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the first drive period, and a part other than the part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the second drive period after the first drive period .
A liquid discharge characterized by ending the first drive period and starting the second drive period when the number of pulses of the non-discharge drive signal applied to a part of the plurality of actuators reaches a threshold value. Device. With multiple nozzles
A common flow path communicating with the plurality of nozzles and
A plurality of pressure chambers provided between the common flow path and the plurality of nozzles,
A plurality of actuators facing each of the plurality of pressure chambers,
A control unit that controls the drive of the plurality of actuators is provided.
The plurality of nozzles include a plurality of unit nozzles each composed of one or two or more of the plurality of nozzles.
The plurality of pressure chambers are each composed of two or more pressure chambers of the plurality of pressure chambers that communicate with each other without passing through the common flow path and communicate with any of the plurality of unit nozzles. Including unit pressure chamber,
In the non-ejection operation in which the control unit vibrates the liquid in the plurality of nozzles without ejecting the droplets from the plurality of nozzles.
A part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the first drive period, and a part other than the part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the second drive period after the first drive period .
The first drive period is terminated and the second drive period is started when the number of recording media on which an image is formed by droplets ejected from the plurality of nozzles reaches a threshold value. Liquid discharge device. With multiple nozzles
A common flow path communicating with the plurality of nozzles and
A plurality of pressure chambers provided between the common flow path and the plurality of nozzles,
A plurality of actuators facing each of the plurality of pressure chambers,
A control unit that controls the drive of the plurality of actuators is provided.
The plurality of nozzles include a plurality of unit nozzles each composed of one or two or more of the plurality of nozzles.
The plurality of pressure chambers are each composed of two or more pressure chambers of the plurality of pressure chambers that communicate with each other without passing through the common flow path and communicate with any of the plurality of unit nozzles. Including unit pressure chamber,
In the non-ejection operation in which the control unit vibrates the liquid in the plurality of nozzles without ejecting the droplets from the plurality of nozzles.
A part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the first drive period, and a part other than the part of the plurality of actuators is driven in the second drive period after the first drive period .
A liquid ejection device, characterized in that the first drive period is terminated and the second drive period is started when an image formed by droplets ejected from the plurality of nozzles is switched . The common flow path includes a supply flow path for supplying a liquid from a storage chamber for storing a liquid to the plurality of pressure chambers, and a return flow path for returning the liquid from the plurality of pressure chambers to the storage chamber.
The plurality of pressure chambers are a supply pressure chamber that communicates with the supply flow path without passing through any of the plurality of nozzles, and a feedback pressure that communicates with the feedback flow path without passing through any of the plurality of nozzles. Including the room
4. The control unit is characterized in that, in the non-discharge operation, the actuator facing the supply pressure chamber is driven among the plurality of actuators, and the actuator facing the feedback pressure chamber is not driven . Item 6. The liquid discharge device according to any one of 6 . The control unit is characterized in that after the first drive period and before the second drive period, the flow of liquid from the storage chamber to the storage chamber via the plurality of pressure chambers is switched in the opposite direction. The liquid discharge device according to claim 7 . The control unit
In the ejection operation of ejecting droplets from the plurality of nozzles, an ejection drive signal is applied to the plurality of actuators.
The liquid discharge according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein in the non-discharge operation, a non-discharge drive signal having a frequency lower than the frequency of the discharge drive signal is applied to the plurality of actuators. Device. The plurality of unit pressure chambers are each composed of two pressure chambers among the plurality of pressure chambers.
One of claims 1 to 9 , wherein the control unit alternately drives one and the other of the two actuators facing each of the two pressure chambers in the non-discharge operation. The liquid discharge device according to the section.

Images