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EP0447521B1 - Ink circuit particularly intended to pressurizing a pigment ink for an ink jet printer - Google Patents

Ink circuit particularly intended to pressurizing a pigment ink for an ink jet printer Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0447521B1
EP0447521B1 EP90914741A EP90914741A EP0447521B1 EP 0447521 B1 EP0447521 B1 EP 0447521B1 EP 90914741 A EP90914741 A EP 90914741A EP 90914741 A EP90914741 A EP 90914741A EP 0447521 B1 EP0447521 B1 EP 0447521B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
ink
reservoir
recovery
circuit according
circuit
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP90914741A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0447521A1 (en
Inventor
Max Perrin
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Markem Imaje SAS
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Imaje SA
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/195—Ink jet characterised by ink handling for monitoring ink quality

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an ink circuit in particular intended for pressurizing a pigment ink for an ink jet printer.
  • the object of the invention is to overcome the drawbacks linked to the presence of pumps or compressed air tanks of the known art, while allowing the implementation of the viscosity measurement method described in French patent no. 2,553,341. It relates to a general ink circuit comprising a first pressurization circuit and a second vacuum circuit independent of the first, operating from means which are never in contact with the ink. In this circuit, means of agitating the ink make it possible to avoid any risk of sedimentation of pigments where they are to be feared.
  • the invention relates more precisely to an ink circuit according to claim 1.
  • a circuit according to the invention a fourth which is a function of permanent agitation of the ink in order to avoid the sedimentation of the pigments in the bottom of the tanks.
  • the pressurization of the ink to ensure the jet is carried out by means of an ink accumulator tank (6) which is put under air pressure.
  • the generation of compressed air is ensured through a first pressurization circuit by a first head (9) of a compressor (7).
  • the air passes through a first filter (8) associated with a silencer, then passes through a second filter, made of filter foams, located inside the first head (9) also called pressure head.
  • the air flow rate from this head is 1.6 m3 / hour at atmospheric pressure.
  • a calibrated valve (10) at a threshold value, for example 4.2 bars limits the maximum operating pressure in the circuit.
  • the air passing through the pipe (40) then passes through a regulator (11) capable of adjusting the pressure with precision before pressurizing the ink accumulator tank (6) which supplies the print head not shown because being part of known art.
  • An arrow (f1) shows diagrammatically the ink output from the accumulator (6) towards the umbilicus and its print head.
  • the pressure setpoint of the regulator (11) is adjusted by adjustment means (111) which can be the combination of a screw and a handwheel for example.
  • This pressure is controlled using a pressure gauge (12) mounted through a three-way connection (62) on the pressurization pipe (40).
  • the unused drops are recovered in a gutter not shown as being part of the print head, itself known per se, as has been said previously.
  • These recovered drops are brought back to a recovery tank (2) as shown by the arrow (f2), arranged on the recovery pipe (41).
  • the recovery tank (2) is placed under vacuum by means of a second vacuum circuit consisting of a second head (15) of the compressor (7) operating as a vacuum pump.
  • This vacuum head (15) is identical to the pressure head (9) and its flow / pressure characteristics are the same.
  • a safety valve (16) calibrated to a limit value of the tolerable vacuum in the recovery tank (2) and at the outlet of the head (15) a filter associated with a silencer ( 17). Depression is symbolized by the arrow (f3).
  • the means for pressurizing and vacuuming respectively constituted by the first circuit comprising the general pipe (40) and the second circuit comprising the pipe (42), are distinct from each other and connected to two heads (9) and (15) of a single compressor (7) whose operation ensures the pressurization of the accumulator tank (6) supplying the print head and the partial vacuum of the recovery tank (2), these two pipes (40) and (42) being, moreover, completely independent of the lines in which the ink circulates.
  • the ink is indeed highly volatile, so its viscosity must be constantly checked and corrected by adding either ink or solvent.
  • a solvent tank (20) and an ink tank (1) are provided, connected to each other, via a filter (50s) and (50e), and through a solenoid valve (18th ) and (18s), at the top of the recovery tank (2) through the pipes (51s) and (51e).
  • the two tanks of solvent (20) and ink (1) are at atmospheric pressure.
  • the ink tank (1) is connected to the compressed air line (40) (pressurization circuit) through two solenoid valves (24) and (25). It is also connected to the transfer tank (27) by the pipe (47) via the solenoid valve (24).
  • a viscometer (27) which is, for example, of the type described in French patent No. 2,353,441 filed by the Applicant. It is a tank in which the ink from the recovery tank (2) passes before being sent to the accumulator tank (6).
  • This viscometer (27) is connected by a line (44), via a solenoid valve (21), to the base of said recovery tank (2) and by a line (45) via a solenoid valve (23) to the base of the accumulator tank (6).
  • the ink tank (1), the recovery tank (2), and the viscometer (27) are equipped with level detection means (28e), (28a), (28). These are electrodes immersed in the tank at heights corresponding for the ink tank (1) to the minimum level (V) of ink, for the recovery tank with three levels, low (V1), medium ( V2) and high (V3), finally for the two-level viscometer (V4) and (V5).
  • the difference in height between (V4) and (V5) constitutes one of the parameters authorizing the measurement of the viscosity, as is now explained.
  • the level measurement means (28) attached to the viscometer (27) consist of three plunging electrodes, two of which are at the same low level (V4) and the third at a level (V5) higher than (V4).
  • the level measuring means (28e) attached to the ink tank (1) are constituted by two electrodes determining the level (V).
  • the level measuring means (28r) attached to the recovery tank (2) consist of four plunging electrodes determining three levels (V1), (V2), (V3).
  • the solenoid valves (21) and (22) being open, the pressure of the viscometer (27) is in equilibrium with that of the recovery tank (2), the ink flows into the line (44) through a calibrated leak ( 26) and passes into the viscometer (27).
  • the time taken for the level to pass from (V4) to (V5) is measured. If this time is greater than a set value, the viscosity of the ink is too high and an addition of solvent is carried out. If this time is less than or equal to this set value, the viscosity of the ink is low or good and nothing will be done. Natural evaporation of the solvent will increase it.
  • the solenoid valve (24) is then closed and the solenoid valves (21), (22) are again open for refilling the viscometer (27).
  • the solvent (20), ink (1) and recovery (2) tanks have a drain port (100).
  • all the ink contained in the accumulator tank (6) is returned to the recovery tank (2), so that the ink is stirred as will be explained later.
  • the solenoid valves (23) and (21) are open, and under the effect of the air pressure in the accumulator tank (6), the ink passes into the recovery tank (2).
  • the solenoid valve (23) is closed and the solenoid valve (24) open to also empty the viscometer (27) in the recovery tank (2). Indeed, the atmospheric pressure thus applied in the viscometer pushes the ink towards the recovery tank (2) which is under vacuum.
  • means are provided for continuously agitating the ink. Indeed, in order to maintain good homogeneity thereof, regardless of its duration of use, it is imperative to mix the ink constantly.
  • the ink is mixed in the main new ink tank (1) and in the recovery tank (2).
  • the means are identical in both cases. It is a magnetic bar (3) covered with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polypropylene, cooperating with two magnets (4) (visible in Figure 2) placed on a turntable (144) driven in rotation by a motor step by step (5). It is supplied as long as the printer remains connected to the electrical network. Its speed of rotation is optimized to guarantee a good homogeneity of the ink and a low evaporation of the solvent.
  • PTFE polytetrafluoroethylene
  • 144 turntable
  • the advantage of a stepper motor lies in its robustness and long-term performance in maintenance-free operation, as well as in its explosion-proof nature.
  • the turntable (144) consists of a metal plate on which are glued the two permanent magnets as shown in Figure 2. A particular shape shown in this figure has been chosen for the tanks. It is a frustoconical profile (P) which makes it possible to correctly position the bar (3) above the turntable (144).
  • the printer remains disconnected from the electrical network for several days, the sedimentation of the ink in the bottom of the tank is inevitable, and, when the machine is switched on, the speed of rotation of the motors (5) is greatly reduced to avoid the magnetic uncoupling of the rod / turntable assembly.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Quality & Reliability (AREA)
  • Ink Jet (AREA)
  • Inks, Pencil-Leads, Or Crayons (AREA)
  • Particle Formation And Scattering Control In Inkjet Printers (AREA)

Abstract

PCT No. PCT/FR90/00696 Sec. 371 Date Jul. 24, 1991 Sec. 102(e) Date Jul. 24, 1991 PCT Filed Sep. 28, 1990 PCT Pub. No. WO91/04862 PCT Pub. Date Apr. 18, 1991.An ink circuit particularly intended for pressurizing a pigment ink, for an ink jet printer, is disclosed. The main pressurization line (40) is connected to a first head (9) of a compressor (7), and the depressurization line (45) is connected to a second head (15) of the same compressor (7). Both pressurization and depressurization lines are totally independent from the ink circuits. Magnetic agitators means (3, 4) are provided at the base of the reservoirs (1 and 2) in order to avoid pigment settling. The ink circuit applies to the marking of media or supports, requiring an opaque white ink.

Description

L'invention concerne un circuit d'encre notamment destiné à la mise en pression d'une encre à pigments pour imprimante à jet d'encre.The invention relates to an ink circuit in particular intended for pressurizing a pigment ink for an ink jet printer.

On est amené, dans la technique de marquage, pour certaines applications, par exemple lorsque les supports ont une couleur foncée, d'utiliser des encres très chargées en pigments, telles que des particules d'oxyde de titane, qui ont pour effet de rendre l'encre opaque et blanche.It is necessary, in the marking technique, for certain applications, for example when the supports have a dark color, to use inks heavily loaded with pigments, such as particles of titanium oxide, which have the effect of rendering opaque, white ink.

L'utilisation d'une telle encre dans les machines classiques pose de nombreux problèmes. En effet, on sait que dans un dispositif d'impression par jet d'encre utilisant un jet continu de gouttes d'encre, celles-ci doivent être amenées sous pression à un ensemble appelé corps de modulation, possédant à son extrémité une buse de projection. Par ailleurs, les gouttes d'encre non utilisées pour l'impression doivent être recueillies et ramenées au réservoir de récupération pour circuler à nouveau dans le dispositif d'impression. Les qualités d'impression d'une imprimante de ce type sont étroitement liées à la vitesse d'éjection de l'encre par la buse. Cette vitesse peut être altérée par une variation de la pression en amont de l'orifice, ainsi que par une variation de la viscosité de l'encre qui peut être due à une perte par évaporation du solvant de l'encre qui est souvent très volatile.The use of such an ink in conventional machines poses many problems. In fact, it is known that in an ink jet printing device using a continuous jet of ink drops, these must be brought under pressure to an assembly called a modulation body, having at its end a nozzle for projection. Furthermore, the ink drops not used for printing must be collected and brought back to the recovery tank to circulate again in the printing device. The printing qualities of a printer of this type are closely linked to the speed of ink ejection from the nozzle. This speed can be altered by a variation of the pressure upstream of the orifice, as well as by a variation of the viscosity of the ink which can be due to a loss by evaporation of the solvent of the ink which is often very volatile .

En ce qui concerne les dispositifs de mise en pression de l'encre et de récupération des gouttes d'encre non utilisées, il est d'usage, dans un premier type de machine, de mettre en oeuvre des pompes. C'est le cas du circuit d'encre décrit dans le brevet français n° 2 553 341 déposé par la Demanderesse. Dans l'application aux encres chargées en pigments, l'inconvénient vient du fait que ces pigments altèrent rapidement les pompes, ce qui nuit à leur fiabilité. De plus, les pompes créent des variations cycliques de pression nuisibles à la qualité de l'impression.With regard to the devices for pressurizing the ink and for recovering unused ink drops, it is customary, in a first type of machine, to use pumps. This is the case of the ink circuit described in French patent No. 2,553,341 filed by the Applicant. In the application to inks loaded with pigments, the drawback comes from the fact that these pigments rapidly alter the pumps, which affects their reliability. In addition, the pumps create cyclic variations in pressure detrimental to the quality of the print.

Il existe des dispositifs mettant en oeuvre des réservoirs de gaz sous pression. Cette technique impose l'emploi de réservoirs tampons pour la récupération des gouttes d'encre dans la phase de transfert du réservoir de récupération vers le réservoir principal. C'est le cas par exemple du circuit d'encre décrit dans le brevet français n° 2.405.819. La multiplication de ces réservoirs ne se prête pas facilement à la circulation d'une encre à pigments, ces derniers ayant tendance à se déposer par gravité au fond des réservoirs. Enfin, la mise en oeuvre de réservoirs sous pression de gaz, en principe de l'air comprimé, nécessite également une deuxième source d'énergie pour les machines qui les emploient.There are devices using pressurized gas tanks. This technique requires the use of buffer tanks for the recovery of ink drops in the transfer phase from the recovery tank to the main tank. This is the case, for example, of the ink circuit described in French patent No. 2,405,819. The multiplication of these reservoirs does not lend itself easily to the circulation of an ink with pigments, the latter tending to settle by gravity at the bottom of the tanks. Finally, the implementation of gas pressure tanks, in principle of compressed air, also requires a second source of energy for the machines which employ them.

A ces problèmes s'ajoute, comme cela a été dit précédemment, celui de la viscosité de l'encre. Pour le résoudre, la Demanderesse a mis au point un viscosimètre décrit dans le brevet français n° 2 553 341 déjà cité. Le procédé mis en oeuvre consiste à mesurer le temps de remplissage d'un réservoir à partir d'un autre par écoulement, par gravité, de l'encre à travers une fuite calibrée.To these problems is added, as has been said previously, that of the viscosity of the ink. To resolve it, the Applicant has developed a viscometer described in French patent No. 2,553,341 already cited. The method used consists in measuring the filling time of one tank from another by flow, by gravity, of the ink through a calibrated leak.

L'invention a pour objet de pallier les inconvénients liés à la présence des pompes ou des réservoirs d'air comprimé de l'art connu, tout en autorisant la mise en oeuvre du procédé de mesure de la viscosité décrit dans le brevet français n° 2 553 341. Elle concerne un circuit général d'encre comportant un premier circuit de mise sous pression et un second circuit de mise en dépression indépendant du premier, fonctionnant à partir de moyens qui ne se trouvent jamais en contact avec l'encre. Dans ce circuit, des moyens d'agitation de l'encre permettent d'éviter tout risque de sédimentation de pigments là où ils sont à craindre.The object of the invention is to overcome the drawbacks linked to the presence of pumps or compressed air tanks of the known art, while allowing the implementation of the viscosity measurement method described in French patent no. 2,553,341. It relates to a general ink circuit comprising a first pressurization circuit and a second vacuum circuit independent of the first, operating from means which are never in contact with the ink. In this circuit, means of agitating the ink make it possible to avoid any risk of sedimentation of pigments where they are to be feared.

L'invention concerne plus précisément un circuit d'encre selon la revendication 1.The invention relates more precisely to an ink circuit according to claim 1.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à l'aide des explications qui vont suivre et des figures jointes parmi lesquelles:

  • la figure 1 est un schéma général illustrant la combinaison des moyens mis en oeuvre dans le circuit d'alimentation en encre conforme à l'invention;
  • la figure 2 est un schéma explicatif de l'un des éléments constitutifs du circuit de la figure 1.
The invention will be better understood with the aid of the explanations which follow and of the appended figures among which:
  • Figure 1 is a general diagram illustrating the combination of means used in the ink supply circuit according to the invention;
  • FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of one of the constituent elements of the circuit of FIG. 1.

Pour plus de clarté, les mêmes éléments portent les mêmes références dans toutes les figures.For the sake of clarity, the same elements are given the same references in all the figures.

Comme cela a été dit précédemment, l'invention concerne un circuit d'encre à pigments, adapté à l'alimentation d'une tête d'impression à jet d'encre, de telle sorte que tous les inconvénients liés à la présence de ces pigments dans l'encre, soient évités. L'architecture de ce circuit et la combinaison des moyens mis en oeuvre permettent en effet, pour cette application particulière, la réalisation des trois fonctions essentielles requises pour le bon fonctionnement d'une imprimante à jet d'encre, à savoir:

  • la mise en pression de l'encre pour assurer le débit du jet d'encre;
  • la récupération des gouttes non utilisées pour l'impression;
  • le maintien de la bonne qualité de l'encre à une viscosité optimale ainsi que le maintien du niveau de l'encre dans l'accumulateur.
As mentioned above, the invention relates to a pigment ink circuit, suitable for supplying an ink jet print head, so that all the drawbacks linked to the presence of these pigments in the ink, be avoided. The architecture of this circuit and the combination of the means used make it possible, for this particular application, to achieve the three essential functions required for the proper functioning of an inkjet printer, namely:
  • pressurizing the ink to ensure the flow of the ink jet;
  • recovery of drops not used for printing;
  • maintaining the good quality of the ink at an optimum viscosity as well as maintaining the level of the ink in the accumulator.

A ces fonctions s'ajoute dans le circuit conforme à l'invention, une quatrième qui est une fonction d'agitation permanente de l'encre dans le but d'éviter la sédimentation des pigments dans le fond des réservoirs.To these functions is added a circuit according to the invention, a fourth which is a function of permanent agitation of the ink in order to avoid the sedimentation of the pigments in the bottom of the tanks.

Comme le montre la figure 1, la mise en pression de l'encre pour assurer le jet est réalisée au moyen d'un réservoir accumulateur (6) d'encre qui est mis sous pression d'air. La génération de l'air comprimé est assurée à travers un premier circuit de mise en pression par une première tête (9) d'un compresseur (7). L'air passe au travers d'un premier filtre (8) associé à un silencieux, puis transite à travers un second filtre, fait de mousses filtrantes, situées à l'intérieur de la première tête (9) dite aussi tête de pression. Dans un exemple de réalisation non limitatif, le débit d'air de cette tète est de 1,6 m³/heure à la pression atmosphérique. A la sortie de la tête de pression (9), une soupape tarée (10) à une valeur de seuil, par exemple 4,2 bars, limite la pression maximale d'utilisation dans le circuit. L'air transitant dans la canalisation (40) passe ensuite dans un régulateur (11) capable d'ajuster la pression avec précision avant de mettre en pression le réservoir accumulateur d'encre (6) lequel alimente la tête d'impression non représentée car faisant partie de l'art connu.As shown in FIG. 1, the pressurization of the ink to ensure the jet is carried out by means of an ink accumulator tank (6) which is put under air pressure. The generation of compressed air is ensured through a first pressurization circuit by a first head (9) of a compressor (7). The air passes through a first filter (8) associated with a silencer, then passes through a second filter, made of filter foams, located inside the first head (9) also called pressure head. In a nonlimiting exemplary embodiment, the air flow rate from this head is 1.6 m³ / hour at atmospheric pressure. At the outlet of the pressure head (9), a calibrated valve (10) at a threshold value, for example 4.2 bars, limits the maximum operating pressure in the circuit. The air passing through the pipe (40) then passes through a regulator (11) capable of adjusting the pressure with precision before pressurizing the ink accumulator tank (6) which supplies the print head not shown because being part of known art.

Une flèche (f₁) schématise la sortie de l'encre de l'accumulateur (6) vers l'ombilic et sa tête d'impression.An arrow (f₁) shows diagrammatically the ink output from the accumulator (6) towards the umbilicus and its print head.

La consigne de pression du régulateur (11) est ajustée par des moyens de réglage (111) qui peuvent être la combinaison d'une vis et d'un volant par exemple. Cette pression est contrôlée à l'aide d'un manomètre (12) monté à travers un raccord trois voies (62) sur la canalisation de mise en pression (40).The pressure setpoint of the regulator (11) is adjusted by adjustment means (111) which can be the combination of a screw and a handwheel for example. This pressure is controlled using a pressure gauge (12) mounted through a three-way connection (62) on the pressurization pipe (40).

L'air sous pression entre dans le réservoir accumulateur (6) par sa partie supérieure. Ce dernier est constitué d'un cylindre dans lequel coulisse un flotteur (13) qui a deux fonctions:

  • la première est de réaliser une séparation entre l'air (a) sous pression et l'encre (e) afin de minimiser la migration de l'air dans l'encre;
  • la deuxième est de permettre la détection des niveaux dans le réservoir accumulateur (6) au moyen de deux détecteurs de proximité (14h) pour le niveau haut et (14b) pour le niveau bas, et d'un anneau magnétique contenu dans le flotteur.
The pressurized air enters the accumulator tank (6) through its upper part. The latter consists of a cylinder in which a float (13) slides which has two functions:
  • the first is to make a separation between the air (a) under pressure and the ink (e) in order to minimize the migration of air into the ink;
  • the second is to allow the detection of the levels in the accumulator tank (6) by means of two proximity detectors (14h) for the high level and (14b) for the low level, and a magnetic ring contained in the float.

Le réservoir accumulateur (6) doit avoir une contenance suffisamment grande pour que la quantité d'encre qu'il contient permette le rafraîchissement nécessaire de l'encre contenue dans les tuyaux de l'ombilic et dans la tête d'impression.The storage tank (6) must have a sufficiently large capacity so that the quantity of ink which it contains allows the necessary cooling of the ink contained in the tubes of the navel and in the print head.

Durant le fonctionnement de cette dernière, les gouttes inutilisées sont récupérées dans une gouttière non représentée car faisant partie de la tête d'impression, elle-même connue en soi, comme cela a été dit précédemment. Ces gouttes récupérées sont ramenées vers un réservoir de récupération (2) comme le montrent la flèche (f₂), disposée sur la canalisation de récupération (41). Pour obtenir ce résultat, le réservoir de récupération (2) est mis en dépression au moyen d'un second circuit de dépression constitué d'une deuxième tête (15) du compresseur (7) fonctionnant en pompe à vide. Cette tête de dépression (15) est identique à la tête de pression (9) et ses caractéristiques débit/pression sont les mêmes. On trouve sur la canalisation (42), une soupape de sécurité (16) tarée à une valeur limite de la dépression tolérable dans le réservoir de récupération (2) et à la sortie de la tête (15) un filtre associé à un silencieux (17). La dépression est symbolisée par la flèche (f₃).During the operation of the latter, the unused drops are recovered in a gutter not shown as being part of the print head, itself known per se, as has been said previously. These recovered drops are brought back to a recovery tank (2) as shown by the arrow (f₂), arranged on the recovery pipe (41). To obtain this result, the recovery tank (2) is placed under vacuum by means of a second vacuum circuit consisting of a second head (15) of the compressor (7) operating as a vacuum pump. This vacuum head (15) is identical to the pressure head (9) and its flow / pressure characteristics are the same. There is on the pipe (42), a safety valve (16) calibrated to a limit value of the tolerable vacuum in the recovery tank (2) and at the outlet of the head (15) a filter associated with a silencer ( 17). Depression is symbolized by the arrow (f₃).

Il convient donc de noter que les moyens de mise en pression et en dépression constitués respectivement du premier circuit comportant la canalisation générale (40) et le second circuit comportant la canalisation (42), sont distincts l'un de l'autre et reliés à deux têtes (9) et (15) d'un compresseur unique (7) dont le fonctionnement assure la mise sous pression du réservoir accumulateur (6) d'alimentation de la tête d'impression et la mise sous vide partiel du réservoir de récupération (2), ces deux canalisations (40) et (42) étant, de plus, totalement indépendantes des canalisations dans lesquelles circule l'encre.It should therefore be noted that the means for pressurizing and vacuuming respectively constituted by the first circuit comprising the general pipe (40) and the second circuit comprising the pipe (42), are distinct from each other and connected to two heads (9) and (15) of a single compressor (7) whose operation ensures the pressurization of the accumulator tank (6) supplying the print head and the partial vacuum of the recovery tank (2), these two pipes (40) and (42) being, moreover, completely independent of the lines in which the ink circulates.

Après avoir décrit la combinaison de deux circuits de pression (40) et de dépression (42) branchés sur deux têtes (9, 15) d'un même compresseur (7) conformément à l'invention, ainsi que le circuit de récupération (41) de l'encre, on décrit maintenant les moyens mis en oeuvre pour maintenir la qualité de l'encre et le niveau haut de celle-ci dans le réservoir accumulateur (6).Having described the combination of two pressure (40) and vacuum (42) circuits connected to two heads (9, 15) of the same compressor (7) according to the invention, as well as the recovery circuit (41 ) of the ink, we will now describe the means used to maintain the quality of the ink and the high level thereof in the accumulator tank (6).

L'encre est en effet fortement volatile, il faut donc en permanence contrôler sa viscosité et la corriger en ajoutant, soit de l'encre, soit du solvant. Pour ce faire, un réservoir de solvant (20) et un réservoir d'encre (1) sont prévus, reliés l'un et l'autre, via un filtre (50s) et (50e), et à travers une électrovanne (18e) et (18s), à la partie supérieure du réservoir de récupération (2) par les canalisations (51s) et (51e). Les deux réservoirs de solvant (20) et d'encre (1) sont à la pression atmosphérique. Le réservoir d'encre (1) est relié à la canalisation (40) d'air comprimé (circuit de mise en pression) à travers deux électrovannes (24) et (25). Il est également relié au réservoir de transfert (27) par la canalisation (47) via l'électrovanne (24). La mesure de cette viscosité est réalisée au moyen d'un viscosimètre (27) qui est, par exemple, du type de celui qui est décrit dans le brevet français n° 2.353.441 déposé par la Demanderesse. Il s'agit d'un réservoir dans lequel transite l'encre provenant du réservoir de récupération (2) avant d'être envoyée dans le réservoir accumulateur (6). Ce viscosimètre (27) est relié par une canalisation (44), via une électrovanne (21), à la base dudit réservoir de récupération (2) et par une canalisation (45) via une électrovanne (23) à la base du réservoir accumulateur (6). La pression règnant dans le viscosimètre (27) dépend de la pression présente dans les deux canalisations (46) et (43) reliées respectivement, via une électrovanne (22), au sommet du réservoir de récupération (2) et à la canalisation (43) entre les deux vannes (24) et (25).The ink is indeed highly volatile, so its viscosity must be constantly checked and corrected by adding either ink or solvent. To do this, a solvent tank (20) and an ink tank (1) are provided, connected to each other, via a filter (50s) and (50e), and through a solenoid valve (18th ) and (18s), at the top of the recovery tank (2) through the pipes (51s) and (51e). The two tanks of solvent (20) and ink (1) are at atmospheric pressure. The ink tank (1) is connected to the compressed air line (40) (pressurization circuit) through two solenoid valves (24) and (25). It is also connected to the transfer tank (27) by the pipe (47) via the solenoid valve (24). The measurement of this viscosity is carried out using a viscometer (27) which is, for example, of the type described in French patent No. 2,353,441 filed by the Applicant. It is a tank in which the ink from the recovery tank (2) passes before being sent to the accumulator tank (6). This viscometer (27) is connected by a line (44), via a solenoid valve (21), to the base of said recovery tank (2) and by a line (45) via a solenoid valve (23) to the base of the accumulator tank (6). The pressure prevailing in the viscometer (27) depends on the pressure present in the two pipes (46) and (43) connected respectively, via a solenoid valve (22), to the top of the recovery tank (2) and to the pipe (43 ) between the two valves (24) and (25).

Le réservoir d'encre (1), celui de récupération (2), et le viscosimètre (27) sont équipés de moyens de détection de niveau (28e), (28a), (28). Il s'agit d'électrodes plongeant dans le réservoir à des hauteurs correspondant pour le réservoir d'encre (1) au niveau minimal (V) d'encre, pour le réservoir de récupération à trois niveaux, bas (V₁), moyen (V₂) et haut (V₃), enfin pour le viscosimètre à deux niveaux (V₄) et (V₅). La différence de hauteur entre (V₄) et (V₅) constitue un des paramètres autorisant la mesure de la viscosité, comme cela est maintenant expliqué.The ink tank (1), the recovery tank (2), and the viscometer (27) are equipped with level detection means (28e), (28a), (28). These are electrodes immersed in the tank at heights corresponding for the ink tank (1) to the minimum level (V) of ink, for the recovery tank with three levels, low (V₁), medium ( V₂) and high (V₃), finally for the two-level viscometer (V₄) and (V₅). The difference in height between (V₄) and (V₅) constitutes one of the parameters authorizing the measurement of the viscosity, as is now explained.

Les moyens de mesure de niveau (28) attachés au viscosimètre (27) sont constitués par trois électrodes plongeantes dont deux sont au même niveau bas (V₄) et la troisième à un niveau (V₅) supérieur à (V₄).The level measurement means (28) attached to the viscometer (27) consist of three plunging electrodes, two of which are at the same low level (V₄) and the third at a level (V₅) higher than (V₄).

Les moyens de mesure de niveau (28e) attachés au réservoir d'encre (1) sont constitués par deux électrodes déterminant le niveau (V).The level measuring means (28e) attached to the ink tank (1) are constituted by two electrodes determining the level (V).

Les moyens de mesure de niveau (28r) attachés au réservoir de récupération (2) sont constitués par quatre électrodes plongeantes déterminant trois niveaux (V₁), (V₂), (V₃).The level measuring means (28r) attached to the recovery tank (2) consist of four plunging electrodes determining three levels (V₁), (V₂), (V₃).

Les électrovannes (21) et (22) étant ouvertes, la pression du viscosimètre (27) est en équilibre avec celle du réservoir de récupération (2), l'encre s'écoule dans la canalisation (44) à travers une fuite calibrée (26) et passe dans le viscosimètre (27). Le temps que met le niveau à passer de (V₄) à (V₅) est mesuré. Si ce temps est supérieur à une valeur de consigne, la viscosité de l'encre est trop élevée et un ajout de solvant est effectué. Si ce temps est inférieur ou égal à cette valeur de consigne, la viscosité de l'encre est faible ou bonne et rien ne sera fait. L'évaporation naturelle du solvant fera augmenter celle-ci. Il y a donc un asservissement entre les moyens de détection (28), les électrovannes (21) et (22) ainsi que l'électrovanne (18s) qui permet l'ajout de solvant. Lorsque cette dernière est passante, le solvant est aspiré par la canalisation (51s) vers le réservoir de récupération (2) qui est en dépression. Il en est de même si de l'encre neuve doit être introduite dans le réservoir de récupération (2). L'électrovanne (18e) est mise en position passante et l'encre se trouve être aspirée à travers la canalisation (51e) dans le réservoir de récupération (2) qui est en dépression.The solenoid valves (21) and (22) being open, the pressure of the viscometer (27) is in equilibrium with that of the recovery tank (2), the ink flows into the line (44) through a calibrated leak ( 26) and passes into the viscometer (27). The time taken for the level to pass from (V₄) to (V₅) is measured. If this time is greater than a set value, the viscosity of the ink is too high and an addition of solvent is carried out. If this time is less than or equal to this set value, the viscosity of the ink is low or good and nothing will be done. Natural evaporation of the solvent will increase it. There is therefore a control between the detection means (28), the solenoid valves (21) and (22) as well as the solenoid valve (18s) which allows the addition of solvent. When the latter is passing, the solvent is sucked through the pipe (51s) to the tank recovery (2) which is in depression. The same applies if new ink is to be introduced into the recovery tank (2). The solenoid valve (18e) is put in the on position and the ink is sucked through the line (51e) in the recovery tank (2) which is under vacuum.

Lorsque le niveau haut (V₅) du viscosimètre (27) est détecté, les électrovannes (23) et (25) sont ouvertes et les électrovannes (21), (24), (22) sont fermées. Le viscosimètre (27) se trouve donc relié à l'air comprimé par la canalisation (43). Etant sous pression, l'encre qu'il contient est poussée vers le réservoir accumulateur (6) à travers l'électrovanne (23), une fuite (70) et un filtre (71). Le volume d'air correspondant au volume d'encre entrant dans ce dernier s'échappe par le régulateur de pression (11). Un volume d'encre tampon (volume sous le niveau bas (V₄) du viscosimètre) reste dans celui-ci, de manière à garantir qu'à aucun moment, de l'air risque d'être envoyé dans le réservoir accumulateur (6), ceci pour laisser aux électrovannes (23) et (25) le temps de se fermer après la détection du niveau bas du viscosimètre (27).When the high level (V₅) of the viscometer (27) is detected, the solenoid valves (23) and (25) are open and the solenoid valves (21), (24), (22) are closed. The viscometer (27) is therefore connected to the compressed air by the pipe (43). Being under pressure, the ink it contains is pushed towards the accumulator tank (6) through the solenoid valve (23), a leak (70) and a filter (71). The volume of air corresponding to the volume of ink entering the latter escapes through the pressure regulator (11). A volume of buffer ink (volume below the low level (V₄) of the viscometer) remains therein, so as to guarantee that at no time air may be sent into the accumulator tank (6) , this to allow the solenoid valves (23) and (25) time to close after detection of the low level of the viscometer (27).

Après un transfert d'encre du viscosimètre (27) vers le réservoir accumulateur (6), une bulle d'air sous pression est emprisonnée dans le viscosimètre (27). Cette bulle viendrait se détendre brutalement dans le réservoir de récupération (2) si les électrovannes (21) et (22) étaient réouvertes, entraînant ainsi une chute instantanée de la dépression dans le réservoir de récupération (2), et de ce fait, perturberait la récupération des gouttes non utilisées provenant de la gouttière. Donc, après un transfert, l'électrovanne (24) est ouverte quelques secondes, les autres électrovannes (21), (22), (23), (25) étant fermées pour détendre la bulle d'air dans le réservoir principal (1) d'encre neuve qui, lui, se trouve à la pression atmosphérique.After an ink transfer from the viscometer (27) to the accumulator tank (6), a bubble of pressurized air is trapped in the viscometer (27). This bubble would suddenly relax in the recovery tank (2) if the solenoid valves (21) and (22) were reopened, thus causing an instantaneous drop in the vacuum in the recovery tank (2), and therefore would disturb recovery of unused drops from the gutter. So, after a transfer, the solenoid valve (24) is open for a few seconds, the other solenoid valves (21), (22), (23), (25) being closed to relax the air bubble in the main tank (1 ) new ink which is at atmospheric pressure.

L'électrovanne (24) est alors fermée et les électrovannes (21), (22) sont à nouveau ouvertes pour un nouveau remplissage du viscosimètre (27).The solenoid valve (24) is then closed and the solenoid valves (21), (22) are again open for refilling the viscometer (27).

Les réservoirs de solvant (20), d'encre (1) et de récupération (2) comportent un orifice de vidange (100). A l'arrêt de l'imprimante, toute l'encre contenue dans le réservoir accumulateur (6) est ramenée dans le réservoir de récupération (2), ceci afin que l'encre soit brassée comme cela sera expliqué plus loin. Pour cela, les électrovannes (23) et (21) sont ouvertes, et sous l'effet de la pression d'air dans le réservoir accumulateur (6), l'encre passe dans le réservoir récupération (2). Lorsque le niveau bas du réservoir accumulateur (2) est détecté, l'électrovanne (23) est fermée et l'électrovanne (24) ouverte pour vider également le viscosimètre (27) dans le réservoir de récupération (2). En effet, la pression atmosphérique ainsi appliquée dans le viscosimètre pousse l'encre vers le réservoir de récupération (2) qui est en dépression. Lorsque le niveau bas du viscosimètre (27) est détecté, le compresseur est arrêté et les électrovannes (25) et (24) sont ouvertes pour détendre l'air dans le circuit d'encre afin que ce dernier ne reste pas sous pression. L'imprimante s' arrête alors. A la mise en marche de l'imprimante, le compresseur (7) ne pouvant pas démarrer en charge, les électrovannes (24) et (25) sont ouvertes pendant quelques secondes, ceci pour mettre la tête de pression (9) du compresseur (7) à la pression atmosphérique.The solvent (20), ink (1) and recovery (2) tanks have a drain port (100). When the printer stops, all the ink contained in the accumulator tank (6) is returned to the recovery tank (2), so that the ink is stirred as will be explained later. For this, the solenoid valves (23) and (21) are open, and under the effect of the air pressure in the accumulator tank (6), the ink passes into the recovery tank (2). When the low level of the storage tank (2) is detected, the solenoid valve (23) is closed and the solenoid valve (24) open to also empty the viscometer (27) in the recovery tank (2). Indeed, the atmospheric pressure thus applied in the viscometer pushes the ink towards the recovery tank (2) which is under vacuum. When the low level of the viscometer (27) is detected, the compressor is stopped and the solenoid valves (25) and (24) are open to relax the air in the ink circuit so that the latter does not remain under pressure. The printer then stops. When the printer is switched on, the compressor (7) cannot start under load, the solenoid valves (24) and (25) are open for a few seconds, this to put the pressure head (9) of the compressor ( 7) at atmospheric pressure.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, des moyens sont prévus pour agiter en permanence l'encre. En effet, afin de conserver à celle-ci une bonne homogénéité, et ceci quelque soit sa durée d'utilisation, il est impératif de mélanger l'encre en permanence. L'encre est brassée dans le réservoir principal d'encre neuve (1) et dans le réservoir de récupération (2). Les moyens sont identiques dans les deux cas. Il s'agit d'un barreau magnétique (3) recouvert de polytétrafluoréthylène (PTFE) ou de polypropylène, coopérant avec deux aimants (4) (visibles sur la figure 2) placés sur un plateau tournant (144) entraîné en rotation par un moteur pas à pas (5). Celui-ci est alimenté tant que l'imprimante reste connectée au réseau électrique. Sa vitesse de rotation est optimisée pour garantir une bonne homogénéité de l'encre et une faible évaporation du solvant. L'avantage d'un moteur pas à pas réside dans sa robustesse et ses performances de longue durée de fonctionnement sans entretien, ainsi que dans son caractère anti-déflagrant. Le plateau tournant (144) est constitué d'une plaque métallique sur laquelle sont collés les deux aimants permanents comme indiqué dans la figure 2. Une forme particulière représentée sur cette figure a été choisie pour les réservoirs. C'est un profil (P) tronconique qui permet de positionner correctement le barreau (3) au-dessus du plateau tournant (144).According to another characteristic of the invention, means are provided for continuously agitating the ink. Indeed, in order to maintain good homogeneity thereof, regardless of its duration of use, it is imperative to mix the ink constantly. The ink is mixed in the main new ink tank (1) and in the recovery tank (2). The means are identical in both cases. It is a magnetic bar (3) covered with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polypropylene, cooperating with two magnets (4) (visible in Figure 2) placed on a turntable (144) driven in rotation by a motor step by step (5). It is supplied as long as the printer remains connected to the electrical network. Its speed of rotation is optimized to guarantee a good homogeneity of the ink and a low evaporation of the solvent. The advantage of a stepper motor lies in its robustness and long-term performance in maintenance-free operation, as well as in its explosion-proof nature. The turntable (144) consists of a metal plate on which are glued the two permanent magnets as shown in Figure 2. A particular shape shown in this figure has been chosen for the tanks. It is a frustoconical profile (P) which makes it possible to correctly position the bar (3) above the turntable (144).

Si l'imprimante reste plusieurs jours déconnectée du réseau électrique, la sédimentation de l'encre dans le fond du réservoir est inévitable, et, à la mise sous tension de la machine, la vitesse de rotation des moteurs (5) est fortement diminuée pour éviter le désaccouplement magnétique de l'ensemble barreau/plateau tournant.If the printer remains disconnected from the electrical network for several days, the sedimentation of the ink in the bottom of the tank is inevitable, and, when the machine is switched on, the speed of rotation of the motors (5) is greatly reduced to avoid the magnetic uncoupling of the rod / turntable assembly.

Lorsque l'imprimante est en position veille, toute l'encre du circuit est stockée dans les réservoirs (1) et (2) uniquement.When the printer is in the standby position, all the ink in the circuit is stored in the reservoirs (1) and (2) only.

Claims (14)

  1. Ink circuit for a continuous ink jet printing device, particularly suitable for using an ink with a high pigment content for making it opaque and white, said circuit comprising on the one hand means for pressurizing an ink storing reservoir (6) supplying the printing head and on the other hand means for depressurizing an ink drop recovery reservoir (2) for the ink not used during the marking operation, a viscosimeter (27) having viscosity measuring means (28), reserve reservoirs for ink (1) and solvent (20) connected to the recovery reservoir (2) for ensuring additions of ink and solvent as a function of the ink viscosity variations, characterized in that said viscosimeter (27) is connected by a first ink circuit (45) to the storage reservoir (6) via a first electrovalve (23) and by a second ink circuit (44) to the bottom of the recovery reservoir (2) via a second electrovalve (21), the viscosimeter also being connected to a first pressurizing air circuit (40) via a branch circuit (43) and a third electrovalve (25) and connected to the recovery reservoir (2) by a second air circuit (46) via a fourth electrovalve (22) for balancing the pressure between the recovery reservoir (2) and the viscosimeter (27), the viscosimeter fulfilling the double function of measuring the viscosity and ink transfer reservoir.
  2. Circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressurizing and depressurizing means respectively have the first air circuit (40) and a duct (42), respectively connected to two heads (9 and 15) of a single compressor (7), whose operation ensures the pressurizing of the storage reservoir (6) for supplying the printing head and the placing under a partial vacuum of the recovery reservoir (2), the first air circuit (40) and the duct (42) also being completely independent of the ducts in which the ink circulates.
  3. Ink circuit according to one of the claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the first pressurizing, air circuit (40) has a pressure regulator (11) and means (12) for measuring said pressure.
  4. Ink circuit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a branch (47) links, via a fifth electrovalve (24), the top of the viscosimeter (27) serving as a transfer reservoir to the top of the ink reservoir (1).
  5. Ink circuit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has supplementary ducts ensuring the circulation of ink between the ink reserve reservoir (1) and the ink drop recovery reservoir (2) via a sixth electrovalve (18e) and a first supplementary duct (51e), the circulation of ink between the recovery means and the top of the recovery reservoir (2) via a second supplementary duct (41), the circulation of ink between the recovery reservoir (2) and the transfer reservoir (27) via a third supplementary duct (44), a calibrated opening (26), and the second electrovalve (21), and the circulation of ink between said viscosimeter (27) serving as a transfer reservoir and the storage reservoir (6) via the first electrovalve (23) and a fourth supylementary duct (45).
  6. Ink circuit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the solvent reserve reservoir (20) is placed under atmospheric pressure and is connected to the recovery reservoir (2) by a solvent transfer duct (51s), via a seventh electrovalve (18s).
  7. Ink circuit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has in each of the storage (6), recovery (2) and ink reserve (1) reservoirs and in the viscosimeter (27), means for measuring the level of the ink (13, 28a, 28e,28).
  8. Ink circuit according to claim 7, characterized in that the level measuring means (28) attached to the viscosimeter (27) are constituted by three immersing electrodes, whereof two are at the same low level (V₄) and the third at a level (V₅) above (V₄).
  9. Ink circuit according to claim 7, characterized in that the level measuring means (28e) attached to the ink reserve reservoir (1) are constituted by two electrodes determining the level (V).
  10. Ink circuit according to claim 7, characterized in that the level measuring means (28r) attached to the recovery reservoir (2) are constituted by four immersing electrodes determining three levels (V₁), (V₂), (V₃).
  11. Ink circuit according to claim 7, characterized in that the level measuring means attached to the storage reservoir (6) are constituted by a float (13) able to fulfil the level detection function by a proximity sensor and the separation function between the air (a) and the ink (e).
  12. Ink circuit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ink reserve (1) and recovery (2) reservoirs are equipped with means able to stir the ink within said reservoirs.
  13. Ink circuit according to claim 12, characterized in that said stirring means are constituted by a bar magnet (3) cooperating with magnets (4) placed on a rotary plate (144) rotated by a stepping motor (5).
  14. Ink circuit according to claim 13, characterized in that the recovery reservoir (2) is truncated cone-shaped in order to ensure a better centring of the bar magnet (3).
EP90914741A 1989-10-02 1990-09-28 Ink circuit particularly intended to pressurizing a pigment ink for an ink jet printer Expired - Lifetime EP0447521B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8913060 1989-10-02
FR8913060A FR2652540B1 (en) 1989-10-02 1989-10-02 INK CIRCUIT, IN PARTICULAR FOR PRESSURIZING A PIGMENT INK FOR AN INK JET PRINTER.
PCT/FR1990/000696 WO1991004862A1 (en) 1989-10-02 1990-09-28 Ink circuit particularly intended to pressurizing a pigment ink for an ink jet printer

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EP0447521A1 EP0447521A1 (en) 1991-09-25
EP0447521B1 true EP0447521B1 (en) 1996-05-29

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EP (1) EP0447521B1 (en)
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DK0447521T3 (en) 1996-10-07
JPH04501987A (en) 1992-04-09
DE69027200D1 (en) 1996-07-04
ATE138608T1 (en) 1996-06-15
US5451987A (en) 1995-09-19
AU635784B2 (en) 1993-04-01
CA2026656A1 (en) 1991-04-03
AU6515090A (en) 1991-04-28
KR0183016B1 (en) 1999-05-15
EP0447521A1 (en) 1991-09-25
WO1991004862A1 (en) 1991-04-18
ES2089032T3 (en) 1996-10-01
KR920700924A (en) 1992-08-10
FR2652540B1 (en) 1995-06-02
DE69027200T2 (en) 1996-12-19
CA2026656C (en) 2002-02-12
FR2652540A1 (en) 1991-04-05

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