DE3545689A1 - Ink jet printer - has heating and print head energy control stages to attain optimum operating conditions - Google Patents

Abstract

The printer has a print head mounted on a carriage that moves the length of the machine. Built into the head is an electro thermal converter that is energised to generate ink droplets that are directed onto the surface of the paper. The head is controlled by a unit that receives the character input signal and provides conversion into drive pulse form. The operating conditions for the head unit are determined by a control stage setting the pulse energy and a heating control stage. The heating stage raises the temperature of the ink to suit ambient temperature conditions. The pulse energy stage has a regulating stage to set the drive frequency. ADVANTAGE - Provides optimum printing condition.

Description

i ♦ * *

- -.-. ,, - R .- .. ,, ,,., Λ _ If ■> ■ & · .- «l * / ^ * ... ~.-Ii '*** Patent attorneys and

lEDTKE - DUHLiNG "TVlNNE""^ U ^ UPE.. *: Representative at the EPO

ffr ^ k λ »ϊ», Λ, -, * ■■ ■ ·· * bipl.-lng. H. Tiedtke

Hellmann - Csrams - Otruif _D i _P i, chem. a

-13- Dipl.-Ing. R. Kinne

Dipl.-Ing. R Group Dipl.-Ing. B. Pellmann Dipl.-Ing. K. Grams Dipl.-Chem. Dr. B. Struif

Bavariaring 4, Postfach 202403 8000 Munich 2

Tel .: 089-539653 Telex: 5-24845 tipat Telecopier: 0 89-537377 cable: Germaniapatent Munich December 20, 1985

DE 5409

Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Tokyo, Japan

Liquid discharge recording device

The invention relates to a liquid discharge recording apparatus, in which a liquid in the form of droplets is ejected onto a recording material such as paper or the like are applied to record thereby; in particular the invention relates to a device for ejecting liquid Drawing in which ejection energy is applied to the liquid to form flying droplets of liquid.

The liquid ejection recording method (ink jet recording method) is a recording method that uses various methods of flying Droplets of a recording liquid are formed, on a recording material such as paper or the like are applied, thereby recording.

Of the recording devices (printers) where such a recording method is used as an apparatus having a structure suitable for a recording head having a plurality of nozzle openings in high

Dresdner Bank (Munich) Account 3939 844 Deutsche Bank IMfinch Account 2861060

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Density is suitable, hereinafter referred to as inkjet ' printer designated liquid ejection recording apparatus in which for forming ejected Liquid droplets as energy the heat is used.

Such an ink jet printer that uses as droplet ejection energy utilizing heat generally comprises a droplet forming device and a recording head on. The recording liquid is heated in the droplet forming device and thereby on the same caused a change in shape, which is accompanied by a sudden increase in volume and the Ejecting the recording liquid from a nozzle opening ^ tion (droplet ejection opening) of a nozzle section allows, whereby droplets of the recording liquid are formed. The recording head has a (hereinafter as an ejection heater) electrothermal ^ energy conversion device, which corresponds to the Applying an electrical signal to the heat for that

Can generate heating of the recording liquid.

As a recording liquid for recording with the Ink jet printer is mainly used in consideration of recording property, safety and the like an aqueous recording liquid or a Recording liquid used with water as the basic amount. This aqueous recording liquid is general from a recording material component such as a

Pigment, dye or the like and water or a 30

A solvent component composed mainly of water and a water-soluble organic solvent composed in which the recording material component is resolved or distributed.

In the printer described above in which the

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- 1 . ■

Heat is used as droplet ejection energy and in printers using other droplet formation processes are applied, is in some cases independent of c whether the device or the device is operated or not, always the nozzle opening formed at the end of the nozzle for ejecting the recording liquid open to the ambient air.

, Q If the device is not used for a long period of time Recording is used, therefore, evaporates from the in the nozzle opening and in areas near the nozzle opening remaining recording liquid the solvent component such as water, the volatile c organic solvents or the like from the nozzle opening into the ambient air, since according to the above, the recording liquid is the aqueous Liquid is used. Therefore, remain in the recording liquid the recording medium proportion and

the proportion of non-volatile solvent, whereby 20th

the viscosity of the recording liquid remaining in this area increases. Once the viscosity of the recording liquid becomes one for the ejection of the recording liquid exceeds the appropriate range, problems arise in that immediately after the How-25

the start of recording despite the application of an ejection signal failure of ejection of liquid droplets is likely and in an initial pressure part or the like of a recording image failure

or gaps occur.
30th

On the other hand, although printers have been proposed in which when the apparatus is not in operation, such as for example the power supply is switched off or

Like, the discharge surface is covered in which the 35

Nozzle opening is formed, can even with the Ab-

* ί ·

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do not completely cover the nozzle opening to be sealed against air or airtight. Hence arise also with this kind of. Printer the problems mentioned above.

On the other hand, in ^ Japanese Patent Publication No. 187364/1983 proposed a recording method, in which, even if no droplet ejection signal is applied, an electrical signal is always present a level at which no droplets are ejected is applied to the ejection heater / around the recording liquid to preheat in such a way that the temperature of the recording liquid is constantly on a Value is maintained within a predetermined range so as to increase the viscosity of the recording liquid Good ejection of the liquid droplets is achieved at low temperatures.

However, since the printer in which the above is applied even during a relatively long interruption of the recording the electric signal is applied to the ejection heater so that the recording liquid is always

is kept at high temperatures, the solution-25

middle component more easily from the recording liquid evaporate, creating the problem that, according to the above, at the restart of the Recording the inadequate droplet ejection is even more likely. Furthermore, according to this method, the Surrounding area of the ejection heater is constantly heated, the following problems are caused: the The durability of the parts in the vicinity of the ejection heater is reduced. As a result of

Heating during interruption of recording 35

change the physical properties of the in the

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Recording liquid remaining in the vicinity of the ejection heater so that the color of the recording liquid changes or in the recording liquid Deposits are formed and the nozzle opening is clogged, whereby the droplet ejection is inadequate will or the like. -

Furthermore, immediately after switching on the current, Q Supply the printer the temperature of the ink liquid for recording the environmental conditions such as the ambient temperature and the like. Therefore it is unfavorable for achieving a stable pressure state, start recording by ejecting the ink immediately after switching on the power supply.

It is therefore considered the ink jet printer make so that before the start of the push after turning on the power supply, a pre-ejection is brought about in which the old ink remaining in the head portion of the nozzle is ejected in advance, in order to achieve the optimal ejection of the ink.

__ So far, however, printing has been done via an integrated Circuitry for a channel from a microprocessor (MPU) for controlling the respective sections of the printer. Therefore, it is in the conventional structure due to the Program processing time problem extraordinary

difficult to finely control such an advance, so 3U

that there arises a problem that the optimal preliminary discharge cannot be established.

The object of the invention is to achieve a solution

this .. problems with the prior art a liquid 35

to provide a power output recording device

«Ϊ

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which a special control device is provided for controlling the ejection from a head unit, by means of which preheating and ejecting operations at the start of the recording device or at the start of printing which makes it quick and easy Achieving the optimal ^ pressure state is made possible.

Furthermore, the invention as a recording device is intended to provide an inkjet printer in which brought about a heating in connection with the printing process when the environmental conditions are unfavorable for the recording, as well as when within no subsequent pressure signal is supplied for a predetermined period of time, the heating is interrupted and the head unit is covered, thereby preventing the evaporation of the ink and maintaining the optimal printing condition to maintain.

A further aim of the invention is to create an ink jet printer as a recording device the one for controlling the ejection from the head unit associated control device is provided, by means of which when the printer is switched on or at the beginning of the Appropriate preheating is brought about during the printing process, taking into account the ambient conditions, in order to achieve the optimal printing status quickly and easily.

Furthermore, the invention is intended to provide an inexpensive recorder

tion device are provided in which the recording liquid is heated when the recording head unit is not recording, namely, the drive of a carriage is interrupted; this will reduce the power consumption of the entire device decreased and the power supply part downsized;

3545683

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there is always a good and even output of the

Liquid droplets also when printing at low temperatures or when recording is resumed g after a long pause in recording has elapsed achieved.

Furthermore, the invention as a recording device an inkjet printer can be provided, in which Q the after preheating when the Printer or at the start of printing a frequency is suitably set and then a prefire is brought about, whereby the optimal pressure state can be achieved quickly and reliably.

The invention is explained below on the basis of exemplary embodiments explained in more detail with reference to the drawing.

Figs. 1 to 13 are illustrations showing the overall layout, respectively the liquid ejection recording apparatus of the present invention show according to an embodiment.

14 is a perspective view showing an at-25

game for the design of an inkjet printer as a recording device according to the invention shows.

. Figs. ISA and 15B are enlarged perspective views, respectively

see views of a head unit in the in the 1 to 13, respectively, recording apparatuses and a nozzle unit of the head unit.

Fig. 16 is a block diagram showing an example of 35

the internal circuitry of the ink

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Jet printer as an embodiment of the invention Recording device shows.

Figs. 17A and 17B are flow charts showing an example for a process for print condition optimization show. -

Fig. 18 and 19 are flow charts showing a , Q Example of a preheating process or a Figure 17 shows the prefire process at the process steps shown in Figs. 17A and 17B.

Fig. 20 is a waveform diagram for explaining a print output signal supplied to a head unit.

Fig. 21 is a graphical representation of curves showing the relationship between a feeding time and a temperature, the frequency of which is supplied to the head unit as a parameter Print output signal is used.

FIGS. 1 to 13 each show schematically the overall design of a liquid discharge device according to the invention show direction.

The recording apparatus according to the first example shown in Fig. 1 includes a liquid discharge recording unit 100, a recording unit controller 110 and an ejection controller 150. The recording unit 100 includes an ejection energy dispenser 102, which by applying an electrical signal energy to the liquid

leaves to act to fly droplets of liquid 35

form. This removes the droplets from the recording

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.

ejection unit ejected and onto a recording material P is applied, thereby causing the recording will. From the control device 110, in response to the input of a recording signal SA, the electrical Signal for forming the flying droplets set and fed to the ejection energy ^ dispenser 102. By means of the ejection control device 150, the Recording unit controller 110 the electrical, Q see signal set to form flying droplets when power is turned on; this causes the recording unit 100 to emit and ejecting the droplets.

j. The recording apparatus according to that shown in FIG Second example, the recording unit 100, the recording unit controller 110, includes a Heater 120 and a heat controller 140. The recording unit 100 includes the discharge energy release device 102 with an electrothermal energy converter device, which is based on the supply of an electrical Signal can heat the liquid to form flying liquid droplets. Through this the droplets are ejected by the recording unit

_-, _ bump and applied to the recording material P, b

thereby making the recording. The controller 110 can respond to the input of the recording signal SA adjust the electrical signal for forming the flying droplets and the ejection energy

Feed dispenser 102. The heater 120 30

is mounted in the recording unit 100 and heated the liquid from the outside. The heat control device 140 switches on a power supply SW according to the ambient conditions using

the heating device 120 heats the liquid and / or 35

at the recording unit controller 110

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electrical signal set within a range in which no flying droplets are formed; through this is the liquid according to the ambient conditions

c conditions heated,
ο

The recording apparatus according to that shown in FIG Third example, the liquid discharge recording unit 100 comprises the recording unit controller 110, the heater 120, the heat controller 140, the discharge controller 150 and a sequence controller 160. The recording unit 100 includes the discharge energy output device 102 with the electrothermal energy conversion device, which is based on the supply of an electrical 15

Signal can heat the liquid so that the flying liquid droplets are formed. Thereby, the recording unit discharges the flying droplets and applies them to the recording material P to thereby record. The recording unit controller 110 can adjust the electric signal for forming the flying droplets in accordance with the input of the recording signal SA and ^{supply it to the} ejection energy emitter 102. The heater 120 is mounted 25 in the recording unit 100

and heats the liquid from the outside. From the heat control device 140 is used to heat the liquid according to the ambient conditions by means of the heating device 120 heats the liquid and / or an electrical one on the recording unit control device 110 Signal set within a range where no flying droplets are formed. The ejection controller 150 provides an electrical signal to the control device 110 to form the flying

Tropfcheji, whereby the recording unit 100 the 35

can emit flying droplets. The sequence control input

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direction 160 sets when the power supply is switched on SW first operates the heat control device 140 and then the discharge control device 150.

The recording apparatus according to the fourth example shown in Fig. 4 includes the liquid discharge recording unit 100, the recording unit controller 110 and a controller 190. The , Q Recording unit 100 contains the discharge energy discharging device 102, which act on the liquid in response to the supply of an electrical signal leaves to form flying droplets of liquid. As a result, the recording unit releases these droplets , _ and applies them to the recording material P. the Recording unit controller 110 can access the Inputting the recording signal SA to adjust the electrical signal for forming the flying droplets and supply it to the ejection energy dispenser 102. The controller 190 provides the recording unit controller 110, in response to the input of the recording signal SA, the electrical signal for forming the flying droplets if the ambient conditions are suitable for recording; thereby the Recording unit 100 droplets flying in advance hand over; thereafter, the controller 190 generates a command signal.

The recording apparatus according to that shown in FIG The fifth example includes the liquid ejection 30

Recording unit 100, the recording unit controller 110, the heater 120, the heat controller 140, the ejection controller 150, and the sequencer 160. The recording input

i.e. 1 0S) , the ejection energy delivery device 102 includes 35

with the electrothermal energy conversion device that

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upon application of an electrical signal, heat the liquid to form flying liquid droplets can. These droplets are ejected from the recording unit and used for recording on the Recording material P applied. The recording unit controller 110 can respond to the input according to a command signal at the start of recording of the recording signal SA the electrical signal

Set to making droplets flying and do it that Supply ejection energy delivery device 102. The heater 120 is mounted in the recording unit 100 and heats the liquid from the outside. Of the Heat control device 140 is used to heat the liquid according to the ambient conditions by means of the 15th

Heating device 120 heats the liquid and / or an electrical signal is set on recording unit control device 110 within a range in which no flying liquid droplets are formed. The ejection controller 150 is at the Recording unit controller 110 the electrical Signal to form the flying droplets, causing the recording unit 100 to generate the flying droplets Can eject droplets. The sequencer 160

relies on the input of the recording signal 25th

The heat controller 140 and the ejection controller 150 operate, after which they then send a command signal generated.

The recording apparatus according to that shown in FIG. 6

The sixth example includes the liquid discharge recording unit 100, the recording unit controller 110, the heater 120, a Covering device 180 and a control device 200. The

Recording unit 100 contains the ejection energy 35

Dispensing device 102, which corresponds to the supply of a

^: / ^ 545689

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^; electrical signal causes ejection energy to act on the liquid to form flying liquid droplets. As a result, the recording unit discharges these flying droplets, by which the recording material P is recorded. The recording unit controller 110 supplies the electric signal for forming the flying droplets to the ejection energy emitter 102 in response to the input of the recording signal SA. The heater 120 is installed in the recording unit 100 and heats the liquid from the outside. The covering device 180 can be brought into communication with the recording unit 100. If the environmental conditions for a record

_η _ ning process are unsuitable or unfavorable, is in Ib

Connection to a single recording process using of the recording unit 100 from the control device 200 the heater 120 commanded a heating process. If even after the expiration of a set

Length of time after the completion of each recording 20

No next recording signal is input during the process is, the heating device 120 is commanded by the control device 200 to stop heating and at the same time the covering device 180 put into operation,

whereby the capping device 180 with the recording 25

unit 100 is associated.

The recording apparatus according to that shown in FIG The seventh example includes the liquid discharge recording unit 100, the recording unit-30

Control device 110, the heating device 120, the Thermal controller 140, the discharge controller 150 and the sequencer 160. The recording unit 100 includes the discharge energy output device 102 with the electrothermal energy conversion device, which is responsive to the supply of an electric

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Signals the liquid to form flying liquid droplets can heat up. As a result, these droplets are emitted from the recording unit 100 and ejected, whereby the recording material P is recorded. The recording unit controller 110 can respond to the input of the recording signal SA to adjust the electrical signal for forming the flying droplets and it of the ejection energy, Q Feed dispenser 102. The heater 120 is mounted in the recording unit 100 and heats the liquid from the outside. The heat controller 140 functions to heat the liquid depending on the ambient conditions, the heating of the liquid by the heating device 120 and / or at the

Recording unit controller 110 adjusting an electrical signal within a range in where no flying droplets are formed. The ejection controller 150 provides the recording unit controller 110 the electrical signal for the formation of the flying droplets, so that the Recording unit 100 can eject the flying droplets. The sequence control device 160 is set up the switching on of the power supply SW and / or the input of the recording signal SA to the heat control unit 25

direction 140 in operation. After the heat control device 140 has been put into operation, the sequence control device remains 160 for a set period of time in the idle state, after which the ejection control device 150

puts into operation.
30th

The recording apparatus according to that shown in FIG The eighth example includes the liquid discharge recording unit 100, the recording unit controller 110 and the heat controller 35

140. The recording unit 100 contains the ejection

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energy delivery device 102 with the electrothermal energy conversion device which, in response to the supply of an electrical signal, can heat the liquid to form flying liquid droplets. The recording unit 100 ejects these flying droplets, whereby the recording material P is recorded. The recording unit controller 110 may set a -, Q pulse width of the electric signal for forming the flying droplets in response to the input of the recording signal SA, and supply the electric signal to the ejection energy dispenser 102. The heat controller 140 includes a pulse width adjuster 142 for setting a _K pulse width on the recording unit controller 110. This thermal controller sets the recording unit controller 110 to an electric signal having a pulse width within a range for heating the liquid in accordance with the environmental conditions its no flying

Droplets are formed.

The recording apparatus according to that shown in FIG The ninth example includes the liquid discharge recording unit 100, the recording unit-25

Controller 110 and the thermal controller 140. The recording unit 100 includes the ejection energy emitter 102 having the electrothermal . Energy conversion device based on supplying a

electrical signal to the liquid to form fli-e-30

gender can heat droplets of liquid. The recording unit 100 ejects these flying droplets, whereby the recording material P is recorded will. The recording unit controller 110 can

in response to the input of the recording signal SA 35

Frequency of the electrical signal used to form the fly-

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adjust the droplet and apply the electrical signal to the ejection energy delivery device 102. the Thermal controller 140 includes a frequency adjuster 144 for adjusting a frequency at the recording unit controller 110. From this heat control device is attached to the recording unit control device 110 an electrical signal that is within a non-flying range Droplets are formed at a frequency above the frequency of an electrical signal when it is recorded set to thereby heat the liquid according to the ambient conditions.

The recording device according to the shown in Fig. 10-

The tenth example includes the liquid discharge recording unit 100, the recording unit controller 110, and the heat controller 140. The recording unit 100 includes the discharge energy discharging device 102 with the electrothermal energy

converter device based on the supply of an electrical Signal can heat the liquid to form flying liquid droplets. The recording unit 100 ejects these flying droplets, causing

is recorded on the recording material P. the 25th

Recording unit controller 110 can access the Input of the recording signal SA to a voltage of the electrical signal for forming the flying droplets' and supply the electrical signal to the ejection energy dispenser 102. The heat tax 30

Device 140 includes a voltage setting device 146 for setting a voltage on the recording unit controller 110. From this heat control device, it is applied to the recording unit control device 110 set an electrical signal having a voltage within a range in which

'· Α

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no flying droplets are formed; thereby becomes the liquid is heated according to the ambient conditions.

The recording apparatus according to that shown in FIG The eleventh example includes the liquid discharge recording unit 100, the recording unit controller 110 and the ejection control device 150. The recording unit 100 includes the ejection energy output device 102 which corresponds to the Applying an electrical signal causes energy to act on the liquid to form the flying liquid droplets. These are flying droplets

. discharged from the recording unit 100, whereby on lo

the recording material P is recorded. From the recording unit controller 110, in accordance with the input of the recording signal SA, the number of the droplet deliveries and the ejection energy delivery device 102 the electrical signal for forming the flying droplets can be supplied. The ejection controller 150 includes a charge number setting device 154 for setting the number of droplet discharges according to the environmental conditions. From this discharge control device, at the 25th

Recording unit controller 110 the electrical Signal set for the formation of the flying droplets, whereby the recording unit 100 im ahead the flying droplets emitted in an amount corresponding to the number of droplet deliveries.

The recording apparatus according to that shown in FIG The twelfth example includes the liquid ejection recording unit 100, a drive device 210

and a heat controller 220. The recording 35

Unit 100 contains the ejection energy delivery device

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102, which applies energy to the liquid in accordance with the supply of an electrical signal. to form the flying droplets of liquid. These

ι- flying droplets are from the recording unit ejected on the fly, creating on the recording material P recorded wj.rd. The driving device 210 moves the recording unit 100 in a predetermined Direction in relation to the recording material or Paper P. If the drive device 210 or the movement caused by it is stopped, means of the heat controller 220 heats the liquid in the recording unit 100.

The recording device according to the shown in Fig. 13-o

The thirteenth example includes the liquid discharge recording unit 100, the recording unit controller 110, the heat controller 140, and the ejection controller 150. The recording unit 100 includes the ejection energy dispenser 102 20th

with the electrothermal energy converter device, with which, according to the supply of an electrical signal, causes energy to act on the liquid, around the flying ones To form droplets of liquid. These flying droplets are emitted from the recording unit 100.

bump, whereby recorded on the recording material P. will. From the recording unit controller 110, according to the input of the recording signal SA, the electrical signal for forming the flying droplets can be set and supplied to the ejection energy dispenser 102. From the heat control device 140 is corresponding to the recording unit controller 110 for heating the liquid the ambient conditions set an electrical signal within a range in which no-

lei flying droplets are formed. The discharge

-31- EN 54 09

■

Control device 150 contains a frequency setting device 154 for setting a frequency of the electrical signal to the recording unit

, _ Control device 110. From this discharge control device becomes the electrical signal for forming flying droplets after heating at a frequency below a frequency of the electrical signal set during recording, making the ejection more on the fly

Droplets from the recording unit 100 is caused.

The liquid ejection recording apparatus of the present invention will now be detailed based on the drawing

described.
15th

Fig. 14 shows an example of the construction of recording units in inkjet printers, the embodiments of the recording device according to the invention are, for the design of the examples shown in FIGS. 1 to 13 are explained. With the inkjet printer according to the example shown in Fig. 14, a recording unit or head unit is attached to a Slide attached, moving in a predetermined direction

is moved with respect to a recording surface. the 25th

Figs. 15A and 15B are each an enlarged view of the head unit according to FIG. 14 or an enlarged representation of a nozzle unit of the head unit.

In FIGS. 14, ISA and 15B, HU denotes a liquid

ejection recording unit or head unit, which is attached to a carriage C. It is also possible to provide recording units HU in the number of color inks used. With FC is a flexible one

Cable, consisting of a set of lines for 35

Signals for controlling the liquid or ink discharge

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Shock of the recording unit HU and the like.

The carriage C is attached to, for example, a belt or the like, and is moved in the directions shown by the arrows S in FIG. 14 by means of a motor or the like. For this movement in the directions S, the carriage C is guided _in R through guide rails.

With P, the recording material is such as paper or the like denotes which is transported or advanced in the direction shown in FIG. 14 by an arrow f will. PL is a platen roller,

the one recording surface for the recording material P forms. That is, the carriage C is moved in the directions S along the guide rails by means of the driving device R moves, thereby making it possible to record on the recording surface of the recording material P.

ST denotes an intermediate container which is attached to the carriage C; with TBI is an ink supply

guide tube for connecting a (not shown) 25

Main container with the intermediate container ST; with TB2 is an ink supply tube for connecting the Intermediate container ST designated with a liquid chamber IR in the recording unit HU.

Furthermore, a cover CAP is arranged so that it is in an initial position H of the carriage C in the Directions S of the recording unit HU faces. When the carriage C is in the starting position, can

by means of an adjusting device such as a motor or the 35

the cover part CAP is the same as that of the recording unit

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HU moved towards and pressed against the discharge surface. At the same time, a catching part SP is pressed against the ejection surface of the recording unit HU, which collects the ink collects and which is formed, for example, from a porous material for absorbing water.

In FIG. 15A, BP denotes a base plate on or above which the feed tube TB2, a liquid

, Q chamber IR, a nozzle unit NZ, the flexible cable and the like are arranged, these components of the Base plate are held. With glulam is an elastic Denotes part for supporting the peripheral portion of the nozzle unit; with FP denotes a front panel;

_{1 (} - TS denotes a temperature sensor such as a thermistor or the like for detecting the temperature; HTR denotes a heating device which is formed, for example, by an electrothermal energy converter such as a thermistor with positive characteristics or the like and which is attached to the recording unit HU to heat or keep warm the recording liquid or ink from the outside. TP denotes a heat conducting plate.

_ In Fig. 15B, OR denotes a nozzle opening, which serves as an ink ejection port. In this embodiment nozzle openings OR are vertically lined up in a predetermined number in the nozzle unit NZ. With I is a fluid channel for connecting each

respective nozzle opening OR with the liquid chamber IR 30th

designated. ET denotes an ejection heater, which serves as an ejection energy delivery device for ejection of the in the liquid channel ICH located ink or liquid supplies thermal energy.

For recording with the recording described above

* K

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The drawing device is initially inked from the main container via the supply tube TBI to the intermediate container ST or recording liquid supplied. Furthermore will the liquid chamber IR and the liquid channel ICH with the recording liquid via the supply pipe filled. The next thing to do is to use the flexible cable FC a droplet ejection signal generator explained below to the ejection heater ET an electric , Q signal is applied, causing the ejection heater ET in Operation is set. Thereafter, the ejection heater ET generates thermal energy that of the recording liquid in the liquid channel ICH near the ejection, heater ET is supplied, whereby in the on-P drawing liquid an air bubble is generated, which is indicative of a sudden increase in the volume of the recording liquid is accompanied in this area. Thereby, the in the area downstream of the discharge heater ET located recording liquid from such the nozzle opening OR that is ejected from the recording liquid the liquid droplet is formed. This droplet is on the recording material P like Paper or the like is applied, which is transported in front of the nozzle unit; this way the Recording carried out.

Fig. 16 shows an example of the configuration of a control device for the ink jet printer as an embodiment the recording device according to the invention. In this example it is assumed that the control 30

setting up print data from a processing computer receives and stores the print data for one line and by means of a control unit for the recording unit HU controls the print head in order to thereby bring about a printout.

'; - ■'. "7-5545689

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According to FIG. 16, a programmable peripheral interface 1 first receives in parallel the print data which are sent from the host computer to the printer in this example; then the interface 1 transmits the print data to a microprocessor (MPU) 2. The interface 1 also controls a control panel 6 and brings about an input from an initial position sensor 7. The microprocessor 2 controls the respective parts _in the printer and executes a processing program explained below. A read / write memory (RAM) serves as a line buffer memory 3 for storing the print data received from the interface 1 in bulk for one line. With 4 is a permanent memory for generating typefaces of the printed characters,

namely a character read-only memory, while 5 designates a control read-only memory (ROM), in the processing program (according to FIGS. 17 to 19) are stored, which are executed by the microprocessor 2

will. These components 1 to 5 are via an address 20

Collecting line AB and a data collecting line DB connected to one another.

The control panel 6 contains a keyboard, indicator lamps and the same. The home position sensor 7 is near b

the starting position of the carriage C arranged. A Cover sensor 8 detects the state of the head cover member CAP, namely whether or not the cover part CAP is attached to the recording unit HU. A paper sensor _. 9 detects the lack of recording or printing paper.

From a head control unit 10, the print data and the printout times cached as well as the Print out according to a command from the microprocessor 2 started. In this embodiment, namely -35

borrowed the head control unit 10 as specially assigned

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integrated circuit used, which enables high processing speed is achieved. For example, as the head control unit TO, that disclosed in Japanese Control unit described in patent application No. 162802/1984 can be used. The initially cached print data ^. are output unchanged, unless a change is otherwise requested.

, Q FIG. 16 also shows a driver stage 11 for control of the recording unit HU corresponding to the head control unit 10, a protection circuit 13 for the Recording unit HU, a driver stage 14 for controlling the units installed in the recording unit HU

_1C - external heating device HTR for heating and keeping the ink warm, a temperature comparator 15 for the ink temperature sensor HS installed in the recording unit HU, a font switch 16 for commanding the switching of the printing font and an input selector 17, which receives the signals from the temperature comparator 15 and the Selects font switch 16 and which is controlled by the microprocessor 2.

Furthermore, FIG. 16 shows a driver stage 18 for

_or _ operating a motor M3 for moving the cover part ■ CAP with respect to the recording unit HU, driver stages 22 and 24 for operating a motor M1 for paper feed and a motor M2 for moving the carriage C, and a solenoid valve 20 and a driver stage 21 for this purpose, which are used for venting the head unit or recording unit HU.

The basic processes in the ink jet printer shown in Figs. 14-16 will now be described in accordance with

this embodiment described. If at this 35

Embodiment the power supply of the printer

Ä. & J t

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is turned on and when printing is initiated, is performed on the recording unit or head unit HU a preheating and a pre-ejection, whereby a g good ink ejection condition is achieved. Furthermore, in In connection with these processes, the cover of the head unit HU is controlled in a suitable manner. Assume that the preheating process is an external heating process and / or an internal heating process contains.

In this case, the external heating is the heating of the Ink in the head unit HU referred to from the outside by feeding the external heater HTR, while as internal heating the heating of the ink in the head

is called HU by supplying pulses within a Area in which no ink from the head unit HU is discharged to the discharging energy delivery device is designated. The head control unit 10 turns on at every set frequency during internal heating Print output start signal supplied.

If in detail the preheating by the internal heating is brought about, the aim should be to send a print output signal with a suitable pulse width to the head unit, 25th

Apply frequency and voltage. However, the use of the head control unit 10 enables satisfactory processes to be carried out even at the normal processing speed of the microprocessor. That is, according to this embodiment, the parameters of the respective print output signals can be freely changed and set according to requirements, so that the head unit can be optimally heated, the programs can be simplified and a high processing speed can be achieved.
35

-38- DE 5409

If, on the other hand, a pre-ejection is also to be brought about, it is advantageous to supply the head unit HU with a suitable print output signal with a pulse width, a frequency and a voltage as parameters in the same way as in the previous case. In this exemplary embodiment, these parameters and the number of ejections or droplet discharges are changed according to the ambient conditions. In the exemplary embodiment, this case can be taken into account in a simple manner by means of the program equipment, and the optimal pre-ejection can be brought about. Furthermore, in this embodiment, all bits of the print output signals are set to "1" during the pre-ejection using the head control unit 10. Therefore, it is not necessary to change the print data each time with respect to the print data in this case, so that the program can be simplified and a high processing speed can be ^achieved .

The following is the print condition optimization for this Embodiment described.

Figs. 17A and 17B show an example of a program 2b

for optimizing the pressure state in the case of the invention Recording device.

Immediately after switching on the power supply to the

Printer will be the interface as initial preparation 30th

1 and the head control unit 10 as circuit units prepared while regarding the program of the line buffer 3 is prepared and the function of the fixed control memory 5 is checked, the respective Parameters are provided that are necessary for the processing 35

processing can be used (step S1).

ft * t ft Λ ί-
C * ¹ S ■ * -. ■ * .ΐ ft A <
'Λ ft (fr ΐ " ■ •• 3545689 DE 5 4 09

After completing the initial preparation, the engine will M3 for the head cover operated to open the head cover while by the microprocessor 2 the cover sensor 8 is monitored (step S2). Monitoring the starting position sensor 7 is the Slide motor M2 dera.rt controls that the slide C is returned to the starting position H (step S3) -. After that, the cover sensor is monitored

_n 8, the motor M3 is driven to close the head cover of the head unit HU (step S4). Furthermore, the motor Ml is driven to transport the recording paper by a distance of, for example, 1 line (step S5). After these operations, the head unit is

._ HU prepared.
15th

In the initial preparation program, the Preheating of the head unit HU started (step SH).

Fig. 18 shows an example of the preheating process for external and internal heating. According to the foregoing, the head control unit is used for internal heating 10 to the head unit HU an output signal with a pulse width, a voltage and / or a high

Frequency applied within respective areas in which 25th

no ink is ejected; this generates heat in the head unit HU. The is switched on for external heating the head unit HU attached heater HTR as Heating element used and from the microprocessor 2 the

Driver stage 14 switched on, whereby the head unit HU 30th

is heated. External heating is done in one step SH1 started, followed by a step SH2 in the head control unit 10 the operating mode "external heating" is set. At a next step SH3, all

Points' resp. Bits of the print signal set to "1". 35

In a step SH4, internal heating is started.

-40- DE 5409

For internal heating, the pulse width, voltage and frequency of the pressure output signal or Pressure signal is set in a suitable manner, which is

g is explained below.

After this catfish preheating of the head unit has started, the temperature of the head unit HU is checked to determine whether the temperature of the

, Q head unit HU exceeds a constant upper temperature or not (step SH5). If the answer is "YES", the preheating is ended. If the answer is "NO", it follows a step SH6, wherein the preheating continues and it is determined whether a predetermined time after the start

,, - of the external or internal heating has elapsed (step SH6). If the answer to step SH6 is "YES", namely, the temperature has not exceeded the constant upper temperature even after the lapse of the predetermined time, step SH7 follows. At step SH7 _n , in order to prevent thermal damage to the head unit, a command to cancel the internal heating is sent to the head control unit 10, thereby terminating the internal heating. In a next step SH8, the driver stage 14 is switched off in order to end the external heating. This ends the preheating,

after which the program advances to a step S6 of FIG. 17A returns. The constant temperature for comparison with the temperature is the upper operating limit temperature of the head unit HU (for example 42 ° C).

It can be seen that switching the ' 30th

external and internal heating between these im Process can be swapped.

According to FIG. 17A, after completing the preheating, the

Device for a predetermined time a dormant 35

state, whereby the temperature in the local

-41- DE 5409

:

lent heated head unit HU evenly distributed (Step S6). After the predetermined idle time has elapsed, a prefire process is carried out (Step SJ). If the heating was suddenly or quickly after switching on the power supply for preheating, a relatively long rest period can be chosen. In this case, for example, a Rest time of 500 ms can be set.

Fig. 19 shows an example of the prefire process. First, in step SJ1, in the head control unit 10, the ejection conditions are set. then all dots or bits of the print signal are set to "1" at a step SJ2. With a next one In step SJ3, the print signal is applied to the head unit HU to eject the ink. This expulsion will under examination in a step SJ4 in a predetermined Number repeated. After that, the program returns to one

Step S10 back to FIG. 17A, in which a Druckbe- ZU

the device begins to standby. To this This is because the initial preparation of the head unit HU is completed. The program then changes to Ready state for the host computer to print.

_no . The specific number of discharges as well as the parameters 25

the ejection conditions can be appropriately adjusted accordingly can be selected according to the environmental conditions, which is explained below.

_Λ If in the print-ready state from processing-30

If a print signal or print start signal is supplied to the processing computer (step S10), the following print data buffered in interface 1 and transferred to line buffer memory 3. From the temperature

same-r 15 is a signal from the on the head unit HU 35

attached temperature sensor TS is detected and it is

-42- DE 5409

averages whether the temperature is higher than a lower constant temperature, namely higher than 20 ⁰ C or not (step SII). When the answer is "YES", the head cover motor M3 is driven to close the cover (step S12). Thereafter, the head control unit 10 is switched to the normal print mode in order to carry out the pre-ejection (steps SJ of FIG. 19). In contrast, when the answer is "NO" ^ q in step SI 1, namely, it is determined that the temperature is lower than the lower constant temperature, the cover is closed (step S13) and then the preheating process is carried out (steps SH after Fig. 18). After a state of rest for a predetermined time

P duration (step S15) are set in the head control unit 10 the ejection conditions and the ejection number are set again, after which the preliminary ejection is effected (Steps SJ of Fig. 19).

In this case, the standby or rest time

shorter than the rest time mentioned above can be selected, if not the fast heating as in the commissioning of the recording unit is brought about. The lower constant temperature is the lower

_o _ Operating limit temperature of the head unit HU. 2o

Next, the driver 14 is turned off to end the external heating (step S16), after which the Printing state of the recording device starts. I.e.,

during the printing process with the drive of the carriage-30

No heating process is carried out for motor M2.

In addition, the heating process can also be started without increasing the electric power consumption associated with the printing operation can be carried out in step S20. I.e., if the movement

-43- DE 5409

direction at both ends of the range of motion of the

When the carriage changes, carriage C is first stopped at these reversal points; therefore can to this g Time the heating process is carried out.

For example, if a line is printed out after the start of pressing and the carriage motor M2 stops (step S20), it is then checked whether or not the temperature _{n of} the head unit HU is higher than the lower constant temperature (step S21). When the answer is "YES", a step S23 follows. When the answer is "NO", the driver 14 is driven to bring about the external heating (step S22), followed by step S23. That is, it is determined whether or not the temperature of the head unit HU is higher than the upper constant temperature (step S23). If the answer is "YES", the external heating is immediately canceled (step S25). When the answer is "NO", "standby" is established for a predetermined time (e.g., 200 msec) (step S24), after which the external heating is terminated (step S25).

Next, as shown in Fig. 17B, the paper feed motor becomes 25th

M1 driven to advance the paper (step S30), after which steps S21 and S22 are similar Steps S31 and S32 are carried out and thereafter a Step S40 follows. That is, from the microprocessor 2

an internal timer is switched on and it is ermit -30

telts whether within a predetermined time (for example 5 s) Print data has been stored in the interface 1 or not (steps S40 and S41). if if the answer is "YES", step SI 6 follows

Figure 17A. If the answer is "NO", the driver 35

level 14 switched off to end external heating

-44- DE 5409

(Step S42). Then the carriage motor M2 is driven to move the carriage C to the starting position H. returned (step S43). Then the cover motor M3 is driven to close the cover (Step S44), after which the program returns to Step S10 of Fig. 17A.

In this way, in this embodiment, after the preheating process is carried out, the pre-ejection for ejecting the liquid droplets not used or usable for recording is effected. In this way, the viscosity of the recording liquid, the discharge operation can be optimized for printing with a very long interruption of recording, and also in a considerable increase _1R due to the evaporation of the solvent component. That is, first, by preheating, the high viscosity portion of the recording liquid is heated and the temperature thereof is raised so that the viscosity of the recording liquid is decreased to a level at which the liquid droplets can be ejected. By the subsequent pre-ejection in this state, that part of the recording liquid is drained from the liquid passage ICH, so that the area near the ejection heater ET is supplied with the recording liquid having the viscosity in a range suitable for ejection and thereby the condition suitable for good ejection the recording liquid is brought about. The following tests were carried out to determine the persistence of this ejection state:

Experiment using the exemplary embodiment

It became the ink jet printer according to this embodiment

example with the recording shown in Fig. 15B

-45- DE 5409

-

tion head unit used, in the 24 nozzle openings (with the respective dimensions 50x40 μπι) were arranged vertically in a line at regular intervals of 0.141 mm. This recording apparatus has been supplied, a recording liquid mentioned below ingredients .. When resuming recording after the lapse of a recording pause period of 12 hours at 25 ° C and 30%, Q relative humidity, a signal having a voltage of 23.5 V, a pulse width of 5 με and a frequency of 10 kHz is applied to the ejection heater ET during preheating. Thereafter, 100 pulses of a signal with a voltage of 23.5 V, a pulse width of

10 µs and a frequency of 2 kHz to the ejection heater Ib

direction ET applied, whereby the for the recording unused liquid droplets have been expelled. With regard to a defective or failed output after the interruption in recording, the

Recording device rated by the fact that up to the 20th

Ejection of the liquid droplets usable for recording of the recording liquid determines the number of liquid droplets from all 24 nozzle openings that were not ejected according to the recording signal. The results are in the 25th

Table 1 below.

The components of the used for the recording The recording fluids were as follows:

C. I. direct black 19 2 parts by weight

Diethylene glycol .30 parts by weight

Water. 70 parts by weight

Experiment using a comparison device

-46- DE 5409

A recording device was used which was the same in structure as the recording device according to the embodiment, but only an electric signal for ejecting the liquid droplets used for recording was applied to the ejection heater for recording. To this comparative recording apparatus, the above recording liquid was supplied. When recording was resumed after the pause period of 12 hours at 25 ° C and 30% RH, only the electric signal with the voltage of 23.5 V, the pulse width of 10 ps and the frequency of 2 kHz for applied the droplet ejection and made the recording. After the interruption, the recording apparatus was evaluated for poor ejection in the same manner as in the experiment of the embodiment. The results are shown in Table 1.

DE 5 4 09

Table 1

Number of interruptions not ejected

Droplet up to the droplet-

output from all 24 nozzles
openings

Execution S-example

12th

Ver

equalizing device
tion

No droplet ejection from 2
of the 24 nozzle openings

12 h

From Table 1 it can be seen that even in the Resumption of the recording after the expiry of such a particularly long interruption or downtime a good and even ejection of the liquid droplets can always be achieved.

Next is the choice of parameters for the pulse width, explains the frequency, voltage and the like of the printing signal in the preheating and the prefire.

The extent of the deviation in the viscosity of the Liquid channel ICH and in particular near the nozzle openings OR located recording liquid from the appropriate area due to the interruption of recording differs depending on the properties of the device used, the physical -

-48- DE 5409

Properties of the recording liquid, the environmental conditions such as the temperature, the humidity and the like at the place of installation and use of the device etc. Therefore, the parameters of the pressure signal become in the preheating and especially in the internal heating chosen in a suitable manner according to the individual devices and their conditions of use.

_n the other hand the signal supplied at the pre-ejection of the ejection heater ET signal is applied under conditions such that the recording liquid, the viscosity of which is outside the suitable for the ejection of droplets for recording portion, jetted from the liquid channel ICH and is removed.

Furthermore, the number of ejections in the pre-ejection can be adjusted according to the environmental conditions existing at that time can be changed, which allows this process to be carried out effectively.

Fig. 20 shows an electric signal applied to the ejection heater ET. In this Representation is denoted by ν the voltage while

with w. the pulse width is designated. If at the 2b ι

Supplying the signal to the ejection heater ET in which preheating bubbles are generated by the heating, it could be the case that the subsequent droplet ejection becomes uneven or in the worst case no droplets are expelled. Therefore, it must be applied to the ejection heater ET in the preheating electrical signal are within a range within which on the ejection heater ET none Bubbles are generated.

-49- ΌΕ 5409

ι:

On the other hand, since these preheating operations are carried out when the power supply to the printer is turned on and when printing is started, the preheating c is carried out quite frequently. Therefore, deterioration in the longevity of the ejection heater ET caused by these preheating operations must be avoided. It was studied the stability of the ejection heater ET under the conditions, _n that in the Vorwärmungsvorgang with the ejection heater ET which the ejector ET supplied electric power (W) was maintained constant and w is the pulse width. And the applied voltage were changed ν. It was found that the shelf life of the

Ejection heater ET was better when the pulse 15

wide w. and the applied voltage ν selected to be small became.

On the other hand, the one for heating the head unit is HU required time to the desired temperature by the electric supplied to the ejection heater ET Power (W) determined. In the actual use of the recording device, however, it is desirable that the time taken to start pressing, namely

_ the waiting time is as short as possible. 25th

Even so, it is in view of the above Durability of the ejector heater ET not favorable, it is safe to increase the voltage applied to the heater. There is also the generation of a bubble 30th

at the ejection heater ET in the preheating subsequently causing defective printing or failure of ejection, it is also difficult to determine the pulse width to enlarge.

Therefore, to raise the temperature of the heating unit on

-50-. DE 5409

the desired temperature in a short time and within such a range that the preheating processes does not affect the durability of the ejection heater ET bec and does not generate bubbles thereon It is appropriate to increase the frequency of the electrical signal supplied to the ejection heater ET.

Fig. 21 shows an example of the relationships between the time (in minutes) and the head unit temperature ( ⁰ C), using the frequency of the preheating signal applied to the ejection heater ET as a parameter. In this example, the applied voltage ν was set to 24V, the pulse width w- to 5 μβ and the frequency to 10 kHz, 5 kHz or 2 kHz. The head unit temperature was measured with the temperature sensor TS.

By changing the voltage, the pulse width and the 20

Frequency versus the above values, two tests were carried out.

Attempt 1

The ink jet printer according to the embodiment having the nozzle unit NZ shown in FIG. 15B was used used in the 24 nozzle openings (with the respective dimensions 50x40 μηι) vertically in a line in regular Intervals of 0.141 mm were arranged. This recording device became the recording liquid supplied with the aforementioned ingredients. The ejection heater ET became the electric The signal is supplied under the conditions listed in Table 2 and the preheating process is thus carried out.

leads.

-51- DE 5

The presence or absence of vesicles was indicated by Observing the heater with an optical microscope determined. The results are in the table

₅ listed.

-SZ- DH 5 409

Table 2

Signal to record

Voltage frequency pulse width

24 V 2 kHz 10

Preheating conditions

Voltage Frequency Pulse width Application time Bubbles on

20 ^{he eiZ} ~

contraption

26 V 3.7 kHz 5.0 με 15 s yes 25

24V 2.7 kHz 7.5 ps 15s yes

24 V 10 kHz 2.0 με 15 S no 15 V 5.0 kHz 10 με 15 s no

10 V 1 1, 6 kHz 10 μβ 15 s no

DE 5409

(These conditions were under constant setting of electrical power consumption)

Attempt 2

It became the same inkjet printer as that Experiment 1 used and the recording device the Recording liquid with the foregoing Components supplied. The signal was sent to the ejection heater ET created under the conditions listed in Table 3. The preheating processes were repeatedly to examine the durability of the ejection heater ET. The results are in Table 3 cited.

Table 3 Preheating conditions

Voltage Frequency Pulse Apply Again Interrupt

wide time holungen

the heating

kHz prev.

24V 10 2, 0μ5 T5s 5
10 no 15V 5.0 1 Ομε 15s - Il - - Il - 10V 11.6 1 0μ5 15s - Il - - Il -

From Table 3 it can be seen that the pulse width

-54- ΠΙ: 5409

of the electrical signal supplied during preheating of the ejection heater ET is preferably less than that of the electrical signal is selected for recording. As a result of further detailed, Tests have found that it is desirable to keep the pulse width in a range from 1 to 1/20 of the pulse width to select for recording.

Further, it can be seen that it is preferable to reduce the applied voltage of the preheating of the ejection heater ET applied electrical signal equal to or lower than the applied voltage for the Select recording.

In addition, by setting the frequency of the electrical signal for preheating to a frequency which is higher than that for recording, the time required for heating can be shortened.

These parameters as well as the number of pulses or ejections can be set very easily by means of the head control unit 10 according to the above explanations will.

The ejection conditions in the pre-ejection processes will now be explained.

If the recording was interrupted for a long time, the evaporation of the water and the volatile organic solvent and the like, the viscosity of those remaining in and near the nozzle openings OR Ink on, making the ink less ejectable. Although the viscosity of the remaining ink

reduced by the preheating described above 35

becomes higher than that for recording

-55- DE 5409

suitable ink so that the sizes, speeds

and the like of the droplets are different and these

remaining ink is unsuitable for recording.

Therefore, in this exemplary embodiment, after preheating the advance brought about.

In the pre-ejection, the ink is not always sent to the ejection heater by the first pulse of the at that time ET applied signal ejected. Therefore, by increasing the energy of the signal for the prefire versus the energy of the signal for printing, and by changing the duration of the ejection according to the environmental conditions, the time required for the pre-ejection shortened and brought about a very effective output

will.

The increase in the energy of the signal for the pre-ejection can practically be brought about by the fact that the

Voltage and / or the pulse width versus those 20th

enlarged for recording. That is, when the voltage and the pulse width of the to the ejection heater ET for the signal applied for printing are respectively 24V or 10 μ5, the voltage and / or the

Pulse width of the signal for the pre-ejection selected so that 25th

that they are greater than these values. When attempts were made Achieved good results when the tension is on the 1- bis 5 times, and preferably 1 to 2 times that for printing, and the like the pulse width is set to 1 to 5 times, and preferably T to 2 times, that for printing became.

In terms of the ejection time, it is favorable to the number of the outputs, namely to set the number of pulses according to the ambient conditions. When trying

-56- DE 5 4 09

became in the pre-ejection (steps SJ after step S6 of Fig. 17A) before the start of printing after Switch on the power supply when 100 to 150 pulses have been applied to the Austin shock heater ET, afterwards a good print quality is achieved. After the start of printing, the viscosity of the ink is at low temperatures high and, compared to high temperatures, it is more difficult to achieve a uniform output

To reach Q; therefore, it is advantageous to set the number of times of ink ejection appropriately. In experiments, in the pre-ejection below a temperature above the lower constant or limit temperature (of, for example, 20 ⁰ C) ("YES" in the step S11 of FIG.

p. 17A) found that the uniform ejection achieved when 20 to 50 pulses were applied to the ejection heater ET. In contrast, the Pre-ejection at a temperature below the lower limit temperature ("NO" in step SII) is the uniform one Ejection achieved when 50 to 100 pulses were applied to the ejection heater ET.

The ejection conditions in these pre-ejects can also be easily set by means of the head controller 10 can be set. The processes can be appropriately carried out at high speed without increasing the load on the microprocessor 2.

On the other hand, if the region in which the printer according to this embodiment is used is limited and is known exactly in advance, the number of discharges can also be changed according to the respective region, For example, is in a region with high temperature

and low humidity the temperature always high, so 35

that the ink dries up considerably. Hence the

-57- DE 5409

Pre-ejection amount at the higher temperature compared to that at the lower temperature is increased to thereby stabilize the ink ejection. Furthermore can g by changing the numerical values for the number of ejections or output number of the uniform ink ejection can be achieved. ^

Although, as this embodiment, an ink jet printer has been described, the recording apparatus of the present invention is not limited thereto; on the contrary, the same configuration is obviously also found in an inkjet printer in the so-called full-line multiple nozzle design applicable to a multi-. number of head units in the width direction of the recording paper is arranged.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, the respective parameters for the preheating processes as well as the

_o respective parameters and the number of outputs for the pre-20

ejection operations are set according to the temperature conditions. However, the recording apparatus of the present invention is not limited to this Procedure; rather, a method can also be used, for example

_o _ ren are used in which these parameters as well as the 25

The number of discharges is set according to environmental conditions such as humidity, atmospheric pressure or the like will.

Furthermore, although in this embodiment as Ejection energy emitting device using electrothermal energy converting device, "however, may, for example a piezoelectric element can also be used.

■ '■' ■

According to the above description, in the case of the

-58- DE 5409

according to the recording device before the start of After turning on the power supply, set the appropriate ejection conditions in the head control unit, after which the prefire processes are brought about. Therefore, it is possible to perform liquid discharge To create drawing device whose program equipment can be simplified and in which the printing status can be optimized quickly and easily.

Furthermore, in the recording device according to the invention the ejection conditions can be easily changed.

It becomes a liquid discharge recording apparatus such as an ink jet printer having a liquid ejection recording unit having an ejection energy delivery device including an electrothermal energy conversion device, which correspondingly an electrical signal, a recording liquid such as an ink for forming flying droplets can heat, this recording unit the flying Dispensing droplets and applying them to recording paper, thereby recording thereon; with a recording unit control circuit can accordingly a recording signal, the electrical signal for the formation of the flying droplets is set and supplied to the ejection energy dispenser; an ejection control device is used for setting of the electrical signal for the formation of the flying droplets on the recording unit control circuit turning on a power supply, causing the recording unit to match the flying droplets an environmental condition such as the temperature of the recording liquid ejects. With this particularly assigned 35

The appropriate ejection control devices become the appropriate ones

-59- EN 5

Ejection conditions set as well as before the start of the After switching on the power supply of the Recording device carried out preheating processes and anticipatory pushing processes, so that by means of a simple Program equipment the printing status can be optimized quickly and easily. -

Claims (1)

Claims 1. liquid ejection recording device; characterized by a liquid discharge recording unit (100) with an ejection energy delivery device (102) which corresponds to a supplied electrical Signal allows energy to act on a liquid to form flying liquid droplets in such a way that that the recording unit emits the flying liquid droplets and onto a recording material (P) applies to record thereby, a recording unit controller (110) with the corresponding an input recording signal (SA) the electrical signal adjustable and for forming the flying Liquid droplets of the ejection energy delivery device is feedable, and an ejection control means (150) attached to the recording unit control means when switching on a power supply, the electrical one Signal to form the flying liquid droplets adjusts, causing the recording unit the flying Releases liquid droplets. 2. liquid ejection recording device; characterized by a liquid ejection recording unit (100) having an ejection energy release device (102) having an electrothermal energy wall -2- ₍ DE 5409 has lervorrichtung with which a liquid can be heated in accordance with a supplied electrical signal is to form flying liquid droplets so that the recording unit discharges the flying liquid droplets to thereby write on a recording material (P) a recording unit controller (110) with which, in accordance with an inputted recording signal (SA), the electrical signal , Q is adjustable and can be supplied to the ejection energy delivery device to form the flying liquid droplets is a heater (120) mounted in the recording unit for externally heating the liquid and a heat control device (140) which, upon input _1C - switching on a power supply causes the liquid to be heated by the heater and / or sets an electrical signal to the recording unit control device outside of a range for the formation of the flying liquid droplets, thereby heating the liquid according to an ambient condition. 3. Recording device according to claim 2, characterized characterized in that the environmental condition is the temperature of the liquid. 4. liquid ejection recording device; characterized by a liquid discharge recording unit (100) having a discharge energy discharge device (102), which has an electrothermal energy converter device, with the corresponding one supplied led signal a liquid is heatable to form flying liquid droplets so that the recording unit releases the flying liquid droplets, thereby forming on a recording material (P) a recording unit controller 35 device (110), with which according to an entered statement -3- DE 5409 Drawing signal (SA) the electrical signal adjustable and for forming the flying liquid droplets of the Ejection energy delivery device can be supplied, a heating device mounted in the recording unit for Heating the liquid from the outside, a heat control device (140) which, through the heating device, the liquid lets heat and / or on the recording unit control device an electrical signal outside ^ q an area for the formation of the flying liquid droplets adjusts to thereby heat the liquid in accordance with an environmental condition, a Ejection control means (150) attached to the recording unit control means adjusts the electrical signal for forming the flying liquid droplets so that that the recording unit emits the flying liquid droplets, and a discharge control device (160) for operating the thermal control device when a power supply is switched on and afterwards _ _n operating the ejection control device. 5. Recording device according to claim 4, characterized in that the ambient condition is the temperature the liquid is. 6. liquid ejection recording device; characterized by a liquid discharge recording unit (100) with an ejection energy delivery device (102) which corresponds to a supplied electrical Irish signal energy act on a liquid 30th to form flying droplets of liquid in such a way that that the recording unit discharges the flying liquid droplets to thereby write on a recording material (P) a recording unit controller (MO), with the corresponding one -35 given recording signal (SA) the electrical signal .j , f. κ tit t, m -4- DE 5409 is adjustable and can be fed to the ejection energy delivery device to form the flying liquid droplets, and a control device (190) which, in the event of an ambient condition suitable for recording, sets the electrical signal for forming the flying liquid droplets in accordance with the input recording signal at the recording unit control device that a pre-delivery of the flying liquid droplets is caused by the recording unit, and which then generates a command signal. 7. Recording device according to claim 6, characterized characterized in that the environmental condition is the temperature of the liquid. 8. liquid ejection recording device; characterized by a liquid ejection recording unit (100) having an ejection energy release device (102) having an electrothermal energy wall has learning device, with the corresponding one supplied electrical signal a liquid is heatable to form flying liquid droplets so that the recording unit emits the flying liquid droplets to thereby record on a recording mat-25 rial (P), a recording unit controller (110) corresponding to a command signal to start recording according to a inputted recording signal is the electrical signal adjustable and used to form the flying liquid 30 droplets of the ejection energy delivery device can be supplied is a heater mounted in the recording unit (120) for heating the liquid from the outside, a heat control device (140) operated by the heating device lets the liquid heat up and / or on the 35 Recording unit control means an electric -5- DE 5409 Signal out of range to form the flying Liquid droplets adjusts to thereby the liquid according to an environmental condition, an ejection controller (150) attached to the recording unit controller adjusts the electrical signal for forming the flying liquid droplets so that that thereby the recording unit the flying liquid droplets outputs, and a sequencer, Q device (160) for operating the heat control device in accordance with the inputted recording signal and for Operating the ejection control device and subsequently generating a command signal. ,, - 9. Recording device according to claim 8, characterized characterized in that the environmental condition is the temperature of the liquid. Characterized by a liquid ejection recording unit (100) having a discharge energy-delivery device (102) is allowed to act according to an applied electrical signal energy to a liquid so as flying liquid droplets to form 10. A liquid discharge recording apparatus so _oc - that the recording unit emits flying liquid droplets to thereby record on a recording material (P), a recording unit control device (110), for supplying the electrical signal for the formation of the flying liquid droplet _n for the ejection energy delivery device correspond to FIG. 30 input recording signal (SA), one in the recording unit attached heater (120) for heating the liquid externally, one with the recording unit connectable cover device (180) and a controller (200) for commanding a heater 35 ming process of the heater, if related -6- DE 5409 with a single recording by the recording unit, an environmental condition for recording is unsuitable and if after completion of the individual recording even after a set time has elapsed no next recording signal is input, where the control device 4, as ending the heating by the Heating device commands and further controls the cover device so that thereby the cover device with the , Q recording unit is connected. 11. Recording device according to claim 10, characterized in that the environmental condition the Temperature of the liquid is. 12. liquid ejection recording device; characterized by a liquid discharge recording unit (100) having an ejection energy release device (102) which is an electrothermal energy conversion device has, with which a liquid can be heated in accordance with a supplied electrical signal is to form flying liquid droplets so that the recording unit discharges the flying liquid droplets to thereby print on a recording medium _o _ rial (P) to record a recording unit-25 Control device (110), with the corresponding one entered Recording signal (SA) the electrical signal adjustable and can be fed to the ejection energy delivery device to form the flying liquid droplets is a heater 30 mounted in the recording unit device (120) for heating the liquid from the outside, a heat control device (140) by the heating device lets the liquid heat up and / or an electrical one on the recording unit control device Signal out of range to form the flying 35 Adjusts liquid droplets, thereby causing the liquid -7- DE 5409 ability to heat according to an ambient condition, an ejection controller (150) attached to the recording unit controller adjusts the electrical signal for forming the flying liquid droplets so that that thereby the recording unit the flying liquid droplets dispense, and an at-running control device (160), which when a power supply is switched on and / or the input of the recording signal the heat, Q Control device operates and then after the expiry of a set time after the termination of this operation controls the ejection control device. 13. Recording device according to claim 12, da-. "characterized in that the ambient condition is the temperature of the liquid and that the hot fire device detects the temperature and adjusts the electrical signal. _ 14. Recording device according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the set time depends on the switching on of the power supply and the input of the recording signal (SA) is different is. 15. liquid ejection recording device; characterized by a liquid discharge recording unit (100) having an ejection energy release device (102) which is an electrothermal energy conversion device has, with which a liquid can be heated in accordance with a supplied electrical signal is to form flying liquid droplets so that the recording unit discharges the flying liquid droplets to thereby write on a recording material (P) to record a recording unit-35 Control device (110), with the corresponding one -8- DE 5409 given recording signal (SA) the pulse width of the electrical signal adjustable and the electrical A signal for forming the flying liquid droplets can be supplied to the ejection energy delivery device, and a thermal controller (140) having a pulse width adjuster (142) for adjusting the Pulse width on the recording unit control device, wherein with the heat control device on the up, Q drawing unit controller sends an electrical signal having a pulse width outside of a range for to form the flying liquid droplets is adjustable, thereby the liquid according to a To heat ambient condition. 16. Recording device according to claim 15, characterized characterized in that the environmental condition is the temperature of the liquid and that the pulse width adjusting means (142) detects the temperature and sets the pulse width. 17. A liquid discharge recording apparatus characterized by a liquid discharge recording unit (100) with an ejection energy delivery mechanism _o _ direction (102), which is an electrothermal ^ energy wall-2b has lervorrichtung with which a liquid can be heated in accordance with a supplied electrical signal is to form flying liquid droplets so that the recording unit records the flying liquid drops to thereby be recorded on a recording mat-30 rial (P), a recording unit controller (110), with which, in accordance with an inputted recording signal (SA), the frequency of the electrical Signal adjustable and the electrical signal for forming the flying liquid droplets of FIG Ejection energy delivery device can be supplied, and a -9- DE 5409 Heat control device (140) having a frequency setting device (144) for setting the frequency on the recording unit control device, where c the thermal controller on the recording unit controller an electrical signal that lies within a range - in which there are no flying droplets of liquid are formed at a frequency higher than the frequency of the electrical Sig-, Q. nals when recording is to thereby the liquid to be heated according to an ambient condition. 18. Recording device according to claim 17, characterized characterized in that the ambient condition is the temperature of the liquid and that the frequency adjustment means (144) detects the temperature and adjusts the frequency accordingly. 19. liquid ejection recording device; characterized by a liquid ejection record tion unit (100) with an ejection energy delivery device (102), which has an electrothermal energy conversion device, with the corresponding one applied electrical signal a liquid can be heated to form flying liquid droplets in such a way that that the recording unit discharges the flying liquid droplets to thereby write on a recording material (P) a recording unit controller (110), with the corresponding one given recording signal (SA) the voltage of the elek-30 tric signal adjustable and the electrical signal can be supplied to the ejection energy delivery device for forming the flying liquid droplets, and a Heat control device (140) with a voltage on adjusting device (146) for adjusting the tension 35 at the recording unit controller, wherein -10- DE 5409 the heat control device on the recording unit control device adjusts an electrical signal having a voltage within a range where none flying liquid droplets are formed, thereby creating the liquid according to an environmental condition to warm up. - • 20th Recording device according to claim 19, ₁ Q characterized in that the environmental condition is the temperature of the liquid and that the voltage adjusting device (146) detects the temperature and adjusts the voltage accordingly. .,. 21. Liquid ejection recording device, characterized by a liquid discharge recording unit (100) with an ejection energy delivery device (102) which corresponds to a supplied electrical Signal allows energy to act on a liquid to form flying liquid droplets in such a way that that the recording unit discharges the flying liquid droplets to thereby write on a recording material (P) to a recording unit control means (110) with the corresponding to an inputted Recording signal (SA) the number of deliveries adjustable and the electrical signal for forming the flying liquid droplets of the ejection energy delivery device is feedable, and an ejection control device (150) having a discharge number setting device (154) for setting the number of deliveries according to an environmental condition, the discharge control means at the recording unit control device, the electrical signal for forming the flying Sets liquid droplets so that the recording unit a pre-delivery of the flying liquid executes droplets in the set number of doses. -11- DE 5409 22. Recording apparatus according to claim 21, characterized characterized in that the environmental condition is the temperature of the liquid and that the dispensing number setting means (154) detects the temperature and adjusts the number of deliveries accordingly. 23. liquid ejection recording device; characterized by a liquid ejection record jQ nion unit (100) with an ejection energy delivery device (102), which act on a liquid in accordance with an applied electrical signal to form flying liquid droplets so that the recording unit can detect the flying liquid p. droplets emits to thereby on a recording material (P) to record a drive device (210) for moving the recording unit in a predetermined direction with respect to the recording material and heat control means (220) for heating the liquid in the recording unit at a Stopping the drive device. 24. Recording device according to claim 23, characterized in that the ejection energy output pre- __ direction (102) an electrothermal energy converter pre-2o has direction for the supply of thermal energy to the liquid and that the heat control device (220) in heating the electrothermal energy converting device for heating the liquid supplies an electrical signal within a range in which no flying liquid droplets are formed. 25. Recording device according to claim 24, characterized characterized in that the recording unit (100) is provided with an external heating device and that 35 the heat control device (220) in heating the -12- DE 5 409. · ' external heater operates to thereby remove the liquid to warm up. c 26. A liquid ejection recording apparatus characterized by a liquid ejection recording unit (100) comprising an ejection energy output device (102) which is an electrothermal energy conversion device has, with which a liquid can be heated in accordance with a supplied electrical signal is to form flying liquid droplets so that the recording unit discharges the flying liquid droplets to thereby write on a recording material (P) a recording unit control device (110), with which the electrical signal can be set in accordance with an input recording signal (SA) and can be fed to the ejection energy delivery device for forming the flying liquid droplets, a thermal controller (140) for adjusting an electrical signal within a range in which no flying liquid droplets are formed on the recording unit controller to thereby to heat the liquid in accordance with an environmental condition, and a discharge control means (150) with a frequency setting device (154) for setting 25 the frequency of the electrical signal at the recording unit controller, wherein the ejection control means after heating the electrical signal for forming the flying liquid droplets with a Frequency below the frequency of the electrical signal 30 adjusts during recording, thereby releasing the flying liquid droplets on the recording unit to allow.