JP2014168896A - Cleaning device of liquid droplet discharge head - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a cleaning device of a liquid droplet discharge device in which deterioration of the productivity and cleaning ability is suppressed to low levels even if nozzle arrays are increased.SOLUTION: A cleaning device 10 of a liquid droplet discharge device includes: a liquid droplet discharge head 1 in which multiple nozzles 2 for discharging droplets are arranged; a cleaning plate 11 which forms a gap G with a discharge surface of the liquid droplet discharge head 1 (a nozzle plate 3); pressurizing means 18 which pumps a fluid from jet holes 13, 14 provided at positions facing each other into the gap G; and negative pressure means 17 which suctions the fluid in the gap G from a suction hole 12 provided at the cleaning plate 11.

Description

  The present invention relates to a liquid ejection head cleaning device that ejects liquid droplets from a number of ejection ports.

  Conventionally, a photolithography method has been widely used as a device manufacturing method for forming a fine wiring pattern such as a semiconductor element or an electronic circuit. However, the photolithography method is a top-down type process, has low material utilization efficiency, is expensive, and has complicated and long processes, which increases the manufacturing cost.

  Therefore, in recent years, attention has been focused on device manufacturing methods such as printing methods that are bottom-up processes, such as offset printing, flexographic printing, screen printing, and ink jet printing. In these printing methods, a pattern is formed by applying conductive fine particles such as metal or ink in which an organic semiconductor is dissolved onto a non-conductive substrate and firing. In particular, inkjet printing can draw electrodes, insulators, semiconductors, etc. directly on a non-conductive substrate, and does not require a mask or other device. As attention has been gathered.

  When ink-jet printing (piezo method, electrostatic method, bubble jet (registered trademark) method, etc.) is used for manufacturing a device, higher ink discharge accuracy and long-term discharge stability are required as compared with normal image formation. In ink jet printing, ink solidified in the nozzle holes and dust attached to the ejection surface cause variations in the ejection shape, ejection speed, and ejection direction of the ink, leading to a decrease in ink ejection accuracy. In addition, due to the partial increase in ink viscosity (high density ink portion) due to the evaporation of the solvent from the nozzle and the mixing of bubbles, the discharge accuracy and the discharge stability are lowered. Therefore, in order to achieve high discharge accuracy and discharge stability, it is necessary to always optimize the state of the nozzle hole and the discharge surface.

  Therefore, the ink ejection function is recovered in the inkjet head (droplet ejection head) by cleaning processes such as a purging process, a capping process, and a wiping process. In addition, a device has been devised to maintain the cleanliness of the ejection surface by covering the ejection surface of the inkjet head (droplet ejection head) with a liquid-repellent coating.

  The purging process is an operation in which a pressure higher than the ink discharge pressure is applied to the ink near the nozzle and the ink is forcibly discarded from the nozzle. It is possible to prevent the nozzles from being clogged by discharging the high density ink portion or removing bubbles. However, in the purging process, it is difficult to uniformly apply pressure to all the nozzles, and thus it is difficult to recover the ink ejection function for all the nozzles. This is because, since the nozzle communicates with a plurality of other nozzles, when there is a nozzle that cannot be ejected and is blocked by the solidified ink, the pressure is released from the adjacent ejectable nozzle. Further, the purging process cannot remove dust adhering to the ejection surface or ink solidified material.

  The capping process is an operation of bringing the cap structure into contact with the ejection surface to isolate it from the outside, generating a negative pressure in the cap structure, and sucking ink in the nozzles. However, in the capping process, when there is a nozzle that cannot be ejected that is blocked by the solidified ink, the ink is ejected from the adjacent ejectable nozzle. Therefore, it is difficult to restore the ink ejection function for all the nozzles, as in the purging process.

  The wiping process is an operation of removing dust and ink solidified matter adhering to the ejection surface by wiping the ejection surface with a blade-like member, as disclosed in Patent Document 1. However, in the wiping process, wear due to contact between the blade-like member and the discharge surface occurs, and thus there is a problem that dust such as wear dust is generated. Further, since many ink jet heads (droplet discharge heads) have a water repellent treatment on the discharge surface, there is a problem that the water repellent effect is reduced when the blade-shaped member comes into contact with the discharge surface. Furthermore, in addition to the fact that the ink often contains an adhesive polymer, the blade member must be brought into contact with a contact pressure that prevents the water-repellent effect on the ejection surface from being lowered. There was also a problem that it was not possible.

  Therefore, in Patent Document 2, a vacuum nozzle is arranged in a non-contact manner for each nozzle row of an inkjet head (droplet discharge head), and the discharge surface and the nozzle hole are cleaned while moving the vacuum nozzle in the nozzle row direction. An apparatus for performing the above has been proposed. According to the cleaning by this apparatus, it is possible to reduce the variation in the cleaning ability of each nozzle as compared with the passing process or the capping process. In addition, since the discharge surface is not in contact with the vacuum nozzle, the generation of dust such as wear dust and damage to the discharge surface (scratches, peeling of water repellent treatment, etc.) are suppressed compared to wiping the discharge surface with a blade member. can do.

  Further, in Patent Document 3, a cleaning plate is disposed so as to face an ink jet head (droplet discharge head), and a fluid is sent out to a gap formed in a space therebetween, thereby cleaning the discharge surface and the nozzle hole. An apparatus for performing has been proposed. Specifically, a fluid is fed into the gap from a delivery outlet provided on one end side in the short direction of the head, and a fluid that takes in ink or dust adhering to the ejection surface is provided on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the head. Suction through the suction port or collect in the collection tank. According to the cleaning by the apparatus described in Patent Document 3, the variation in the cleaning ability for each nozzle can be reduced as compared with the passing process and the capping process. The discharge surface and the cleaning plate are not in contact with each other, and the fluid is in contact with the discharge surface. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the generation of dust such as wear dust and damage to the discharge surface (scratches, peeling of the water repellent treatment, etc.) as compared with the case where the discharge surface is wiped with a blade member.

  However, in order to increase resolution and improve productivity, inkjet heads (droplet ejection heads) are often arranged with a large number of nozzle rows in the short direction of the head. In the apparatus described in Patent Document 2, when a large number of nozzle rows are arranged, there is a problem that a sufficient suction force does not act on a nozzle that is displaced from the center of the vacuum nozzle. Therefore, when a large number of nozzle rows are arranged, it is necessary to scan the vacuum nozzles with respect to all the nozzles, and the tact time is increased and the productivity is lowered. Although there is a method of increasing the nozzle diameter and shape of the vacuum nozzle and simultaneously cleaning multiple nozzles, a pump with a large displacement is required to secure sufficient suction power, which reduces productivity such as increased costs. There is a problem of being connected.

  In addition, in the apparatus described in Patent Document 3, when a large number of nozzle rows are arranged, the ink and dust discharged from the upstream nozzles in the fluid movement direction are recycled to the discharge surface on the downstream side. There was a problem of adhering and contaminating the discharge surface. Furthermore, since it is separated from the suction port arranged on the downstream side as it goes upstream, there is a problem that a sufficient suction force cannot be obtained in the nozzle hole on the upstream side or the discharge surface.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning device for a droplet discharge device that has a low degree of decrease in productivity and cleaning ability even when the number of nozzle rows increases. .

  In order to solve the above problems, the invention of claim 1 is directed to a cleaning device for a droplet discharge device including a droplet discharge head in which a plurality of nozzles for discharging droplets are arranged. A cleaning plate that forms a gap therebetween, delivery means for delivering fluid into the gap from at least a pair of delivery ports provided at positions facing each other, and the gap from at least one suction port provided in the cleaning plate And a suction means for sucking the fluid inside.

  In the present invention, ink or dust adhering to the nozzle hole or the discharge surface of the droplet discharge head is taken into the fluid sent into the gap by the sending means and collected by the suction means, and many nozzle holes are collected at once. The inside and the discharge surface can be cleaned. Therefore, even if the number of nozzle rows increases, the degree of decrease in productivity and cleaning ability is small as compared with the case where cleaning is performed only by suction means such as vacuum nozzles. Moreover, in this invention, a fluid is sent out in a gap from a pair of delivery port provided in the position (both end side of a gap) which mutually faces. Therefore, when the fluid is sent in one direction from the delivery port provided on one end side, a part of the area where the ink and dust after washing are reattached on the downstream side is provided at a position facing the delivery port on the one end side. It is cleaned by the fluid sent out from the delivery port on the other end side. In addition, since the suction port is provided in the cleaning plate, the distance between the delivery port and the suction port is smaller than when the delivery port and the suction port are arranged across the clean plate, and the suction force is in the gap. It is easy to reach. In other words, the present invention in which fluid flows from the outlets at both ends of the gap has higher cleaning ability and more nozzle rows than when fluid is sent only from the outlets at one end of the gap having the same number of nozzle rows. However, it can be said that the degree of decrease in the cleaning ability is small. As described above, the present invention has an excellent effect that the degree of decrease in productivity and cleaning ability is small even if the number of nozzle rows increases.

The lineblock diagram showing the whole cleaning device composition concerning a 1st embodiment. (A) is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the first embodiment, and (b) is a plan view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus. (A) is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the second embodiment, (b) is a plan view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the second and third embodiments, (c). FIG. 4 is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 4D is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. (A) is a side view which shows the structure of the principal part of the washing | cleaning apparatus which concerns on 5th Embodiment, (b) is a top view which shows the structure of the principal part of the washing | cleaning apparatus. (A) is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the sixth, seventh and eighth embodiments, (b) is a plan view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus, and (c) is the seventh. The top view which shows the structure of the washing | cleaning apparatus principal part which concerns on this embodiment, (d) is a top view which shows the structure of the washing | cleaning apparatus principal part which concerns on 8th Embodiment. (A) is a side view showing a configuration of a main part of a cleaning apparatus according to an eighth embodiment for cleaning a nozzle plate in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged in a staggered manner in four rows, and (b) is a main part of the same cleaning apparatus. FIG. The side view which shows the structure of the washing | cleaning apparatus principal part which concerns on 9th Embodiment. (A), (b), (c) is process drawing explaining the washing | cleaning process of the washing | cleaning apparatus which concerns on 9th Embodiment.

Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to an inkjet head cleaning apparatus which is a droplet discharge apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings.
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing the overall configuration of the cleaning apparatus according to the first embodiment. 2A is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a plan view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus. An inkjet head 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a nozzle plate 3 that is a droplet discharge head in which a plurality of nozzles 2 are arranged in a staggered manner in two rows.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the cleaning apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment includes a cleaning tank 100 that is an isolation unit that isolates the nozzle plate 3 of the inkjet head 1 from the outside. When cleaning the inkjet head 1, the inkjet head 1 is lowered toward the opening 101 of the cleaning tank 100, and the nozzle plate 3 is inserted into the opening 101 of the cleaning tank 100. This is to prevent the washed ink and dust from contaminating the outside of the washing tank, that is, the other space where the printing process is performed.

  An elastic body 102 is installed on the upper surface of the cleaning tank 100 facing the inkjet head 1. By bringing the inkjet head 1 and the cleaning tank 100 into contact with each other via the elastic body 102, it is possible to maintain the adhesion and sealing properties between the inkjet head 1 and the cleaning tank 100. And this washing tank 100 is connected to the negative pressure means 104 via the three-way valve 103, and the inside of the washing tank 100 can be decompressed. Moreover, it is possible to return the inside of the washing tank 100 to atmospheric pressure by connecting the three-way valve 103 to the atmosphere side. Thereby, the cleaning apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment can perform the capping process separately from the cleaning by the cleaning plate described later (the same applies to the embodiments described below). In the capping process, the ink in the nozzle 3 can be eliminated by sucking the high-density ink in the nozzle 3 by reducing the pressure in the cleaning tank 100.

  The cleaning apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment includes a cleaning plate 11 that forms a gap G between the nozzle plate 3 and the ejection surface 3a, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A. . The cleaning plate 11 can be reciprocated in the vertical direction in FIG. 1 by an actuator (not shown) so that the gap can be adjusted. The distance between the gaps (the distance between the ejection surface and the cleaning plate) is preferably 100 μm to 1 cm, more preferably 0.5 mm to 8 mm, and still more preferably 1 mm to 5 mm. By adjusting the distance between the gaps, the flow rate of the fluid flowing through the gap G can be adjusted, and the suction force by the suction holes described later can be adjusted (the same applies to the embodiments described below).

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 2B, the cleaning plate 11 is not sized to cover the entire area of the ejection surface 3a, but is sized to cover a substantially half area of the ejection surface 3a. The cleaning plate 11 can reciprocate in the nozzle row direction (the arrow Y direction in the figure), which is the longitudinal direction of the head, while maintaining a gap G between the cleaning plate 11 and the ejection surface 3a by an actuator (not shown). Thereby, the cleaning plate 11 can wash | clean the whole area | region of the discharge surface 3a, aiming at size reduction. The cleaning plate 11 may be sized to cover the entire area of the ejection surface instead of being movable.

  A suction hole 12 serving as a suction port is provided in the central portion of the cleaning plate 11 (position facing the center line of the two nozzle rows) so as to penetrate in a direction perpendicular to the ejection surface 3a. As shown in FIG. 1, the suction hole 12 is connected to a negative pressure means 17 serving as a suction means through a waste liquid tank 16 and a valve. As a result, as will be described later, the ink and dust discharged during cleaning can be collected in the waste liquid tank 16. At this time, since the center axis of the nozzle 2 and the center axis of the suction hole 12 are shifted, it is not necessary to scan each nozzle row even when a plurality of nozzle rows are provided.

  The cleaning device 10 has three pairs of injection holes 13a and 13b serving as outlets for sending fluid into the gap G at both ends in the row direction (arrow X direction in the figure) of the nozzle, which is the short direction of the head. , 13c, 14a, 14b, and 14c. As shown in FIG. 1, these injection holes 13 and 14 are connected to a pressurizing means 18 serving as a delivery means via a valve, and the pressurized fluid is directed into the gap G in the row direction of the nozzle (see FIG. Injected in the middle arrow X direction). As shown in FIG. 2A, the fluid ejected from the ejection hole 13 proceeds to the right along the ejection surface 3a to reach the suction hole 12, and the fluid ejected from the ejection hole 14 is ejected from the ejection surface. It proceeds to the left along 3a and reaches the suction hole 12. As the fluid used here, it is desirable to use a material that is soluble in ink, such as air, nitrogen, or argon if it is a gas, preferably an ink solvent (also in the embodiments described below). The same).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2B, these injection holes 13 and 14 are reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (arrow Y direction in the figure) in conjunction with the reciprocating movement of the cleaning plate 11 by an actuator (not shown). It is configured to be movable. Accordingly, as described above, it is not necessary to install many injection holes, and the apparatus can be reduced in size and cost.

  In the cleaning apparatus 10 having the above-described configuration, the pressurized fluid is injected into the gap G from the injection holes 13 and 14 disposed at both ends of the nozzle in the row direction. At the same time, the suction hole 12 depressurizes the gap G by the depressurizing means. As a result, the ink and dust adhering to the inside of the nozzle 2 and the ejection surface 3 a are collected in the central portion (above the suction hole 12) by the fluid ejected into the gap G, and collected in the waste liquid tank 16 through the suction hole 12. Is done. The above-described cleaning device 10 can prevent generation of dust due to wear of the discharge surface 3a and damage to the discharge surface 3a (such as scratches and peeling of the water-repellent treatment) as compared with the case where the blade is wiped on the discharge surface 3a. it can.

  The clean plate 11 is preferably subjected to water repellent treatment on the surface facing the ejection surface 3a. It is possible to prevent ink and dust generated during cleaning from adhering to the cleaning plate 11. Accordingly, ink or dust does not remain in the gap G, and these can be discharged by the suction holes 12 (the same applies to the embodiments described below).

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 3A is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 3B is a plan view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus. An inkjet head (droplet discharge head) 4 shown in FIG. 3 includes a nozzle plate 6 in which a plurality of nozzles 5 are arranged in a staggered manner in four rows.

  The cleaning device according to the second embodiment includes a cleaning plate 21 that forms a gap G between the nozzle plate 6 and the ejection surface 6a, as shown in FIG. As described in the first embodiment, the cleaning plate 21 can be reciprocated in the vertical direction in FIG. 3A by an actuator (not shown), and the gap can be adjusted. The cleaning plate 21 can be reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (Y direction in the figure) while maintaining a gap G between the cleaning plate 21 and the ejection surface 6a by an actuator (not shown). Thereby, the cleaning plate 21 can wash | clean the whole area | region of the discharge surface 6a, aiming at size reduction.

  Further, a suction hole 22 serving as a suction means is provided in the central portion of the cleaning plate 21 (position facing the center line of the four nozzle rows). The suction hole 22 is connected to the negative pressure means 17 through the waste liquid tank 16 as described in the first embodiment. As a result, the ink and dust discharged during the cleaning can be collected in the waste liquid tank 16.

  The cleaning device 20 includes three pairs of injection holes 23a, 23b, 23c, and 24a that send fluid into the gap G at both ends of the nozzle in the row direction (arrow X direction in the figure), which is the short direction of the head. , 24b, 24c. As described in the first embodiment, these injection holes 23 and 24 are connected to the pressurizing means 18 through a valve, and inject the pressurized fluid into the gap G.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 3B, the injection direction of the injection holes 23 and 24 is inclined at an angle α from the nozzle row direction (the arrow X direction in the figure) toward the traveling direction of the cleaning plate. It is attached. As a result, the fluids ejected from the ejection holes 23 and 24 intersect each other, and are scattered when colliding at the center of the cleaning plate 21 as compared with the fluid ejected from the ejection holes having an angle α of 0 degrees. The direction is limited to the traveling direction. In other words, it is possible to limit the scattering direction of dust and ink separated from the nozzle 5 and the discharge surface 6a to the traveling direction. As a result, it is possible to narrow the range in which the washed ink and dust are reattached to the washed ejection surface 6a. The angle α is preferably between 5 degrees and 85 degrees, more preferably 15 to 75 degrees, and still more preferably 30 to 60 degrees.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3B, these injection holes 23 and 24 reciprocate in the nozzle row direction (arrow Y direction in the figure) in conjunction with the reciprocating movement of the cleaning plate 21 by an actuator (not shown). It is movable. Thereby, as described above, for example, it is not necessary to install a large number of injection holes, and the apparatus can be reduced in size and cost.

  In the cleaning device 20 having the above-described configuration, the pressurized fluid is injected into the gap G from the injection holes 23 and 24 arranged at both ends in the row direction of the nozzle. At the same time, the suction hole 22 depressurizes the gap G by the depressurizing means. As a result, the ink and dust adhering to the nozzle 5 and the ejection surface 6 a are collected in the central portion (above the suction hole 22) by the fluid ejected into the gap G, and collected in the waste liquid tank 16 through the suction hole 22. Is done.

[Third Embodiment]
FIG.3 (c) is a side view which shows the structure of the principal part of the washing | cleaning apparatus based on 3rd Embodiment. FIG.3 (b) is a top view which shows the structure of the principal part of the washing | cleaning apparatus.

  As shown in FIG. 3C, the cleaning device 30 according to the third embodiment includes a cleaning plate 31 that forms a gap G between the nozzle plate 6 and the ejection surface 6 a. As described in the first embodiment, the cleaning plate 31 can be reciprocated in the vertical direction in FIG. 3C by an actuator (not shown), and the gap can be adjusted. The cleaning plate 31 can be reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (Y direction in the figure) while maintaining a gap G between the cleaning plate 31 and the ejection surface 6a by an actuator (not shown). Thereby, the cleaning plate 31 can wash | clean the whole area | region of the discharge surface 6a, aiming at size reduction.

  Further, a suction hole 32 as a suction means is provided in the central portion of the cleaning plate 31 (position facing the center line of the nozzle row). The suction hole 32 is connected to the negative pressure means 17 through the waste liquid tank 16 as described in the first embodiment. As a result, the ink and dust discharged during the cleaning can be collected in the waste liquid tank 16.

  The cleaning device 30 has three pairs of injection holes 33a, 33b, 33c, and 34a that feed fluid into the gap G at both ends of the nozzle in the row direction (arrow X direction in the figure), which is the short direction of the head. , 34b, 34c. As described in the first embodiment, these injection holes 33 and 34 are connected to the pressurizing means 18 through a valve, and inject the pressurized fluid into the gap G.

  Here, as described in the second embodiment, the injection direction of the injection holes 33 and 34 is inclined at an angle α from the nozzle row direction (arrow X direction in the figure) toward the traveling direction of the cleaning plate 31. Is attached. Further, these injection holes 33 and 34 are arranged at an angle with respect to the ejection surface 6a, and an extension line (indicated by a dotted line in the figure) of the injection holes 33 and 34 in the fluid injection direction is the outermost nozzle row 5 ′. It intersects with the discharge surface 6a outside. The ejection holes 33 and 34 can generate a fluid flow in a portion closer to the ejection surface 6 a, and the fluid can reduce fluid loss due to friction with the ejection surface 6 a and the cleaning plate 31. Thereby, the suction force by the suction hole 32 can be increased. In addition, as shown to FIG.3 (b) (c), the angle which inclines an injection hole does not necessarily need to have in both directions, and it is sufficient to have either one.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3B, these injection holes 33 and 34 are reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (arrow Y direction in the figure) in conjunction with the reciprocating movement of the cleaning plate 31 by an actuator (not shown). It is possible to move. Accordingly, as described above, it is not necessary to install a large number of injection holes, and the apparatus can be reduced in size and cost.

  In the cleaning device 30 having the above-described configuration, the pressurized fluid is injected into the gap G from the injection holes 33 and 34 arranged at both ends in the row direction of the nozzle. At the same time, the suction hole 32 depressurizes the gap G by the depressurizing means. As a result, the ink and dust adhering to the nozzle 5 and the ejection surface 6 a are collected in the central portion (above the suction hole 32) by the fluid ejected into the gap G and collected in the waste liquid tank 16 through the suction hole 32. Is done.

[Fourth Embodiment]
FIG.3 (d) is a side view which shows the structure of the principal part of the washing | cleaning apparatus based on 4th Embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 3D, the cleaning device according to the fourth embodiment includes a cleaning plate 41 that forms a gap G between the ejection surface 6 a of the inkjet head 6. As described in the first embodiment, the cleaning plate 41 can be reciprocated in the vertical direction in FIG. 3D by an actuator (not shown), and the gap can be adjusted. The cleaning plate 41 can be reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (Y direction in the figure) while maintaining the gap G between the cleaning plate 41 and the ejection surface 6a by an actuator (not shown). Thereby, the cleaning plate 41 can wash | clean the whole area | region of the discharge surface 6a, aiming at size reduction.

  A suction hole 42 as a suction means is provided in the central portion of the cleaning plate 41 (position facing the center line of the four nozzle rows). Further, on both sides of the suction hole 42, auxiliary suction holes 45 and 46 having a width smaller than that of the suction hole 42 are provided. The suction holes 42 and the sub suction holes 45 and 46 are connected to the negative pressure means 17 via the waste liquid tank 16 as described in the first embodiment. As a result, even when there are a large number of nozzle rows, the ink and dust discharged during cleaning can be more reliably collected in the waste liquid tank 16.

  The cleaning device 40 has three pairs of injection holes 43a, 43b, 43c, and 44a that feed the fluid into the gap G at both ends of the nozzle in the row direction (arrow X direction in the figure), which is the short direction of the head. , 44b, 44c. These injection holes 43 and 44 are connected to the pressurizing means 18 via valves as described in the first embodiment, and inject the pressurized fluid into the gap G. These injection holes are configured to be able to reciprocate in the nozzle row direction (arrow Y direction in the figure) in conjunction with the movement of the cleaning plate by an actuator (not shown). Accordingly, as described above, it is not necessary to install many injection holes, and the apparatus can be reduced in size and cost.

  In the cleaning device 40 having the above-described configuration, the pressurized fluid is injected into the gap G from the injection holes 43 and 44 disposed at both ends in the row direction of the nozzle. At the same time, the suction 42 depressurizes the gap G by the depressurizing means. As a result, the ink and dust adhering to the inside of the nozzle 5 and the discharge surface 6a are collected into the waste liquid tank 16 through the suction holes 42 and the sub suction holes 45 and 46 by the fluid ejected into the gap G.

[Fifth Embodiment]
FIG. 4A is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the fifth embodiment, and FIG. 4B is a plan view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus. An inkjet head (droplet discharge head) 1 shown in FIG. 4 includes a nozzle plate 3 in which a plurality of nozzles 2 are arranged in a staggered manner in two rows.

  As shown in FIG. 4A, the cleaning apparatus according to the fifth embodiment includes a cleaning plate 51 that forms a gap G between the nozzle plate 3 and the ejection surface 3 a. As described in the first embodiment, the cleaning plate 51 can be reciprocated in the vertical direction in FIG. 4A by an actuator (not shown), and the gap can be adjusted. The cleaning plate 51 can be reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (Y direction in the figure) while maintaining a gap G between the cleaning plate 51 and the ejection surface 3a by an actuator (not shown). As a result, the cleaning plate 51 can clean the entire area of the ejection surface 3a while reducing the size.

  A suction hole 52 as a suction means is provided in the central portion of the cleaning plate 51 (position facing the center line of the two nozzle rows). The suction hole 52 is connected to the negative pressure means 17 via the waste liquid tank 16 as described in the first embodiment. As a result, the ink and dust discharged during the cleaning can be collected in the waste liquid tank 16.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 4A, a groove 51 a into which the discharge surface 3 a of the nozzle plate 3 is fitted is formed on the upper surface of the cleaning plate 51. Further, three pairs of injection holes 53a, 53b, 53c, 54a, 54b, and 54c are provided at both ends in the row direction of the nozzle of the cleaning plate 51, that is, the standing portions 51b and 51c that form the groove 51a. In the cleaning device 50, since the cleaning plate 51 and the injection holes 53 and 54 are integrally formed of the same member, the number of parts can be reduced and the cost can be reduced compared to the case where the injection holes are formed separately. Is possible. In addition, as will be described later, the adjustment of the direction of the ejection direction of the fluid from the ejection holes is also simple.

  As described in the first embodiment, the injection holes 53 and 54 provided in the cleaning plate 51 are connected to the pressurizing means 18 via the valve, and the pressurized fluid is put into the gap G. The nozzle is directed in the row direction (arrow X direction in the figure). As shown in FIG. 4A, the fluid ejected from the ejection hole 53 proceeds to the right along the ejection surface 3a and reaches the suction hole 52, and the fluid ejected from the ejection hole 54 is ejected from the ejection surface. It proceeds to the left along 3a and reaches the suction hole 52. At this time, since the openings of the injection holes 53 and 54 are installed close to the gap G, the fluid is efficiently directed from the injection holes 53 and 54 toward the gap G as compared with the case where the injection holes are formed separately. It is possible to flow.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 4B, these injection holes 53 and 54 reciprocate in the direction of the nozzle row (in the direction of arrow Y in the figure) in conjunction with the reciprocating movement of the cleaning plate 51 by an actuator (not shown). It is possible to move. Accordingly, as described above, it is not necessary to install a large number of injection holes, and the apparatus can be reduced in size and cost.

  In the cleaning device 50 having the above-described configuration, the pressurized fluid is injected into the gap G from the injection holes 53 and 54 arranged at both ends in the row direction of the nozzle. At the same time, the suction hole 52 depressurizes the gap G by the depressurizing means. As a result, the ink and dust adhering to the nozzle 2 and the ejection surface 3 a are collected in the central portion (above the suction hole 52) by the fluid ejected into the gap G and collected in the waste liquid tank 16 through the suction hole 52. Is done.

[Sixth Embodiment]
FIG. 5A is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the sixth embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a plan view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus. An inkjet head (droplet discharge head) 1 shown in FIG. 5 includes a nozzle plate 3 in which a plurality of nozzles 2 are arranged in a staggered manner in two rows.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the cleaning device 60 according to the sixth embodiment includes a cleaning plate 61 that forms a gap G with the ejection surface 3 a of the nozzle plate 3. As described in the first embodiment, the cleaning plate 61 can be reciprocated in the vertical direction in FIG. 5A by an actuator (not shown), and the gap can be adjusted. The cleaning plate 61 can reciprocate in the nozzle row direction (Y direction in the figure) while maintaining a gap G between the cleaning plate 61 and the ejection surface 3a by an actuator (not shown). As a result, the cleaning plate 61 can clean the entire area of the ejection surface 3a while reducing the size.

  A suction hole 62 serving as suction means is provided in the central portion of the cleaning plate 61 (position facing the center line of the two nozzle rows). The suction hole 62 is connected to the negative pressure means 17 through the waste liquid tank 16 as described in the first embodiment. As a result, the ink and dust discharged during the cleaning can be collected in the waste liquid tank 16.

  Further, three pairs of injection holes 63 a, 63 b, 63 c, 64 a, 64 b, and 64 c are provided at both ends of the cleaning plate 61 in the row direction in a direction substantially parallel to the suction holes 62. The openings of the ejection holes 63 and 64 are inclined at a predetermined angle from the direction orthogonal to the ejection surface 3a, and an extension line (indicated by a dotted line in the figure) of the fluid ejection direction is the outermost nozzle row 2. It intersects with the discharge surface 3a on the outer side of '. These injection holes 63 and 64 are connected to the pressurizing unit 18 as described in the first embodiment, and inject the pressurized fluid into the gap G. The ejection holes 63 and 64 can generate a fluid flow in a portion closer to the discharge surface 3a, and the fluid can reduce fluid loss due to friction with the discharge surface 3a and the cleaning plate 61. Thereby, the suction force by the suction hole 62 can be increased.

  In the cleaning device 60 having the above-described configuration, the pressurized fluid is injected into the gap G from the injection holes 63 and 64 arranged at both ends in the row direction of the nozzle. At the same time, the suction hole 62 depressurizes the gap G by the depressurizing means. As a result, the ink and dust adhering to the nozzle 2 and the ejection surface 3 a are collected in the central portion (above the suction hole 62) by the fluid ejected into the gap G and collected in the waste liquid tank 16 through the suction hole 62. Is done.

[Seventh Embodiment]
FIG. 5A is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the seventh embodiment, and FIG. 5C is a plan view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the seventh embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the cleaning device 70 according to the seventh embodiment includes a cleaning plate 71 that forms a gap G between the nozzle plate 3 and the nozzle discharge 3 a. As described in the first embodiment, the cleaning plate 71 can be reciprocated in the vertical direction in FIG. 7A by an actuator (not shown), and the gap can be adjusted. The cleaning plate 71 can be reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (Y direction in the figure) while maintaining a gap G between the cleaning plate 71 and the ejection surface 3a by an actuator not shown. Thus, the cleaning plate 71 can clean the entire area of the ejection surface 3a while reducing the size.

  A suction hole 72, which is a suction means, is provided in the central portion of the cleaning plate 71 (position facing the center line of the two rows of nozzles). The suction hole 72 is connected to the negative pressure means 17 via the waste liquid tank 16 as described in the first embodiment. As a result, the ink and dust discharged during the cleaning can be collected in the waste liquid tank 16.

  Further, three pairs of injection holes 73 a, 73 b, 73 c, 74 a, 74 b, and 74 c are provided at both ends of the cleaning plate 71 in the row direction in a direction substantially parallel to the suction holes 72. The openings of the ejection holes 73 and 74 are inclined at a predetermined angle from the direction orthogonal to the ejection surface 3a, and an extension line (indicated by a dotted line in the drawing) of the fluid ejection direction is the outermost nozzle row 2. It intersects with the discharge surface 3a on the outer side of '. These injection holes 73 and 74 are connected to the pressurizing unit 18 as described in the first embodiment, and inject the pressurized fluid into the gap G.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 5C, the injection direction of the injection holes 73 and 74 is inclined at an angle α from the nozzle row direction (arrow X direction in the figure) toward the traveling direction of the cleaning plate. It is attached. As a result, the fluids ejected from the ejection holes 73 and 74 cross each other, and the scattering direction when colliding with the central portion of the cleaning plate 71 compared to the fluid ejected from the ejection holes having an angle α of 0 degrees. Is limited to the direction of travel. That is, it is possible to limit the scattering direction of dust and ink separated from the nozzle 2 and the ejection surface 3a to the traveling direction. As a result, it is possible to narrow the range in which the cleaned dust and ink solidified material are reattached to the cleaned discharge surface 3a.

  In the cleaning device 70 having the above-described configuration, the pressurized fluid is injected into the gap G from the injection holes 73 and 74 disposed at both ends in the row direction of the nozzle. At the same time, the suction hole 72 depressurizes the gap G by the depressurizing means. As a result, the ink and dust adhering to the nozzle 2 and the ejection surface 3 a are collected in the central portion (above the suction hole 72) by the fluid ejected into the gap G and collected in the waste liquid tank 16 through the suction hole 72. Is done.

[Eighth Embodiment]
FIG. 5A is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the eighth embodiment, and FIG. 5D is a plan view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the eighth embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the cleaning device 80 according to the eighth embodiment includes a cleaning plate 81 that forms a gap G with the ejection surface 3 a of the nozzle plate 3. As described in the first embodiment, the cleaning plate 81 can be reciprocated in the vertical direction in FIG. 5A by an actuator (not shown), and the gap can be adjusted. The cleaning plate 81 can be reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (Y direction in the figure) while maintaining a gap G between the cleaning plate 81 and the ejection surface 3a by an actuator (not shown). Thus, the cleaning plate 81 can clean the entire area of the ejection surface 3a while reducing the size.

  A suction hole 82 as a suction means is provided in the central portion of the cleaning plate 81 (position facing the center line of the two rows of nozzles). The suction hole 82 is connected to the negative pressure means 17 via the waste liquid tank 16 as described in the first embodiment. As a result, the ink and dust discharged during the cleaning can be collected in the waste liquid tank 16.

  In addition, a pair of injection holes 83 and 84 are provided at both ends in the row direction of the nozzle of the cleaning plate 81 in a direction substantially parallel to the suction hole 62. The openings of these injection holes 83 and 84 are formed in a slit shape that is long in the row direction of the nozzles. The openings of the ejection holes 83 and 84 are inclined at a predetermined angle from the direction orthogonal to the ejection surface 3a, and an extension line (indicated by a dotted line in the figure) of the fluid ejection direction is the outermost nozzle. It intersects with the ejection surface 3a outside the row 2 '. As described in the first embodiment, these injection holes 83 and 84 are connected to the pressurizing means 18 and inject the pressurized fluid into the gap G. Further, the ejection holes 83 and 84 can generate a fluid flow in a portion closer to the ejection surface 3a, and the fluid can reduce fluid loss due to friction with the ejection surface 3a and the cleaning plate 81. Thereby, the suction force by the suction hole 82 can be increased.

  In the cleaning device 80 configured as described above, pressurized fluid is injected into the gap G from the injection holes 83 and 84 arranged at both ends in the row direction of the nozzle. At the same time, the suction hole 82 depressurizes the gap G by the depressurizing means. As a result, the ink and dust adhering to the nozzle 2 and the ejection surface 3 a are collected in the central portion (above the suction hole 62) by the fluid ejected into the gap G and collected in the waste liquid tank 16 through the suction hole 82. Is done. Further, in the cleaning device 80 having the above configuration, the length of the nozzle holes 83 and 84 in the row direction of the nozzles 83 and 84 is longer than the diameter of the nozzle 2, so that the cleaning plate 81 is moved at the same speed as the nozzle plate 3 during cleaning. Even if it is moved, there is an advantage that the cleaning time per nozzle can be extended.

  In addition, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the cleaning devices 60, 70, and 80 configured as shown in FIGS. A cleaning device for an inkjet head (droplet discharge head) 4 including nozzle plates 6 arranged in a staggered manner may be used.

[Ninth Embodiment]
FIG. 7 is a side view showing the configuration of the main part of the cleaning apparatus according to the ninth embodiment. 8A, 8B, and 8C are process diagrams illustrating a cleaning process of the cleaning device according to the ninth embodiment. An inkjet head (droplet discharge head) 1 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 includes a nozzle plate 3 in which a plurality of nozzles 2 are arranged in a staggered manner in two rows.

  As illustrated in FIG. 7, the cleaning device 110 according to the ninth embodiment includes a cleaning plate 111 that forms a gap G between the nozzle plate 3 and the ejection surface 3 a. As described in the fifth embodiment, the cleaning plate 111 can be reciprocated in the vertical direction in FIG. 7 by an actuator (not shown), and the gap can be adjusted. The cleaning plate 111 can be reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (Y direction in the figure) while maintaining a gap G between the cleaning plate 111 and the ejection surface 3a by an actuator (not shown). As a result, the cleaning plate 111 can clean the entire area of the ejection surface 3a while reducing the size.

  A suction hole 112 as a suction means is provided in the central portion of the cleaning plate 111 (position facing the center line of the two nozzle rows). The suction hole 112 is connected to the negative pressure means 17 through the waste liquid tank 16 as described in the first embodiment. As a result, the cleaning liquid 117, ink, and dust discharged at the time of cleaning can be collected in the waste liquid tank 16.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, a groove 111 a into which the ejection surface 3 a of the nozzle plate 3 is fitted is formed on the upper surface of the cleaning plate 111. In addition, ejection holes 113 and 114 are provided at both ends of the nozzle of the cleaning plate 111 in the row direction, that is, at the standing portions 111b and 111c that form the groove 111a.

  As described in the first embodiment, the injection holes 113 and 114 provided in the cleaning plate 111 are connected to the pressurizing means 18 through the valve, and the pressurized fluid is introduced into the gap G. In the nozzle row direction (arrow X direction in the figure) is injected. At this time, since the openings of the injection holes 113 and 114 are installed close to the gap G, the fluid is directed from the injection holes 113 and 114 to the gap G as compared with the case where the injection holes are configured separately. Can flow efficiently.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 4B, these injection holes 113 and 114 are reciprocated in the nozzle row direction (arrow Y direction in the figure) in conjunction with the reciprocating movement of the cleaning plate 111 by an actuator (not shown). It is possible to move. Accordingly, as described above, it is not necessary to install a large number of injection holes, and the apparatus can be reduced in size and cost.

  Further, a pair of ultrasonic wave generating means 115 and 116 is installed on the cleaning plate 111 on both sides of the suction hole 112. The ultrasonic generators 115 and 116 generate ultrasonic waves toward the ejection surface during fluid ejection and / or suction, and use energy for removing dust and ink attached to the nozzle 2 and the ejection surface 3a. Can be given. In particular, when it is difficult to remove the ink, for example, even when the ink in which the metal particles are dispersed is fused in the nozzle 2 or the ejection surface 3a, the ink can be removed.

  In the cleaning apparatus having the above-described configuration, it is effective to perform cleaning by the following procedure. As shown in FIG. 8A, the cleaning liquid 117 is sprayed onto the cleaning plate 111 from the spray holes 113 and 114. Then, as shown in FIG. 8B, the nozzle plate 3 is lowered to bring the ejection surface 3 a into contact with the cleaning liquid 117 on the cleaning plate 111. In this state, ultrasonic waves are emitted from the ultrasonic wave generation means 115 and 116 toward the ejection surface 3a. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 8C, suction is performed from the suction holes 112 while ejecting gas as fluid through the ejection holes 113 and 114, and the cleaning liquid 117 that has taken in dust and ink is removed.

  In the first to ninth embodiments, a nozzle plate in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged in a staggered manner in two or four rows is illustrated, but there is no restriction on the number or arrangement of nozzles. Moreover, there is no restriction | limiting in the shape of the said suction hole and injection hole. For example, a shape that generates a swirling flow may be formed on the inner wall of the injection hole.

What has been described above is merely an example, and the present invention has a specific effect for each of the following modes.
(Aspect A)
Cleaning devices 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 of a droplet discharge device including a droplet discharge head such as a droplet discharge head 1, 4 in which nozzles such as a plurality of nozzles 2, 5 that discharge droplets are arranged. In cleaning apparatuses such as 60, 70, 80, 90, and 110, cleaning plates 11, 21, 31, 41, 51, 61, and 71 that form gaps such as a gap G between the discharge surfaces of the droplet discharge heads. , 81, 91, 111, etc., and jet holes 13, 14, 23, 24, 33, 34, 43, 44, 53, 54, 63, 64, 73, 74, 83, 84, 93, 94, 113, 114, and the like are provided on the cleaning plate, and a delivery means such as a pressurizing means 18 for sending fluid into the gap from at least a pair of delivery ports. Suction means such as negative pressure means 17 for sucking fluid in the gap from at least one suction port such as suction holes 12, 22, 32, 42, 52, 62, 72, 82, 92, 112, etc. Is provided.
According to this, as described in the first to ninth embodiments, the degree of decrease in productivity and cleaning capability is small even if the number of nozzle rows increases or the number of nozzle rows increases.
(Aspect B)
In the cleaning apparatus for a droplet discharge device according to (Aspect A), the pair of delivery ports are disposed at positions facing each other on both sides in the short direction of the droplet discharge head.
According to this, as described in the first to ninth embodiments, the cleaning ability is high as compared with the case where the delivery means sends out the fluid in the longitudinal direction.
(Aspect C)
In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to (Aspect B), the cleaning plate can reciprocate in the longitudinal direction of the droplet discharge head.
According to this, as described in the first to ninth embodiments, the apparatus can be downsized as compared with the case where the cleaning plate is configured to cover the entire area of the ejection surface. .
(Aspect D)
In the cleaning apparatus for a droplet discharge device according to (Aspect B) or (Aspect C), the delivery port can reciprocate in the longitudinal direction of the droplet discharge head.
According to this, as described in the first to ninth embodiments, the number of sending means can be reduced, and the size and cost of the apparatus can be reduced.
(Aspect E)
(Aspect A) (Aspect B) In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to (Aspect C) or (Aspect D), at least one suction port is disposed at an intermediate position between the pair of delivery ports.
According to this, as described in the first to ninth embodiments, it is possible to efficiently recover the fluid that has taken in ink and dust in the gap.
(Aspect F)
(Aspect A) (Aspect B) (Aspect C) In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to (Aspect D) or (Aspect E), the delivery directions of the fluid from the pair of delivery ports intersect.
According to this, as explained in the second embodiment, the third embodiment, and the seventh embodiment, the scattering direction when the fluids sent from the pair of delivery ports collide with each other is limited. And the most contamination after washing can be suppressed.
(Aspect G)
(Aspect A) (Aspect B) (Aspect C) (Aspect D) (Aspect E) or (Aspect F) In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device, the direction in which the fluid is sent out from the outlet is the discharge surface. The extended line in the delivery direction intersects the discharge surface outside the outermost nozzle row arranged on the outermost side.
According to this, as explained in the third embodiment, the sixth embodiment to the eighth embodiment, the fluid delivery means can be arranged in the vicinity of the nozzle. The fluid loss due to the friction can be reduced. In addition, the cleaning plate can be downsized.
(Aspect H)
(Aspect A) (Aspect B) (Aspect C) (Aspect D) (Aspect E) (Aspect F) In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device of (Aspect G), the delivery port is formed integrally with the cleaning plate. Is done.
According to this, as described in the second embodiment, the fifth embodiment to the ninth embodiment, the apparatus can be reduced in size and cost, and the fluid can be efficiently delivered into the gap. Is possible.
(Aspect I)
(Aspect A) (Aspect B) (Aspect C) (Aspect D) (Aspect E) (Aspect F) (Aspect G) In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device of (Aspect H), the cleaning plate is the discharge A water repellent treatment is applied to the surface facing the surface.
According to this, as described in the first embodiment, it is possible to suppress remaining ink and dust after cleaning between the gaps.
(Aspect J)
(Aspect A) (Aspect B) (Aspect C) (Aspect D) (Aspect E) (Aspect F) (Aspect G) (Aspect H) In the droplet discharge device of (Aspect I), the cleaning plate is super Ultrasonic wave generation means such as the sound wave generation means 115 is provided.
According to this, as described in the ninth embodiment, it is possible to more reliably remove ink and dust attached to the ejection surface and the nozzle holes.
(Aspect K)
(Aspect A) (Aspect B) (Aspect C) (Aspect D) (Aspect E) (Aspect F) (Aspect G) (Aspect H) (Aspect I) or (Aspect j) The cleaning plate includes an adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting a gap with respect to the ejection surface.
According to this, as described in the first to ninth embodiments, the suction force by the suction means can be adjusted by adjusting the flow rate of the fluid flowing through the gap.
(Aspect L)
(Aspect A) (Aspect B) (Aspect C) (Aspect D) (Aspect E) (Aspect F) (Aspect G) (Aspect H) (Aspect I) (Aspect j) or (Aspect K) Liquid droplet ejection apparatus The cleaning apparatus includes an isolating means for isolating the ejection surface of the droplet ejection head from the outside.
According to this, as described in the first embodiment, since the droplet discharge head can be cleaned in the space isolated from the outside, the space in which the external printing process is performed is not soiled. .

1, 4: Inkjet head (droplet ejection head)
2, 5: Nozzle 3, 6: Nozzle plate 100: Cleaning tanks 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 110: Cleaning devices 11, 21, 31, 41, 51, 61, 71 81, 91, 111: Cleaning plates 12, 22, 32, 42, 52, 62, 72, 82, 92, 112: Suction holes 13, 14, 23, 24, 33, 34, 43, 44, 53, 54 63, 64, 73, 74, 83, 84, 93, 94, 113, 114: injection holes 115, 116: ultrasonic wave generating means

JP 2012-135918 A JP 2011-201308 A JP 2012-106503 A

Claims (12)

In a cleaning device for a droplet discharge device comprising a droplet discharge head in which a plurality of nozzles for discharging droplets are arranged,
A cleaning plate that forms a gap with the discharge surface of the droplet discharge head;
Delivery means for delivering fluid into the gap from at least a pair of delivery ports provided at positions facing each other;
A cleaning device for a droplet discharge device, comprising: suction means for sucking a fluid in the gap from at least one suction port provided in the cleaning plate. The cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 1,
The pair of delivery ports are disposed at positions facing each other on both sides in the short direction of the droplet discharge head. The cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 2,
The cleaning apparatus for a droplet discharge device, wherein the cleaning plate is capable of reciprocating in the longitudinal direction of the droplet discharge head. In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 2 or 3,
A cleaning device for a droplet discharge device, wherein the outlet is capable of reciprocating in the longitudinal direction of the droplet discharge head. In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 1, 2, 3, or 4,
At least one suction port is disposed at an intermediate position between the pair of delivery ports. In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5,
A cleaning device for a droplet discharge device, wherein the delivery directions of the fluid from the pair of delivery ports intersect each other. In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6,
The fluid delivery direction from the delivery port is directed to the ejection surface, and an extension line of the delivery direction intersects the ejection surface outside the outermost nozzle row arranged on the outermost side. Cleaning device for droplet discharge device. In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7,
The apparatus for cleaning a droplet discharge device, wherein the delivery port is formed integrally with the cleaning plate. In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8,
The cleaning apparatus for a droplet discharge device, wherein the cleaning plate is subjected to water repellency treatment on a surface facing the discharge surface. In the droplet discharge device according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9,
The cleaning apparatus for a droplet discharge device, wherein the cleaning plate includes an ultrasonic wave generation unit. In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10,
The cleaning apparatus for a droplet discharge device, wherein the cleaning plate includes an adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting a gap with respect to the discharge surface. In the cleaning device for a droplet discharge device according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11,
A cleaning device for a droplet discharge device, comprising: an isolation means for isolating the discharge surface of the droplet discharge head from the outside.

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