JP2002248751A - Print controller, its printing method, printer, program, and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enhance the quality by sustaining print processing without interrupting print processing operation even if the volume of stored image data is deficient. SOLUTION: A CPU 43 stores raster bit image data transmitted through radio communication in an input image buffer 45a. When a decision is made that reception of raster bit image data for 1 pass using first through thirteenth nozzles NZ1-NZ13 for the input image buffer 45a is too late for next print operation, the CPU 43 transmits to that effect. The CPU 43 receives raster bit image data for 1 pass using first through seventh nozzles NZ1-NZ7 out of all nozzles NZ1-NZ13 and controls a print engine 42 to use first through seventh nozzles NZ1-NZ7 in printing.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a printing control device, a printing method of the printing control device, a printing device, a program, and a recording medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, the connection between OA devices has been simplified by a wireless LAN, IrDA, or the like, that is, wireless communication has been advanced. For example, computer (PC)
And the printer are connected by infrared communication, and the image data (raster bit image data) generated by the computer (personal computer) is transmitted to the printer by infrared communication. Then, the printer receives the image data transmitted by the infrared communication and prints it on a recording sheet based on the image data. That is, a cable-less connection between the personal computer and the printer has been achieved.

In this wireless LAN, IrDA, etc.,
The signal strength between the personal computer and the printer may sometimes decrease depending on the distance, the shield, and the like. Therefore, if the signal strength between the PC and the printer fluctuates,
The data transfer speed is mutually changed in response to the fluctuation so that the data can be obtained reliably. In addition, reception of image data often fails due to obstacles due to infrared communication. In this case, the fact that the data reception has failed is transmitted from the printer to the personal computer, and the personal computer transmits image data to the printer again.

[0004]

As described above, the printer receives the image data transmitted from the personal computer and sequentially prints it on recording paper using the received image data. Therefore, when the data transfer speed to the printer fluctuates or the image data is transmitted again as described above, the printer fluctuates the reception amount of the image data stored in the input image buffer and hinders the printing operation. . In other words, if the storage amount of the image data stored in the input image buffer is slower than the print processing amount for printing using the image data, the image data is insufficient and no further print operation can be performed, and the temporary print processing operation is performed. Need to stop. As described above, if the print processing operation is stopped due to an insufficient amount of image data at each time, color unevenness occurs particularly in an ink jet type serial printer, leading to a deterioration in quality.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a method for printing without stopping a print processing operation even if the amount of stored image data fluctuates and the amount of image data becomes insufficient. An object of the present invention is to provide a print control device, a print method of the print control device, a printing device, a program, and a recording medium that can continue processing and improve quality.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a recording head having a large number of ejection nozzles in a sub-scanning direction is moved at a constant speed in a main scanning direction, and each ejection nozzle is driven to drive ink droplets. And a printer engine for discharging the image information and storing the image data obtained by developing the image information in the first storage means, using the respective discharge nozzles from the image data stored in the first storage means. Print data generating means for extracting and outputting one pass of image data to be used for a printing operation in the scanning direction, and storing one pass of image data output from the print data generating means in the second storage means; Print control means for driving a printer engine based on the obtained one-pass image data to print an image on a print medium. The print data generation unit changes the number of nozzles used for a printing operation based on the amount of image data for one pass stored in the second storage unit, and uses the changed number of nozzles. The gist of the present invention is to provide a change unit for extracting and outputting one pass of image data for use in a printing operation in the scanning direction.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the printing control apparatus according to the first aspect, the printing control means performs printing in one scanning direction using each ejection nozzle stored in the second storage means. A print processing status calculating means for calculating a storage amount of the image data for one pass to be used for the operation and outputting the storage data indicating whether or not the storage amount reaches a predetermined storage amount to the change means as the print processing status; The number of nozzles used in the printing operation is reduced based on the printing processing status that has not reached the predetermined storage amount, and the number of nozzles used for one pass for one-scan printing operation using the reduced number of nozzles is reduced. The gist is that the image data is extracted from the first storage means and output.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the print control apparatus according to the second aspect, the print data generating means and the print control means exchange data via wireless communication means, and perform the change. The one-pass image data to be used for the printing operation in one scanning direction extracted from the first storage means by the means is stored in the second storage means via the wireless communication means, and the print processing status calculation means The point is that the print processing status from is output to the change unit via the wireless communication unit.

The invention according to claim 4 is the invention according to claim 2 or 3.
In the print control device described in the above, the predetermined storage amount in the image data for one pass provided for the printing operation in one scanning direction stored in the second storage means is the one in the one scanning direction using all the nozzles. This is a storage amount for determining whether the image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation is stored in the second storage unit before the printing operation is started based on the image data for one pass. That is the gist.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the print control apparatus according to the first aspect, the print data creating means includes:
Using the respective ejection nozzles stored in the second storage means, the storage amount of the image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation in one scanning direction is calculated, and the storage data for determining whether the storage amount reaches a predetermined storage amount is printed. A print processing status calculation unit that outputs the processing status to the change unit, wherein the change unit reduces the number of nozzles used for a printing operation based on a print processing status that has not reached a predetermined storage amount, and The gist is that image data for one pass to be used for a printing operation in one scanning direction is extracted from the first storage means and output using the reduced number of nozzles.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the print control apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the print data generating means and the print control means exchange data through wireless communication means, and The gist is that the image data for one pass, which is extracted from the first storage means by the means and is used for a printing operation in one scanning direction, is stored in the second storage means via the wireless communication means. .

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the print control apparatus according to the fifth or sixth aspect, image data for one pass for one-scan printing operation stored in the second storage means. The predetermined storage amount in the above-described method is such that the image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation in one scanning direction using all the nozzles is obtained before the printing operation is started based on the image data for one pass. The gist is that the amount is a storage amount for determining whether the data is stored in the storage means.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printer engine which moves a recording head having a plurality of ejection nozzles in a sub-scanning direction at a constant speed in a main scanning direction and drives each of the ejection nozzles to eject ink droplets. And storing the image data obtained by developing the image information in a first storage means, and performing a printing operation in one scanning direction using each of the ejection nozzles from the image image data stored in the first storage means. Print data generating means for extracting and outputting one pass of image data to be provided to the printer, and storing the data for one pass output from the print data generating means in the second storage means; A print control unit that drives a printer engine based on the image data to print an image on a print medium. That it has to adjust the print processing amount to be printed on the print medium in accordance with the calculated the variation of the variation of the accumulated amount of image data for one pass, which is stored in the second storage means as its gist.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the printing method of the print control apparatus according to the eighth aspect, the number of nozzles used in a printing operation is changed according to a change in the amount of accumulated image data for one pass. The gist of the present invention is to extract and output one pass of image data to be used for a printing operation in one scanning direction using the changed number of nozzles.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing method of the print control device according to the eighth aspect, when the storage amount of the image data is reduced to a predetermined amount, a printing process for printing on the print medium is performed. The point is to reduce the amount.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the printing method of the print control device according to the tenth aspect, when the storage amount of the image data is reduced to a predetermined amount, the number of nozzles used for a printing operation is reduced. The gist of the present invention is to extract and output one pass of image data to be used for a printing operation in one scanning direction using the reduced number of nozzles.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printer engine which moves a recording head having a large number of ejection nozzles in the sub-scanning direction at a constant speed in the main scanning direction and drives each ejection nozzle to eject ink droplets. Storing image data for one pass for performing a printing operation in one scanning direction using the discharge nozzles in a storage means, and driving the printer engine based on the stored one-pass image data to print a print medium. And a print control unit for printing an image on the print unit, wherein the print control unit outputs a print processing status at that time based on an accumulation amount of image data for one pass stored in the storage unit. The gist is that a situation calculation means is provided.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus according to the twelfth aspect, the print data generating means includes a wireless communication means, and the image data for one pass is received via the wireless means. The gist is to be stored in the storage means.

According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the image data obtained by developing the image information is stored in the first storage means, and the image data is stored in the first storage means. A function of extracting image data for one pass for performing a printing operation in one scanning direction using a large number of discharge nozzles for discharging droplets and storing the image data in a second storage unit, and a function of storing the image data in the second storage unit; A function of determining the print processing status based on the amount of accumulated image data for one pass, and changing the number of nozzles used for a printing operation based on the print processing status, and using the changed number of nozzles. A program for realizing a function of extracting image data for one pass to be used for a printing operation in a scanning direction from image image data stored in the first storage unit and outputting the extracted image data to the storage unit And the gist thereof.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, image data obtained by developing image information into an image is stored in a first storage means, and ink droplets are removed from the image data stored in the first storage means. A program for extracting image data for one pass for performing a printing operation in one scanning direction using a large number of ejection nozzles for ejection and storing the image data in a second storage unit, and a program stored in the second storage unit. A program for judging the print processing status based on the accumulated amount of image data for the pass, and changing the number of nozzles used for the printing operation based on the print processing status, and using the changed number of nozzles in one scanning direction And a program for extracting image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation from the image data stored in the first storage unit and outputting the extracted image data to the storage unit. The recording medium and its gist.

(Operation) According to the first aspect of the present invention,
The number of nozzles used in the printing operation is changed based on the accumulated amount of the image data for one pass stored in the second storage means, and the changed number of nozzles is used by the changing means provided in the print data generating means. The image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation in one scanning direction is extracted. As a result, even if the accumulated amount of image data fluctuates and decreases, the number of nozzles used for the printing operation is reduced, and the image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation in one scanning direction using the reduced number of nozzles is obtained. It is possible to reduce the possibility that the printing operation is stopped because the extracted printing operation is performed.

According to the second and fourth aspects of the present invention, the changing means changes the number of nozzles used for the printing operation based on the print processing status from the print processing status calculation means provided in the print control means. Using the changed number of nozzles, image data for one pass to be used for a printing operation in one scanning direction is extracted. As a result, even if the accumulated amount of image data fluctuates and decreases, the number of nozzles used for the printing operation is reduced, and the image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation in one scanning direction using the reduced number of nozzles is obtained. It is possible to reduce the possibility that the printing operation is stopped because the extracted printing operation is performed.

According to the invention of claim 3, according to claim 2,
In the print control device described in (1), data is transmitted and received between the print data generation unit and the print control unit via a wireless communication unit.

According to the fifth and seventh aspects of the present invention, the changing means changes the number of nozzles used for the printing operation based on the print processing status from the print processing status calculating means provided in the print data creating means. Using the changed number of nozzles, image data for one pass to be used for a printing operation in one scanning direction is extracted. As a result, even if the accumulated amount of image data fluctuates and decreases, the number of nozzles used for the printing operation is reduced, and the image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation in one scanning direction using the reduced number of nozzles is obtained. It is possible to reduce the possibility that the printing operation is stopped because the extracted printing operation is performed.

According to the invention described in claim 6, according to claim 5,
In the print control device described in (1), data is transmitted and received between the print data generation unit and the print control unit via a wireless communication unit.

According to the present invention, a change in the storage amount of image data for one pass stored in the second storage means is calculated, and printing is performed on the print medium in accordance with the change. The print throughput is adjusted. As a result, even if the accumulated amount of image data fluctuates and decreases, the number of nozzles used in the printing operation is reduced, and the number of nozzles using the reduced number of nozzles is reduced.
Since the image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation in the scanning direction is extracted and the printing operation is performed, it is less likely that the printing operation is stopped.

According to the twelfth and thirteenth aspects of the present invention, the print processing status calculation means provided in the print control means performs printing at that time based on the accumulated amount of image data for one pass stored in the storage means. Output the processing status.

According to the thirteenth aspect, the image data for one pass is received via the wireless communication means and stored in the storage means.

According to the fourteenth and fifteenth aspects of the present invention, the number of nozzles used in the printing operation is changed based on the printing processing status, and the printing operation in one scanning direction using the changed number of nozzles is performed. Image data for one pass to be provided is extracted. As a result, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the printing operation stops even if the amount of accumulated image data fluctuates and decreases.

[0030]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS One embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 1 shows an ink jet recording and recording apparatus 10.
1 is a system configuration diagram for explaining the system configuration of FIG. In FIG. 1, an inkjet recording apparatus 10 as a print control apparatus includes a computer 11 as an external device and an inkjet printer (hereinafter simply referred to as a printer) 12 as a printing apparatus. The computer 11 and the printer 12 exchange data via wireless communication. Then, in the present embodiment, when the signal strength of the data is reduced in the transfer of data, the data transfer speed between the computer 11 and the printer 12 is changed. Further, when the computer 11 and the printer 12 fail to receive the data, the computer 11 and the printer 12 request a retransmission to have the data transmitted again to acquire the data.

The computer 11 is a digital camera 1
3 is connected by a cable, and acquires image information read by the digital camera 13. The computer 11 performs an image conversion process on the acquired image of the image information into image image data to be printed by the printer 12. The computer 11 rasterizes the created image data and transfers the rasterized image data extracted and rasterized to the inkjet printer 12 via wireless communication. The printer 12 prints by driving the nozzles selected based on the raster bit image data. That is, the printer 12 of the present embodiment only forms dots in accordance with raster bit image data and does not perform image processing. The printer 12 of the present embodiment is a black-and-white inkjet printer for convenience of explanation, and a recording head 36 to be described later has 13 nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 in the sub-scanning direction (paper feed direction) as shown in FIG. The description will be made assuming that they are formed at equal intervals.

FIG. 2 is a block circuit diagram for explaining an electrical configuration of the computer 11.

The computer 11 has a CPU 21, a ROM
22, a RAM 23, an input / output interface 24, and a wireless control unit 25. And CPU21, RO
The M22, the RAM 23, the input / output interface 24, and the wireless control unit 25 are mutually connected via a bus 26, and exchange data via the bus 26. The CPU 21 serving as a print data generation unit and a change unit includes a ROM
Various arithmetic processes are executed according to various programs stored in the RAM 22, and the arithmetic processing results are temporarily stored in the RAM 23. The ROM 22 stores various programs and necessary data for the CPU 21, such as a program for executing a rasterizing process in a first print processing mode, a second print processing mode, a first and a second transition mode, and the like. The RAM 23 as the first storage means is a CPU 2
1 stores the data of the result of the arithmetic processing, the program for the CPU 21 and the necessary data. The input / output interface 24 is connected to the digital camera 13 and exchanges data with the digital camera 13. That is, the image information captured by the digital camera 13 is transmitted to the computer 1 via the input / output interface 24.
It is taken into 1.

The CPU 21 extracts image information fetched by the digital camera 13 as image data by command analysis. The CPU 21 performs image processing on the extracted image data according to an image processing program (by a printer driver), performs decompression, resolution conversion, color conversion, halftone processing, and the like, creates image image data, and creates a RAM.
23. Then, the CPU 21 performs a rasterizing process on the image data temporarily stored in the RAM 23.

The wireless control unit 25 as a wireless communication means includes a wireless transmitting / receiving device, and includes the computer 11 and the printer 12
The transmission and reception of data is performed wirelessly between the device and. CPU2
The printer 1 receives print processing status data from the printer 12 from time to time, and calculates a line to be printed in the above-described rasterizing process and a nozzle used to print the line in accordance with the print processing status. The CPU 21 extracts the image data in the scanning direction corresponding to the calculated nozzle and outputs it as raster bit image data.

More specifically, in the next printing operation for one scanning direction (one pass), the printer 12 prints all 13
When printing is performed using the thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 and the raster bit image data for one pass is output to the printer 12, the CPU 21 performs all thirteenth first to third nozzles in the rasterizing process. Each nozzle N for printing using the thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13
The rows for Z1 to NZ13 are calculated. The CPU 21 determines each nozzle N corresponding to each calculated row.
One pass of raster bit image data for Z1 to NZ13 is extracted from the RAM 23 and output to the printer 12 by wireless communication.

On the other hand, when the printer 12 performs a printing operation for the next one pass, all of the thirteenth first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ1
When performing the printing operation using the NZ13, if the raster bit image data for one pass is insufficient, the CPU 2
Reference numeral 1 denotes a first to a thirteenth printing for printing using seven of the thirteenth thirteenth to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 (first to seventh nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 in the present embodiment) in the rasterizing process. The rows for the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 are calculated. The CPU 21 extracts the raster bit image data for one pass in each of the nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 corresponding to each of the calculated rows from the RAM 23 and outputs the raster bit image data to the printer 1 by wireless communication.
Output to 2.

In other words, in this embodiment, the lack of raster bit image data for one pass means that all of the thirteenth to thirteenth nozzles N in the next printing operation for one pass.
When a printing operation is performed using Z1 to NZ13, it takes time to transmit the raster bit image data for one pass, and the printing operation for the current pass is completed and the printing operation for the next one pass is completed. It means that you can't make it. Therefore, the printer 12 cannot perform a printing operation using all of the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13. as a result,
One pass of raster bit image data is transferred to the printer 12
The printing operation is stopped until the print data is transmitted to.

Therefore, the CPU 21 determines the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ1 based on the printing process status from the printer 12.
If the transmission of the raster bit image data for one pass using all of the NZs 13 cannot be performed in time for the next printing operation, the raster bit image data is securely transmitted without stopping until a period in time for the printing operation for the next one pass. First to seventh nozzles NZ1 to N
The raster bit image data for one pass in Z7 is extracted from the RAM 23 and output to the printer 12 by wireless communication.

In a state where the printing operation is performed based on the raster bit image data for one pass using the first to seventh nozzles NZ1 to NZ7, all the thirteen nozzles are printed in the next printing operation for one pass. When the transmission of the raster bit image data for one pass using the NZ1 to NZ13 is ready for the next one pass printing operation, the CPU 21 performs all thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ in the rasterizing process.
A row for printing is calculated using Z13, raster bit image data for one pass of each nozzle NZ1 to NZ13 for the row is extracted from the RAM 23, and output to the printer 12 by wireless communication.

That is, the CPU 21 determines all the nozzles NZ1 to NZ1 based on the print processing status from the printer 12.
When it is determined that transmission of raster bit image data for one pass using No. 3 is in time for the next printing operation, the first print processing mode is set. When the first print processing mode is set, the CPU 21 extracts and transmits raster bit image data for one pass using all the nozzles NZ1 to NZ13.

When the CPU 21 determines that the transmission of the raster bit image data for one pass using all the nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 is not in time for the next printing operation based on the printing processing status from the printer 12, 2 is the print processing mode. In the second print processing mode, the CPU 21 extracts and transmits raster bit image data for one pass using the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ13.

In the rasterizing process, the CPU 21 specifies the next line to be printed and the nozzles used in each line, and extracts and outputs the image data in each line as raster bit image data in association with the nozzles. The RAM 2 is used to prevent the image data for one pass of each extracted row from being extracted again.
The next extractable row is managed by the flag provided in the third row.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, as will be described in detail later, after switching from the first print processing mode to the second print processing mode and from the second print processing mode to the first print processing mode. In several printing operations of
U21 determines whether to extract as raster bit image data by checking the state of the flag so as not to print the same line twice.

Next, the printer 12 for printing an image based on the raster bit image data transmitted from the computer 11 will be described.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a main part for describing a mechanical configuration of the printer 12. As shown in FIG. In FIG. 3, the frame 31 is fixedly provided in the housing of the printer 12. The frame 31 includes a bottom plate 31a, a back plate 31b, and a pair of left and right side plates 31c. A paper feed roller 32 is rotatably supported by the bottom plate 31a. The paper feed roller 32 is disposed in the left-right direction (main scanning direction) with respect to the bottom plate 31a, and is rotated forward / reverse via a paper feed motor M1 fixed to the rear side of the frame 31 and a drive transmission mechanism. The paper feed roller 32 is a roller for feeding the recording paper P as a print medium. When the paper feed motor M1 is driven to rotate forward, the paper feed roller 32 rotates forward and is fed from the back plate 31b side. The recording paper P is guided to the near side.

A guide rail 33 is fixed to the back plate 31b of the frame 31 in the left-right direction. A carriage 34 is supported on the guide rail 33 so as to be movable and non-rotatable along the rail 33. Carriage 3
An ink cartridge 35 is mounted on 4. In the present embodiment, as described above, since the printer 12 is a black-and-white printer 12 for convenience of description, in the present embodiment, one ink cartridge 35 of black ink is mounted.

On the other hand, the lower surface of the carriage 34, that is,
An ink jet type recording head 36 for receiving ink from the ink cartridge 35 is provided on a surface facing the recording paper P, and moves along the guide rail 33 integrally with the carriage 34. Accordingly, the recording head 36 moves in the width direction (main scanning direction) of the recording paper P with respect to the surface of the recording paper P.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the nozzle arrangement formed on the recording head 36 as viewed from the recording paper P side. In FIG. 4, the recording head 36 is formed with 13 nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 as ejection nozzles. The thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 are formed at equal intervals in the sub-scanning direction (paper feed direction). In addition, 13
The nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 are placed on the back plate 31b side (upper side in FIG. 4) for convenience of explanation.
1, second nozzle NZ2,..., Twelfth nozzle NZ
The twelfth and thirteenth nozzles NZ13. Then, the first to thirteenth nozzles each including a piezo element provided in the recording head 36 corresponding to the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13, respectively.
The first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ are driven by driving the nozzle driving bodies DNZ1 to DNZ13 (see FIG. 5).
From 13, ink droplets are ejected toward the surface of the recording paper P. Then, an image is printed on the recording paper P by landing the ejected ink droplets on the recording paper. At this time, printing of a maximum of 13 rasters is performed by one movement (one pass) in the main scanning direction.
That is, a maximum of 13 "lines" are printed at the same time.

In the present embodiment, the arrangement pitch of the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 arranged at regular intervals in the sub-scanning direction is 1/120 inch. In the present embodiment, the minimum paper feed pitch of the paper feed motor M1 is set to 1/720 inch. Incidentally, the paper feed pitch in the first print processing mode is 13/720 inches, and the paper feed pitch in the second print processing mode is 7
/ 720 inches. Further, in a first transition mode described later before a transition from the first print processing mode to the second print processing mode, in a first transition mode described later, a transition to the first print processing mode from the second print processing mode is performed. In the second transition mode described later, the paper feed pitch is appropriately changed. This paper feed pitch is added as an attribute command when the raster bit image data is transmitted from the computer 11.

A carriage motor M2 is fixedly provided on the right side of the rear surface of the back plate 31b of the frame 31. The output shaft of the carriage motor M2 projects to the front side of the back plate 31b, and the drive pulley 37 is fixed to the projected portion.
A driven pulley 38 is rotatably supported on the front left side of the back plate 31b facing the pulley 37. A timing belt 39 is mounted between the driving pulley 37 and the driven pulley 38 so as to be parallel to the guide rail 33. A part of the timing belt 39 is connected and fixed to the carriage 34. Therefore, when the carriage motor M2 rotates forward and backward, the timing belt 39 rotates forward and backward, and the carriage 34 (recording head 36) reciprocates in the left-right direction (main scanning direction) along the guide rail 33.

Next, the electrical configuration of the printer 12 will be described with reference to the electrical block circuit diagram shown in FIG.

In FIG. 5, the printer 12 includes a print controller 41 and a print engine 42. The print controller 41 includes a CPU 43, a ROM
44, a RAM 45, a wireless control unit 46, and an output interface 47. And the CPU 43 and the ROM
The RAM 44, the wireless controller 46, and the output interface 47 are connected to each other via a bus 48 to exchange data.

The CPU 43 serving as a print control unit and a print processing status calculation unit executes the print engine 42 according to various programs such as a control program stored in the ROM 44 and a program for calculating the print processing status based on the amount of stored rasterized bit image data. To perform a series of processing operations for printing on the recording paper P by driving.
The RAM 45 temporarily stores a series of calculation processing results performed by the CPU 43. The RAM 45 is provided with an input image buffer 45a as a second storage unit for temporarily storing raster bit image data based on the first and second print processing modes transmitted from the computer 11. The wireless control unit 46 as a wireless communication unit includes a wireless transmitting and receiving device, and the wireless control unit 25 of the computer 11
The printer 11 receives raster bit image data wirelessly transmitted from the printer 11 and transmits data on the print processing status of the printer 12 to the computer 11.

The CPU 43 sequentially stores the raster bit image data for the next one-pass printing operation received by the wireless control unit 25 in the input image buffer 45a. That is, the input image buffer 45a stores the raster bit image data for the nozzles used in the printing operation for the next one pass.

The CPU 43 has an input image buffer 45a.
Read raster bit image data stored in
The first to thirteenth nozzle drivers DNZ1 to DNZ1 are output to the output buffer 45b and based on the raster bit image data.
NZ13 (first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13) is driven.

That is, when the computer 11 transmits raster bit image data based on the first print processing mode, the CPU 43 sets the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ.
No. 13 based on the raster bit image data for one pass, the first to thirteenth nozzle drivers DNZ1 to NZ13
(The first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13) are driven. When the computer 11 transmits raster bit image data based on the second print processing mode, the
U43 is based on the raster bit image data for one pass using the first to seventh nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 and the first to seventh nozzle drivers DNZ1 to NZ7 (the first to seventh nozzles NZ7 to NZ7).
Z1 to NZ7) are driven. Therefore, the recording head 36
Are printed at the same speed while reciprocating in the main scanning direction, the print processing speed (print processing amount) in the second print processing mode becomes equal to the print processing speed (print processing amount) in the first print processing mode. About half as slow.

The CPU 43 includes an input image buffer 45
The raster bit image data read from a and output to the output buffer 45b is output to the output interface 47. Further, the CPU 43 outputs a drive control signal for controlling the paper feed motor M1 and the carriage motor M2 to the output interface 47. CPU43
Is configured to generate and output a drive control signal for driving and controlling each of the motors M1 and M2 based on a command which is fetched together with the raster bit image data.

The output interface 47 is connected to the paper feed motor drive circuit 51, the carriage motor drive circuit 52, and the first to thirteenth nozzle drive circuits 53a to 53m constituting the print engine 42.

The output interface 47 is connected to the CPU 43
Is output to the paper feed motor drive circuit 51. The paper feed motor drive circuit 51 drives and controls the paper feed motor M1 based on the drive control signal to feed the recording paper P. The CPU 43 controls the recording head 3 in each of the modes.
6 outputs a drive control signal to the paper feed motor drive circuit 51 each time printing in the main scanning direction is completed, that is, each time a printing operation for one pass is completed.

The output interface 47 is connected to the CPU 43
Is output to the carriage motor drive circuit 52. The carriage motor drive circuit 52 drives and controls the carriage motor M2 based on the drive control signal to cause the recording head 36 to reciprocate. The CPU 43 outputs a drive control signal to the carriage motor drive circuit 52 every time the recording paper P is fed by the paper feed motor M1. In the present embodiment, the CPU 43 controls the rotation speed of the paper feed motor M1 so that the recording head 36 reciprocates at the same speed in each of the modes.

The output interface 47 is connected to the CPU 43
The raster bit image data read by
Output to the three nozzle drive circuits 53a to 53m. That is,
The output interface 47 outputs the raster bit image data for the first nozzle NZ1 to the first nozzle drive circuit 5.
3a, raster bit image data for the second nozzle NZ2 to the second nozzle drive circuit 53b,...
.., And outputs the raster bit image data for the thirteenth nozzle NZ13 to the thirteenth nozzle drive circuit 53m. The first to thirteenth nozzle driving circuits 53a to 53m
The corresponding first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13
Corresponding to the first raster bit image data
To the thirteenth nozzle driving bodies DNZ1 to DNZ13.

In the first print processing mode, the CPU 43 sends data in the main scanning direction (“row” direction) of the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 to the corresponding first to thirteenth nozzle driving circuits 53a to 53m. Output each. on the other hand,
In the second print processing mode, the CPU 43
Main scanning direction (“row” direction) of the seventh nozzles NZ1 to NZ7
Corresponding to the first to seventh nozzle drive circuits 53a to 53a to
Output each to 53g.

The CPU 43 calculates the print processing status from time to time. In the present embodiment, the storage amount of raster bit image data wirelessly transmitted from the computer 11 and stored in the input image buffer 45a is divided by a unit time, and the calculated storage amount per unit time is used for the next one pass. An operation is performed to determine whether the raster bit image data is ready for the next one-pass printing operation. This calculation is performed during one scanning time of the carriage 34 (during a printing operation for one pass) and using the received amount per unit time for the next one pass using all thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ13. An operation is performed to determine whether raster bit image data can be received in the printing operation. Then, the CPU 43 determines whether or not reception is possible as data of a printing process status by the computer 1.
1 is transmitted via radio. The computer 11 determines whether this reception is possible based on the data of the print processing status in one of the first print processing mode and the second print processing mode, and performs the rasterization processing.

Next, the operation of the ink jet recording apparatus 10 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIGS. 6 to 8 show lines to be printed at each print operation count and printing of the lines when printing in the first print processing mode → second print processing mode → first print processing mode. Shows the nozzles used for printing. 6 to 8, numbers in the vertical direction (“101” to “360”)
Indicates a print line, and numbers in the horizontal direction (“1” to “31”) indicate the number of times of printing operation. Also, the numbers in each square ("01"-
“13”) indicates the nozzle number. Incidentally, the nozzle number “01” is the first nozzle NZ1, the nozzle number “02” is the second nozzle NZ2,..., The nozzle number “12” is the twelfth nozzle NZ12, and the nozzle number “13” is the thirteenth nozzle.
The nozzle NZ13 is used. Furthermore, "*" in the square
Indicates a line that has already been printed in a printing operation “−” before a printing operation starting from the number of printing operations “1”.
Furthermore, squares surrounded by thick lines indicate nozzles that are not used in the first transition mode.

By the way, in the figure, the number of printing operations “1” to
“6” is the first print processing mode, the number of print operations “7” to
“12” is the first transition mode, the number of printing operations “13” to
“18” is the second print processing mode, the number of print operations “1”
9 to 24 are the second transition mode and the number of print operations “2”.
“5” to “31” indicate a printing operation in the first print processing mode.

[First Print Processing Mode] Now, when the number of print operations “1” to “6” shown in FIG.
The printing operation is performed using all of the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13. That is, the computer 11 performs the rasterizing process in the first print processing mode, and transmits the extracted raster bit image data to the printer 12 by wireless communication.

That is, when the number of printing operations is “1”, 1
01 line, 107 line, 113 line, 119 line, 125 line, 1 line
31 lines, 137 lines, 143 lines, 149 lines, 155 lines, 1
One pass of raster bit image data for 61 lines, 167 lines, and 173 lines is extracted by the computer 11 and transmitted to the printer 12.

Then, the CPU 43 of the printer 12 executes the one-pass based on the raster bit image data for one pass.
Carriage motor M after feeding 3/720 inch paper
2 is driven to perform a printing operation. Specifically, the CPU 4
3 is a first nozzle NZ1 for line 101, a second nozzle NZ2 for line 107, a third nozzle NZ3 for line 113, a fourth nozzle NZ4 for line 119, and a fifth nozzle NZ5, 131 for line 125.
Row is the sixth nozzle NZ6, 137 row is the seventh nozzle NZ7,
Row 143 is the eighth nozzle NZ8, Row 149 is the ninth nozzle N
Rows Z9 and 155 are the tenth nozzle NZ10, row 161 is the eleventh nozzle NZ11 and row 167 is the twelfth nozzle NZ1.
A printing operation for one pass is performed on lines 2 and 173 by the thirteenth nozzle NZ13.

At this time, the CPU 43 of the printer 12
The storage amount is calculated while receiving raster bit image data for the next one pass printing operation (here, the number of printing operations “2”) from the computer 11. Then, it is calculated whether or not it is possible to receive the raster bit image data for the next one-pass printing operation using all the thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 with the accumulated amount per unit time. In this case, the CPU 43 transmits the data of the print processing status indicating that the data can be received to the computer 11 via wireless communication.

Then, the computer 11 maintains the first print processing mode based on the data of the print processing status indicating that the data can be received, performs the rasterization process in the first print processing mode, and executes the raster bit for one pass. The image data is transmitted to the printer 12. That is, at the print operation number “2”, 114 lines, 120 lines, 126 lines,
132 lines, 138 lines, 144 lines, 150 lines, 156 lines,
One pass of raster bit image data for 162 lines, 168 lines, 174 lines, 180 lines, and 186 lines is extracted by the computer 11 and transmitted to the printer 12.

When the printing operation of the number of printing operations "1" is completed, the raster bit image data for the next one pass performed using the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 is already stored (stored) in the input image buffer 45a. Then, the operation proceeds to the printing operation of the number of printing operations “2”. CPU43
After the recording paper P is fed 13/720 inch paper by the paper feed motor M1, the carriage motor M2 is driven to perform the printing operation. That is, the CPU 43 sets the 114th row to the first nozzle NZ1, the 120th row to the second nozzle NZ2, the 126th row to the third nozzle NZ3, and the 132th row to the fourth nozzle NZ4, 13
Eight rows for fifth nozzle NZ5, 144 rows for sixth nozzle NZ
Lines 6, 150 are the seventh nozzle NZ7, line 156 is the eighth nozzle NZ8, line 162 is the ninth nozzle NZ9, line 168 is the tenth nozzle NZ10, and line 174 is the eleventh nozzle NZ1.
Line 1,180 is the twelfth nozzle NZ12, Line 186 is the first nozzle
The printing operation for one pass is performed by each of the three nozzles NZ13.

At this time, the CPU 43 of the printer 12
In the same manner as described above, the data of the print processing status that the reception can be performed based on the storage amount is transmitted to the computer 11 via wireless communication. Then, the computer 11 performs the rasterization process in the first print processing mode based on the data of the print processing status indicating that the reception is possible, and transmits the raster bit image data for one pass.

When the printing operation of the number of printing operations “2” is completed, the CPU 43 sets the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13.
Is performed based on the raster bit image data for the next one-pass printing operation (here, the number of printing operations "3"). CPU 43 is a paper feed motor M
After the recording paper P is fed 13/720 inch paper at 1, the carriage motor M2 is driven, and 127 rows, 133
Row, 139 row, 145 row, 151 row, 157 row, 163
Row, 169 row, 175 row, 181 row, 187 row, 193
The printing operation is performed based on the raster bit image data for one pass in the rows 199 and 199.

Thereafter, the same printing is performed up to the printing operation of the number of printing operations "6".

[First print processing mode → second print processing mode] During the printing operation with the number of printing operations “6”, C
In the PU 43, the accumulation amount of the raster bit image data stored in the input image buffer 45a decreases for some reason, and the next printing operation (here, the number of printing operations “7”) is performed.
Before executing the process, the data of the print processing status in which the one-pass raster bit image data using the 13 nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 cannot be received (stored) is transmitted to the computer 11 via wireless communication.

The computer 11 performs the printing operation of the number of printing operations “7” to “12” in the first transition mode before the transition to the second printing mode based on the data of the printing status that the reception is not possible. Is performed. That is, in the first transition mode, the CPU 21 of the computer 11 firstly sets the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ
The raster bit image data for one pass for the next printing operation (the number of printing operations “7”) by Z7 is
Send to 2. The CPU 21 determines that 179 lines, 185 lines, 191 lines, 197 lines, 20
One pass of raster bit image data for three lines, 209 lines, and 215 lines is extracted and transmitted to the printer 12. Therefore, since the raster bit image data for one pass is reduced by half, the raster bit for the next one pass by the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 is surely obtained before the printing operation of the printing operation number “6” is completed. The image data is stored in the input image buffer 45a of the printer 12.

When the printing operation of the number of printing operations “6” is completed, printing is performed based on the raster bit image data for the next one-pass printing operation performed using the first to seventh nozzles NZ1 to NZ7. The operation proceeds to the printing operation of the operation number “7”. First, the CPU 43 drives the carriage motor M2 after the recording paper P is fed 13/720 inch paper by the paper feed motor M1, and as shown in FIG.
185 lines, 191 lines, 197 lines, 203 lines, 209 lines,
The printing operation is performed based on the raster bit image data for one pass in line 215. In the printing operation with the number of printing operations "7" in the first transition mode, the paper feed pitch of the recording paper P is set to 13/720 inches, and the feed pitch is set by the attribute command used when the raster bit image data is transmitted. Is controlled based on the

In the printing operation with the number of printing operations "7", 179 lines are the first nozzle NZ1, and 185 lines are the second nozzle NZ1.
Nozzle NZ2, line 191 is third nozzle NZ3, line 197 is fourth nozzle NZ4, line 203 is fifth nozzle NZ5,2
Line 09 is the sixth nozzle NZ6, Line 215 is the seventh nozzle NZ
At step 7, a printing operation for one pass is performed. At this time,
The CPU 43 of the printer 12 calculates the amount of storage per unit time, and calculates whether it is possible to receive (store) raster bit image data for the next one pass using the 13 nozzles NZ1 to NZ13. In this case, the CPU 43
The data of the print processing status indicating that the data cannot be received yet is transmitted to the computer 11 via wireless communication.

The computer 11 maintains the second print processing mode based on the data of the print processing status indicating that it cannot be received, performs rasterization processing in the second print processing mode, and outputs raster bit image data for one pass. Send. Therefore, since the raster bit image data for one pass is transmitted by the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ7, it is ensured by the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 before the printing operation of the printing operation number “7” is completed. Is transmitted to the printer 12 for one pass.

Here, in the printing operation with the number of printing operations "8", 192 lines except for 186 lines, 198 lines, and 204 lines
One pass of raster bit image data for rows 210, 216, and 222 is extracted and transmitted. In other words, one pass of raster bit image data for 186 lines is excluded because the 186 lines are printed by the thirteenth nozzle NZ13 in the printing operation of the previous printing operation number “2”. Raster bit image data for one pass of a row is not transmitted. CPU 2 of computer 11
In the rasterizing process, a flag is set for a row of raster bit image data transmitted earlier, and based on the flag, raster bit image data of the same row is not transmitted to the printer 12 again.

When the printing operation with the number of printing operations "7" is completed, the operation shifts to the printing operation based on the raster bit image data for the printing operation with the number of printing operations "8". C
PU43 feeds the recording paper P by the paper feed motor M1 to 7/720.
After feeding the inch paper, the carriage motor M2 is driven to perform a printing operation. More specifically, the CPU 43 assigns 192 rows to the second nozzle NZ2 and 198 rows to the third nozzles NZ3, NZ2.
Line 04 is the fourth nozzle NZ4, Line 210 is the fifth nozzle NZ
Lines 5 and 216 are printed by the sixth nozzle NZ6, and lines 222 are printed by the seventh nozzle NZ7 for one pass.

Similarly, in the printing operation of the number of printing operations "9" to "12", several of the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 are not used so that the same line is not printed twice. .

More specifically, in the printing operation with the number of printing operations of “9”, one printing operation with the number of printing operations of “3” is one.
Since 93 lines and 199 lines are printed, 193
Rows, 205 rows excluding 199 rows, 211 rows, 217 rows, 2
The printing operation for one pass in the 23rd line and the 229th line is performed.
That is, the CPU 21 of the computer 11 sets a flag for the previously transmitted raster bit image data at the time of the rasterizing process, and based on the flag, the raster bit image data of the same line is again output to the printer 12.
To be sent to. Therefore, the CPU 43
Means that after the recording paper P is fed 7/720 inch paper,
5 rows for the third nozzle NZ3, 211 rows for the fourth nozzle NZ
The printing operation is performed by the fifth nozzle NZ5 on lines 4 and 217, by the sixth nozzle NZ6 on line 223, and by the seventh nozzle NZ7 on line 229.

In the printing operation with the number of printing operations "10", since 200 lines have been printed in the printing operation with the number of printing operations "4", 206 lines excluding the 200 lines are printed.
The printing operation for one pass is performed on 212 lines, 218 lines, 224 lines, 230 lines, and 236 lines. That is, the CPU 21 of the computer 11 transmits the raster bit image data of the same row again to the printer 1 based on the flag as described above.
2 is not transmitted. And the CPU 43
Means that after the recording paper P is fed 7/720 inch paper,
6 rows for the second nozzle NZ2, 212 rows for the third nozzle NZ
The printing operation is performed by the fourth nozzle NZ4 on line 3, 218, the fifth nozzle NZ5 on line 224, the sixth nozzle NZ6 on line 230, and the seventh nozzle NZ7 on line 236.

Further, in the printing operation with the number of printing operations of “11”, the printing operation with the number of printing operations of “5” is performed 20 times in the printing operation.
Since one line, 213 lines, 219 lines, and 225 lines are printed, a printing operation for one pass is performed on 231 lines, 237 lines, and 243 lines excluding 201 lines, 213 lines, 219 lines, and 225 lines. That is, the CPU 2 of the computer 11
In the rasterizing process, a flag is set for a row of raster bit image data transmitted earlier, and based on the flag, raster bit image data of the same row is not transmitted to the printer 12 again. Accordingly, after the recording paper P is fed by 7/20 inch paper, the CPU 43 sets the 231 line to the fifth nozzle NZ5 and the 237 line to the sixth nozzle NZ5.
The printing operation of the nozzles NZ6 and 243 is performed by the seventh nozzle NZ7.

Further, in the printing operation with the number of printing operations of “12”, the printing operation with the number of printing operations of “6” in the previous printing operation is “2”.
Since lines 01, 213, 219, and 225 are printed, 214 lines, 220 lines, 226 lines, 232 lines
The printing operation for one pass in 244 lines and 250 lines excluding the lines 238 and 238 is performed. That is, the CP of the computer 11
U21 prevents the raster bit image data of the same row from being transmitted to the printer 12 again based on the flag as described above. Then, the CPU 43 sets the recording paper P
Are fed by 7/720 inch paper, and the printing operation is performed on the 244th line by the sixth nozzle NZ6 and the 250th line by the seventh nozzle NZ7.

Then, the raster bit image data for one pass using the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 is transmitted from the printing operation with the number of printing operations "13". That is, the CPU 21 of the computer 11 performs the rasterizing process from the first transition mode to the second print processing mode. Therefore, from the printing operation of the number of printing operations "13", the recording paper P is fed by 7/720 inch and the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ are fed.
7 is performed. Thereafter, until the amount of raster bit image data for the next one pass using the 13 nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 can be received, the second
The printing operation based on the print processing mode is performed in the printer 12.

[Second Print Processing Mode → Third Print Processing Mode] When the printing operation is performed in the second print processing mode, the accumulated amount per unit time increases, and the number of thirteen print processing modes increases. The CPU 43 transmits the data of the printing process status in which the raster bit image data for one pass using the nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 can be received (stored) by the computer 11.
Over the air. The computer 11 performs the second processing based on the print processing status data indicating that the data can be received.
From the print processing mode to the first print processing mode. In the present embodiment, the printing operation (the number of printing operations “19” to “24” in the present embodiment) in the second transition mode before the transition from the second print processing mode to the first print processing mode is first executed. .

In the present embodiment, the thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ1 are used during the printing operation “18” shown in FIG.
When it is determined that the raster bit image data for one pass of No. 3 can be received, the CPU 21 determines the number of printing operations “19”.
In the printing operation, the raster bit image data for one pass using the 13 nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 is sent to the printer 12 by feeding 7/720 inch paper. That is, 263 lines, 269 lines, 275 lines, 281 lines, 28
7 lines, 293 lines, 299 lines, 305 lines, 311 lines, 31
Raster bit image data of 7 lines, 323 lines, 329 lines, and 335 lines is extracted and transmitted to the printer 12. Then, in the printing operation of the number of printing operations “19”, the CPU 43 feeds the recording paper P by 7/720 inch paper and then sets 263 lines to the first nozzle NZ1, 269 lines to the second nozzle NZ2, and 275 lines to the third nozzle NZ2. Nozzle NZ3, row 281
Nozzle NZ4, line 287 is fifth nozzle NZ5, line 293 is sixth nozzle NZ6, line 299 is seventh nozzle NZ7,3
Row 05 is the eighth nozzle NZ8, Row 311 is the ninth nozzle NZ
Rows 9 and 317 are the 10th nozzle NZ10 and rows 323 are the 1st nozzle
1 nozzle NZ11, line 329 to twelfth nozzle NZ12,
A printing operation is performed on line 335 with the thirteenth nozzle NZ13.

When the printer 12 is performing the printing operation of the number of printing operations “19”, the CPU 21 reduces the recording paper P by 1 / from the next printing operation number of “20” to the printing operation of the printing operation number “24”. Rasterizing processing is performed by feeding at least 720 inches of paper and using at least one of the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ7. To elaborate,
In the printing operation with the number of printing operations “20”, one pass of raster bit image data for performing the printing operation on the 270 lines by the second nozzle NZ2 is transmitted. And
After the recording paper P is fed by 1/720 inch, the CPU 43 performs a printing operation on 270 lines by the second nozzle NZ2.

In the printing operation with the number of printing operations "21", raster bit image data for one pass for transmitting the printing operation of the third nozzle NZ3 on the 277th line and the fourth nozzle NZ4 on the 283th line is transmitted. . And the CPU 43
Means that after the recording paper P is fed by 1/720 inch,
Row 7 is the third nozzle NZ3, Row 283 is the fourth nozzle NZ4
Performs printing operation.

In the printing operation with the number of printing operations of “22”, one pass for performing the printing operation by 284 lines by the fourth nozzle NZ4, 290 lines by the fifth nozzle NZ5, and 296 lines by the sixth nozzle NZ6. Is transmitted. Then, the CPU 43 sets the recording paper P to 1/72.
After feeding 0 inch paper, 284 lines are set to the fourth nozzle NZ.
The printing operation is performed by the fifth nozzle NZ5 on the fourth and 290th lines by the sixth nozzle NZ6 on the 296th line.

In the printing operation with the number of printing operations "23", 291 lines are printed by the fifth nozzle NZ5, 297 lines are printed by the sixth nozzle NZ6, and 303 lines are printed by the seventh nozzle NZ7 for one pass. Is transmitted. Then, the CPU 43 sets the recording paper P to 1/72.
After feeding 0 inch paper, the 291th row is changed to the fifth nozzle NZ.
The printing operation is performed with the sixth nozzle NZ6 on the fifth and 297th lines and with the seventh nozzle NZ7 on the 303rd line.

In the printing operation with the number of printing operations "24", raster bit image data for one pass for transmitting the 298 lines by the sixth nozzle NZ6 and the 304 lines by the seventh nozzle NZ7 is transmitted. . And the CPU 43
Means that after the recording paper P is fed 1/720 inch,
Line 8 is the sixth nozzle NZ6, Line 304 is the seventh nozzle NZ7
Performs printing operation.

That is, the number of printing operations "19" to "24"
The second transition mode of the thirteen nozzles NZ to be performed next
This is a mode for preventing a line that is not printed in advance when performing a printing operation in the first print processing mode using 1 to NZ13.

Then, when the printing operation of the number of printing operations “24” is performed based on the last second transition mode, the CPU 21 of the computer 11 performs the rasterizing processing based on the first printing processing mode. More specifically, 276 lines, 282 lines,
88 lines, 294 lines, 300 lines, 306 lines, 312 lines, 3
18 lines, 324 lines, 330 lines, 336 lines, 342 lines, 3 lines
The raster bit image data for one pass in 48 rows is extracted and transmitted to the printer 12.

That is, the CPU 43 of the printer 12 drives the carriage motor M2 after feeding the recording paper P by 1/720 inch and moves the 276 lines to the first nozzles NZ1,
Line 282 is the second nozzle NZ2, Line 288 is the third nozzle N
Rows Z3, 294 are the fourth nozzle NZ4, row 300 is the fifth nozzle NZ5, row 306 is the sixth nozzle NZ6, row 312 is the seventh nozzle NZ7, row 318 is the eighth nozzle NZ8, 32
Fourth row is ninth nozzle NZ9, 330th row is tenth nozzle NZ
Rows 10 and 336 are the eleventh nozzle NZ11, row 342 is the twelfth nozzle NZ12, and row 348 is the thirteenth nozzle NZ13.
Perform the printing operation for one pass.

At this time, the CPU 43 of the printer 12
Calculate the accumulated amount per unit time and calculate 13 nozzles NZ
It is calculated whether raster bit image data for the next one pass using 1 to NZ13 can be received (stored).
In this case, the CPU 43 transmits the data of the print processing status that can be received to the computer 11 via wireless.

Then, the computer 11 maintains the first print processing mode based on the data of the print processing status that the reception is possible, performs the rasterization process in the first print processing mode, and executes the raster bit for one pass. Image data sent. Therefore, the thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ1
Since the raster bit image data for one pass using the NZ13 is transmitted, the thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ are surely transmitted before the printing operation of the number of printing operations “25” is completed.
The raster bit image data for the next one pass using the data 13 is transmitted to the printer 12. That is, 289 lines, 29
5, 301, 307, 313, 319, 32
5 lines, 331 lines, 337 lines, 343 lines, 349 lines, 35
The raster bit image data for one pass in five rows and 361 rows (not shown) is extracted and transmitted to the printer 12.

Then, the CPU 43 of the printer 12 drives the carriage motor M2 after feeding the recording paper P by 13/720 inch, and sets 289 lines to the first nozzle NZ.
Rows 1 and 295 are the second nozzle NZ2, row 301 is the third nozzle NZ3, row 307 is the fourth nozzle NZ4, row 313 is the fifth nozzle NZ5, row 319 is the sixth nozzle NZ6, 325.
The row is the seventh nozzle NZ7, the row 331 is the eighth nozzle NZ8,
Line 337 is the ninth nozzle NZ9, line 343 is the tenth nozzle NZ10, line 349 is the eleventh nozzle NZ11, line 355 is the twelfth nozzle NZ12, and line 361 is the thirteenth nozzle NZ.
At 13, a printing operation for one pass is performed.

Thereafter, similarly, the thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ
The printing operation based on the first print processing mode is performed in the printer 12 until the accumulated amount becomes such that the next one pass of raster bit image data using No. 13 cannot be received.

As described above, the present embodiment has the following effects.

(1) According to the present embodiment, the data transfer rate is changed due to the fact that the signal strength of the raster bit image data transmitted by wireless communication is reduced due to the distance or the obstruction at any time. Or when the storage amount of the raster bit image data received by the inkjet printer 12 decreases, for example, when the reception of the raster bit image data fails due to an obstacle and the raster bit image data is transmitted to the inkjet printer 12 again. Reduced the print processing speed.

That is, when the storage amount of the raster bit image data received by the inkjet printer 12 decreases, the printing operation using the thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 is changed to the printing operation using the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ7. Switched to.

Therefore, even if the storage amount of the raster bit image data fluctuates and becomes insufficient, the print processing can be continued without stopping the print processing operation.

Moreover, since the traveling speed of the recording head 36 is constant even if the printing processing speed changes, the amount of ink droplets ejected per unit time in the main scanning direction can be made constant. The degree of permeation is constant and color unevenness does not occur, and image quality can be improved.

(2) According to the present embodiment, the printer 12
Indicates the printing processing status at each time of each printing operation by the computer 1.
Except for transmission to 1, the printing operation is only performed based on the raster bit image data from the computer 11. Therefore, the load on the CPU 43 of the printer 12 is reduced.

(3) According to the present embodiment, a flag is set for a row of raster bit image data already extracted in the rasterizing process. Then, when shifting from the first print processing mode to the second print processing mode, the raster bit image data of the previously transmitted line is extracted based on the flag in the first shift mode and is not transmitted. .

Therefore, by shifting from the first print processing mode to the second print processing mode, the printing operation is not performed twice on the same line even if the paper feed pitch and the number of nozzles used change.

(4) According to the present embodiment, when shifting from the second print processing mode to the first print processing mode, the recording paper P is fed by 1/720 inch in the second shift mode, and After performing a printing operation using at least one of the nozzles NZ1 to NZ7, the first
To the print processing mode.

Therefore, the thirteen nozzles NZ1 to NZ13
When performing a printing operation in the first print processing mode in which the paper feed pitch becomes as large as 13/720 inches by using the above, eliminating lines that are not printed in advance and smoothly performing the printing operation in the first print processing mode Can be.

The embodiment of the present invention may be modified as follows.

In the above embodiment, the printer 12 transmits the print processing status to the computer 11 at each printing operation based on the accumulated amount at that time. The computer 11 calculates the storage amount based on the transmission amount at each time, grasps the print processing status, and executes either the first print processing mode or the second print processing mode. The calculation program may be provided in the ROM 22 so that the CPU 21 has a print status calculation function. in this case,
The load on the CPU 43 of the printer 12 is further reduced.

In the above embodiment, when switching from the first print processing mode to the second print processing mode, the first print mode is passed to the second print processing mode, and the second print processing mode is switched to the second print processing mode. When the mode is switched to the first print processing mode, the mode is switched to the first print processing mode via the second transition mode. This may be performed such that the printing operation in the first transition mode and the second transition mode are omitted, and the operation is immediately switched to the first and second print processing operations.

In this case, since the printing operation in the first transition mode and the second transition mode is omitted, the resolution is reduced. However, similar to the above embodiment, the printing process is continued without stopping the printing process operation. Thus, the degree of permeation of the ink droplets into the recording paper P can be kept constant, and the image quality can be improved.

In the above-described embodiment, the mode is switched immediately when it is determined that the accumulated amount of the raster bit image data for one pass for the next printing operation is not enough for the printing operation.

The change in the amount of storage of the raster bit image data for one pass in the printing operation at each time is determined, and the change for the printing operation several times ahead of the change is calculated.
It is predicted that the accumulated amount of the raster bit image data for the pass will not be in time for the printing operation. Then, the prediction may be set as the print processing status, and at the time when the prediction is performed, the first print processing mode may be switched to the second print processing mode via the first transition mode. In this case, the change and prediction of the storage amount are determined by the CP of the printer 12.
The calculation is performed by either the U43 or the CPU 21 of the computer 11.

Further, the printing operation in the first transition mode when switching from the first print processing mode to the second print processing mode via the first transition mode immediately at the predicted point in time is shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. This may be performed in the transition mode.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a line to be printed in the number of printing operations “1” to “9” and nozzles used for printing the line. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the number of printing operations “5” to “1”.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a line to be printed and nozzles used for printing the line in “9”. In the drawing, the printing operation before the number of printing operations “1” is performed in the first print processing mode,
The number of printing operations “2” to “12” indicate the first transition mode, and the number of printing operations after “13” indicate the printing operation in the second print processing mode. That is, FIGS. 9 and 10 show the first transition in the case where mode switching is predicted in a print processing state based on the amount of accumulated raster bit image data for one pass for a print operation with the number of print operations “1”. 9 shows a printing operation in a mode.

The CPU 21 of the computer 11
Determines whether to switch from the first print processing mode to the second print processing mode based on one pass of raster bit image data for a print operation with the number of print operations “1”. The CPU 21 executes a first transition mode before the transition from the first print processing mode to the second print processing mode. The CPU 21 of the computer 11 performs a rasterizing process using at least one of the 13 nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 from the printing operation number “2” to the printing operation number “6”. From the number of times “7” to the number of print operations of “12”, the rasterizing process is performed using at least one of the seven nozzles NZ1 to NZ7. At this time, CPU2
1 is to feed the recording paper P by 7/720 inch paper from the printing operation number “2” to the printing operation of the printing operation number “7”,
The recording paper P is fed by 1/720 inch from the printing operation number “8” to the printing operation number “12”.

In FIGS. 9 and 10, squares surrounded by thick lines in the number of printing operations “2” to “12” indicate nozzles not used in the first transition mode.
Further, the paper feed pitch of the printing operation of the first number of printing operations “13” in the second print processing mode is set to 2/720 inch.

In the above embodiment, the present invention is embodied in the black-and-white inkjet printer 12, but may be embodied in a color inkjet printer.

In the above embodiment, the number of nozzles is embodied as 13 in the ink jet printer 12. However, the present invention is not limited to the number of nozzles.
The present invention may be embodied in two, forty-eight, ninety-six, etc. ink jet printers. Of course, the number of nozzles is 13 for one color.
The present invention may be embodied in a color ink jet printer including 32, 48, 96, and the like.

In the above embodiment, the first to thirteenth nozzles NZ1 to NZ13 are printed using the first to seventh nozzles NZ1 to NZ7 in the second reading and printing processing mode. When the number is further reduced, the printing operation may be performed using a smaller number of nozzles, for example, the first to third nozzles NZ1 to NZ3.

In the above embodiment, the wireless communication system for data transfer between the inkjet printer 12 as a printer and the computer 11 as an external device is not particularly limited, but may be an infrared communication system or a radio communication communication system. The system may be used.

In the above-described embodiment, the wireless communication system is used for data transfer between the ink jet printer 12 as a printer and the computer 11, but the data transfer between the ink jet printer 12 and the computer 11 is performed by a cable such as a cable. The present invention may also be applied to a device that exchanges information.

[0130]

As described above in detail, according to the first to fourteenth aspects of the present invention, even if the amount of stored image data fluctuates and the amount of image data becomes insufficient, the print processing can be performed without stopping the print processing operation. And the quality can be improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram for describing a system configuration of an inkjet recording apparatus.

FIG. 2 is a block circuit diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of a computer.

FIG. 3 is a main part perspective view for explaining a mechanical configuration of the ink jet printer.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a nozzle array formed in a print head.

FIG. 5 is an electric block circuit diagram showing an electric configuration of the ink jet printer.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a line to be printed and the nozzles used for printing the line when the number of printing operations is “1” to “9”.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a line to be printed in the number of print operations “5” to “16” and nozzles used for printing the line.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a line to be printed and the nozzles used for printing the line when the number of printing operations is “13” to “31”.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a line to be printed and nozzles used for printing the line in the number of printing operations for explaining another first transition mode.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a line to be printed and nozzles used for printing the line in the number of printing operations for explaining another first transition mode.

[Explanation of symbols]

P Recording paper as print medium M1 Paper feed motor M2 Carriage motor NZ1 to NZ6 First to sixth nozzles DNZ1 to DNZ6 First to sixth as nozzle driving bodies
Nozzle driver 10 Ink-jet recording device 11 Computer 12 Ink-jet printer as printing device 21 CPU as print data generating means, changing means 23 RAM as first storage means 25 Wireless control unit as wireless communication means 36 Recording head 41 Print Controller 42 Print engine 43 C as print control means and print processing status calculation means
PU 45 RAM 45a Input image buffer 45b Output buffer 46 as second storage means Wireless controller 51 as wireless communication means 51 Paper feed motor drive circuit 52 Carriage motor drive circuit 53a to 53m First to thirteenth nozzle drive circuits

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) 5C074 F-term (Reference) 2C056 EB58 EC08 EC11 EC28 EC74 2C061 AQ05 AR01 CG02 CG15 2C087 AA15 AB05 AC02 AC07 BA03 BA07 BC02 BC05 BC07 CB02 CB13 2C187 AC02 AC08 5B021 AA01 BB02 BB10 DD10 5C074 AA02 AA15 BB16 CC26 DD08 DD16 EE11 GG09

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. A printer engine for moving a recording head having a large number of ejection nozzles in a sub-scanning direction at a constant speed in a main scanning direction and driving each ejection nozzle to eject ink droplets, and develops image information into an image. The image data obtained in the first storage means is stored in a first storage means, and the image data stored in the first storage means is used for the one-pass printing operation in one scanning direction using each of the ejection nozzles. Print data generating means for extracting and outputting the image data, and storing the one-pass image data output from the print data generating means in the second storage means, and based on the stored one-pass image data, A print control unit that drives a printer engine to print an image on a print medium, wherein the print data generation unit includes: The number of nozzles used in the printing operation is changed based on the accumulated amount of image data for one pass stored in the second storage unit, and the number of nozzles used for the printing operation in one scanning direction using the changed number of nozzles is changed. A printing control device, comprising: a change unit for extracting and outputting image data of minutes. 2. The print control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print control unit performs one pass of printing operation in one scanning direction using each discharge nozzle stored in the second storage unit. A print processing status calculation unit that calculates the storage amount of the image data and outputs the storage data indicating whether or not the storage amount reaches a predetermined storage amount to the change unit as a print processing status; The number of nozzles used for the printing operation is reduced based on the printing processing status that has not reached the first position, and the image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation in one scanning direction using the reduced number of nozzles is stored in the first storage. A printing control device characterized by extracting and outputting from a means. 3. The print control device according to claim 2, wherein the print data generation unit and the print control unit exchange data via a wireless communication unit, and the first data is transmitted and received by the change unit. The image data for one pass, which is extracted from the storage means and is used for a printing operation in one scanning direction, is stored in the second storage means via the wireless communication means, and the print processing status from the print processing status calculation means is A print control device which is output to the change unit via a wireless communication unit. 4. The print control device according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined storage amount in one pass of image data stored in the second storage unit and used for a printing operation in one scanning direction is: One pass of image data used for a printing operation in one scanning direction using all nozzles is
A print control device, which is a storage amount for determining whether or not the print data is stored in a second storage unit before a printing operation is started based on image data for a pass. 5. The print control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print data creating unit uses one of the ejection nozzles stored in the second storage unit to perform a printing operation in one scanning direction. A print processing status calculating unit that calculates the storage amount of the image data of the image data and outputs the storage data as to whether or not the storage amount reaches a predetermined storage amount as the print processing status to the change unit; The number of nozzles used for the printing operation is reduced based on the print processing status that has not reached the number of nozzles, and the image data for one pass to be used for the printing operation in one scanning direction using the reduced number of nozzles is converted to the first image data. A print control device, wherein the print control device is extracted from a storage unit and output. 6. The print control device according to claim 5, wherein the print data generation unit and the print control unit exchange data via a wireless communication unit, and the first data is transmitted and received by the change unit. A print control device, wherein image data for one pass, which is extracted from a storage unit and is used for a printing operation in one scanning direction, is stored in the second storage unit via the wireless communication unit. 7. The print control device according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined storage amount in one-pass image data stored in the second storage means and used for a printing operation in one scanning direction is: One pass of image data used for a printing operation in one scanning direction using all nozzles
A print control device, which is a storage amount for determining whether or not the print operation is to be stored in a second storage unit before a print operation is started based on image data for a pass. 8. A printer engine for moving a recording head having a large number of ejection nozzles in the sub-scanning direction at a constant speed in the main scanning direction and driving each ejection nozzle to eject ink droplets, and develops image information into an image. Storing the obtained image data in a first storage means, and subjecting the image image data stored in the first storage means to a printing operation in one scanning direction using each of the ejection nozzles.
Print data generating means for extracting and outputting the image data for one pass, and storing the data for one pass output from the print data generating means in the second storage means, and storing the stored image data for one pass A print control unit for driving the printer engine to print an image on a print medium based on the print data, wherein a storage amount of image data for one pass stored in the second storage unit A print processing amount of a print medium printed on the print medium is adjusted according to the change. 9. The printing method according to claim 8, wherein the number of nozzles used for a printing operation is changed in accordance with a change in the amount of accumulated image data for one pass. A printing method of a printing control device, wherein image data for one pass to be used for a printing operation in one scanning direction using a nozzle is extracted and output. 10. The printing method according to claim 8, wherein when a storage amount of the image data is reduced to a predetermined amount, a print processing amount to be printed on the print medium is reduced. A printing method for a printing apparatus, comprising: 11. The printing method according to claim 10, wherein when the storage amount of the image data is reduced to a predetermined amount, the number of nozzles used in a printing operation is reduced, and the number is reduced. A printing method for a printing control apparatus, wherein one pass of image data to be used for a printing operation in one scanning direction using a number of nozzles is extracted and output. 12. A printer engine which moves a recording head having a large number of ejection nozzles in the sub-scanning direction at a constant speed in the main scanning direction and drives each ejection nozzle to eject ink droplets, and uses the ejection nozzle. Print control for storing image data for one pass for performing a printing operation in one scanning direction in a storage means, and driving the printer engine based on the stored one-pass image data to print an image on a print medium. The printing control means includes a printing processing status calculating means for outputting a printing processing status at that time based on an accumulation amount of image data for one pass stored in the storage means. A printing device characterized by the above-mentioned. 13. The printing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the print data generating means includes a wireless communication means, and image data for one pass is received via the wireless communication means and stored in the storage means. A printing device characterized by the above-mentioned. 14. A plurality of ejection nozzles for ejecting ink droplets from the image data stored in the first storage means, wherein the image data obtained by developing the image information is stored in the first storage means. A function of extracting one pass of image data for performing the used printing operation in one scanning direction and storing the extracted data in the second storage unit; and storing one pass of the image data stored in the second storage unit. A function of judging a printing process status based on the amount, and a one-pass for changing the number of nozzles used for a printing operation based on the printing process status and performing a printing operation in one scanning direction using the changed number of nozzles A function of extracting image data of a minute from image data stored in the first storage unit and outputting the extracted image data to the storage unit. 15. A plurality of ejection nozzles for ejecting ink droplets from image data obtained by developing image information into an image and storing the image data in a first storage means, and storing the image data in the first storage means. A program for extracting one pass of image data for performing the used one-scan direction printing operation and storing the extracted data in the second storage unit; and storing one pass of the image data stored in the second storage unit. A program for determining a printing process status based on an amount, and a one-pass for changing the number of nozzles used for a printing operation based on the printing process status and performing a printing operation in one scanning direction using the changed number of nozzles A program for extracting image data of a minute from image data stored in the first storage means and outputting the extracted data to the storage means. .