JP2004130740A - Printer - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize a printer exhibiting high customizability. <P>SOLUTION: In the printer comprising an image processing means, and a plurality of movable print heads and printing an image processed by the image processing means onto a body to be printed by ejecting ink from the print heads, the image processing means is provided for each print head group when the plurality of print heads are divided into two or more print head groups, and a temperature detecting means is provided for each print head group. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a printing device. In particular, it has an image processing unit for processing an image, and a plurality of movable print heads, and discharges ink from the print head to print the image processed by the image processing unit on a printing medium. Related to a printing device.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, as a computer output device, a color inkjet printer of a type in which several colors of ink are ejected from a print head to form ink dots on printing paper has been widely used. Also, recently, a relatively large-sized color inkjet printer that prints on printing paper such as roll paper using a plurality of printing heads has been realized (for example, see Patent Document 1). Such a color ink jet printer includes an image processing unit for processing an image, and a plurality of movable print heads, and ejects ink from the print head to process the image processed by the image processing unit. Is printed on printing paper. On the other hand, a color inkjet printer is provided with a temperature detecting means. For example, in accordance with the output of the temperature detection unit, the control unit controls the ejection of ink by the print head or controls the amount of cleaning of the print head.
[0003]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2000-158735 A
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, the above-described color inkjet printer having a plurality of print heads can be expected to have higher customizability by having a plurality of print heads than a color inkjet printer having a single print head. For example, when some of the print heads cannot be used due to a failure or the like, printing can be performed only with other print heads, or when a plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups, There is a possibility that customization such as printing a plurality of mutually independent images for each group can be easily realized. Providing an image processing means for each print head group when a plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups is an effective means for realizing a highly customizable color inkjet printer. .
However, in such a situation, if there are only a plurality of print heads and only one temperature detecting means, it becomes difficult to easily realize the customization.
[0005]
The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to realize a printing apparatus with high customizability.
[0006]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
A main aspect of the present invention includes an image processing unit for processing an image, and a plurality of movable print heads, and ejects ink from the print head to print an image processed by the image processing unit on a printing medium. A printing apparatus for printing the plurality of print heads into two or more print head groups, the image processing means for each of the print head groups, and a temperature detection means for each of the print head groups Is a printing apparatus characterized by having the following.
Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the present specification and the accompanying drawings.
[0007]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
At least the following matters will be made clear by the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings.
A printing apparatus that has an image processing unit for processing an image and a plurality of movable print heads, discharges ink from the print head, and prints the image processed by the image processing unit on a printing medium Wherein the plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups, the image processing means for each of the print head groups, and the temperature detection means is provided for each of the print head groups. Characteristic printing device.
Customized by having the image processing means for each print head group when the plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups, and providing a temperature detecting means for each print head group It is possible to realize a printing device having high reliability.
[0008]
Further, the print head group may form a unitized print head unit, and the print head unit may include a temperature detecting unit for detecting a temperature in the print head unit.
With this configuration, various controls can be appropriately performed according to the temperature in the print head.
[0009]
Further, two or more of the image processing units may be individually unitized, and the unitized image processing units may be detachable from the printing apparatus main body.
With this configuration, the number of image processing units to be used can be easily adjusted according to a user's request related to printing, such as the size of an image to be printed and the printing speed, and the customization is improved. Become.
[0010]
Further, an ink ejection control unit for controlling the ejection of ink by the print head may be provided for each of the print head groups.
This makes it possible to more effectively exhibit the high customizability due to the plurality of print heads.
[0011]
Further, two or more of the ink discharge control means may be individually unitized, and the unitized ink discharge control means may be detachable from a printing apparatus main body.
This makes it possible to easily adjust the number of ink ejection control means to be used in accordance with a user's request related to printing, such as the size of an image to be printed, the printing speed, and the like. Get higher.
[0012]
Further, in accordance with an output of the temperature detecting means, the ink discharge control means may control ink discharge by a print head provided in a print head unit provided with the temperature detecting means.
By doing so, it is possible to ensure the formation of high-level image quality.
[0013]
Further, when the output of the temperature detecting means exceeds a predetermined value, the discharge of the ink by the print head provided in the print head unit provided with the temperature detecting means may be stopped.
With this configuration, it is possible to appropriately prevent damage to the device due to a rise in temperature.
[0014]
Further, the temperature detecting means may be provided in the print head.
In this way, the temperature of the print head can be accurately grasped.
[0015]
Further, the temperature detection means may be provided vertically above the print head unit.
This makes it possible to obtain a temperature output under the worst situation.
[0016]
In addition, among the plurality of print heads, a print head having a high ink discharge speed from the print head is disposed vertically above the printing apparatus, and a print head having a low ink discharge speed from the print head is It may be arranged below the printing device in the vertical direction.
In this way, the formation of high-level image quality can be more appropriately ensured.
[0017]
A cleaning unit for cleaning the print head; and a cleaning control unit for controlling the cleaning unit, wherein the cleaning unit cleans the print head according to an output of the temperature detection unit. The amount may be controlled by the cleaning control means.
This makes it possible to perform appropriate cleaning of the print head in accordance with a change in temperature.
[0018]
Further, the unitized ink ejection control unit may include a second temperature detection unit for detecting a temperature in the ink ejection control unit.
This makes it possible to appropriately perform various controls according to the temperature in the ink ejection control unit.
[0019]
Further, the ink ejection control means may control the ejection of the ink according to the output of the second temperature detection means.
Even in such a case, it is possible to maintain the above-described effect, that is, the effect that the formation of high-level image quality can be ensured.
[0020]
A cleaning unit configured to clean the print head; and a cleaning control unit configured to control the cleaning unit. The print head is controlled by the cleaning unit according to an output of the second temperature detection unit. May be controlled by the cleaning control means.
Even in such a case, the above-described effect, that is, the effect that the print head can be appropriately cleaned according to a change in temperature can be maintained.
[0021]
An image processing unit for processing the image; and a plurality of movable print heads. The ink is ejected from the print head, and the image processed by the image processing unit is printed on a printing medium. In the printing apparatus, having the image processing means for each print head group when the plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups, and providing a temperature detection means for each print head group, The print head group forms a unitized print head unit, the print head unit has a temperature detection unit for detecting a temperature in the print head unit, and two or more image processing units are individually provided. The image processing means, which is unitized, is detachable with respect to a printing apparatus main body, and controls ink ejection by the print head. A step for each of the print head groups, two or more of the ink discharge control means are individually unitized, and the unitized ink discharge control means is detachable from a printing apparatus main body; In accordance with the output of the temperature detection means, the ink discharge control means controls the discharge of ink by the print head of the print head unit provided with the temperature detection means, and the output of the temperature detection means exceeds a predetermined value. In this case, the discharge of the ink by the print head included in the print head unit provided with the temperature detection unit is stopped, the temperature detection unit is provided in the print head, and the temperature detection unit is provided with the print head. The print head, which is provided on the upper side in the vertical direction of the unit and has a high ejection speed of the ink from the print head among the plurality of print heads, is the print head. The print head, which is disposed vertically above the printer, and has a low ink ejection speed from the print head, is disposed vertically below the printing apparatus, and a cleaning unit for cleaning the print head. Cleaning control means for controlling the cleaning means, wherein a cleaning amount of the print head by the cleaning means is controlled by the cleaning control means in accordance with an output of the temperature detecting means. A printing device that performs the printing is also feasible.
By doing so, most of the effects described above are achieved, and the object of the present invention is most effectively achieved.
[0022]
=== Schematic example of printing device ===
1 and 2 are perspective views schematically showing a color inkjet printer 20 as an example of a printing apparatus. The color printer 20 is compatible with relatively large printing paper such as roll paper or JIS standard A row 0 paper or B row 0 paper. In the example of FIGS. 20 is provided with roll paper. Note that the color ink jet printer 20 shown in FIG. 1 and the color ink jet printer 20 shown in FIG.
[0023]
The color inkjet printer 20 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a paper feed motor 31 and a smap which is driven by the paper feed motor 31 and feeds a roll paper P as a printing medium in a paper feed direction (hereinafter also referred to as a sub-scanning direction). A roller 24, a roll paper holder 27 on which the roll paper P can be set, a paper holding roller 29 for pressing the roll paper P against the smap roller 24, a platen 26 capable of supporting the roll paper P, and a number of nozzles , A carriage 28 having a plurality of print heads 36 and movable in the main scanning direction, a carriage motor 30, a traction belt 32 driven by the carriage motor 30 to move the carriage 28, and a carriage 28. And a guide rail 34 for guiding.
[0024]
The roll paper P is set in the roll paper holder 27. The roll paper P is pressed by the smap roller 24 by the paper pressing roller 29, and is sent in the paper feed direction on the surface of the platen 26 by the rotation of the smap roller 24. The carriage 28 is pulled by a pulling belt 32 driven by a carriage motor 30 and moves along a guide rail 34 in the main scanning direction. The carriage 28 is moved in the main scanning direction while the roll paper P is fed in the paper feed direction, and printing is performed by discharging ink from a plurality of print heads 36 provided on the carriage 28.
[0025]
Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the color inkjet printer 20 has a plurality of cleaning mechanisms 11 as an example of a cleaning unit for cleaning the print head 36. Details of the cleaning mechanism 11 will be described later.
[0026]
=== Configuration of Print Head and Cleaning Mechanism of Print Head ===
Next, the configuration of the print head 36 and the cleaning mechanism 11 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the print head 36. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the cleaning mechanism 11.
As shown in FIG. 3, the print head 36 includes a black nozzle row, a cyan nozzle row, a light cyan nozzle row, a magenta nozzle row, a light magenta nozzle row, and a yellow nozzle row which are respectively arranged on a straight line along the sub-scanning direction. have.
[0027]
The black nozzle row has 180 nozzles # 1 to # 180. The nozzles # 1,..., # 180 of the black nozzle row are arranged at a constant nozzle pitch kD along the sub-scanning direction. Here, D is the dot pitch in the sub-scanning direction, and k is an integer. The dot pitch D in the sub-scanning direction is equal to the pitch of the main scanning line (raster line). Hereinafter, the integer k representing the nozzle pitch k · D is simply referred to as “nozzle pitch k”. In the example of FIG. 3, the nozzle pitch k is 4 dots. However, the nozzle pitch k can be set to an arbitrary integer.
[0028]
The same applies to the cyan nozzle row, light cyan nozzle row, magenta nozzle row, light magenta nozzle row, and yellow nozzle row. That is, each nozzle row has 180 nozzles # 1 to # 180, and is arranged at a constant nozzle pitch kD along the sub-scanning direction.
[0029]
During printing, ink droplets are ejected from each nozzle while the print head 36 moves at a constant speed in the main scanning direction together with the carriage 28. However, depending on the printing method, not all nozzles are always used, and only some of them may be used.
[0030]
In FIG. 3, the ink colors of each row are, from the left side of the drawing, a black nozzle row, a cyan nozzle row, a light cyan nozzle row, a magenta nozzle row, a light magenta nozzle row, and a yellow nozzle row, but are not limited thereto. Instead, the ink colors in each row may be arranged in another arrangement order.
[0031]
Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the print head 36 is provided with a temperature sensor 40 as an example of a temperature detecting unit. As is clear from these drawings, the temperature sensor 40 is provided vertically above the print head.
[0032]
As shown in FIG. 4, the cleaning mechanism 11 includes a head cap 210, hoses 220a, 220b, 220c, and pump rollers 230a, 230b, 230c. In FIG. 4, the hoses 220a and 220c are shown only halfway, and the pump rollers 230a and 230c are not shown. However, their configuration and operation will be described using the hose 220b and the pump roller 230b that function similarly. , Duplicate descriptions are omitted. The internal space of the head cap 210 is partitioned into three suction chambers Va, Vb, and Vc as shown in FIG. When the head cap 210 is raised, the head cap 210 comes into close contact with the lower surface of the print head 36, the suction chamber Va is connected to the black nozzle row and the cyan nozzle row, the suction chamber Vb is connected to the light cyan nozzle row and the magenta nozzle row, and the suction chamber Vc is A closed space that covers the light magenta nozzle row and the yellow nozzle row is formed. The hoses 220a, 220b, 220c are connected to the suction chambers Va, Vb, Vc, respectively.
[0033]
The pump roller 230b has two small rollers 232, 234 near the peripheral edge. A hose 220b is wound around these two rollers 232 and 234. When the pump roller 230b rotates in the direction of the arrow driven by the cleaning motor (not shown), the air in the hose 220b is pushed by the small rollers 232 and 242, whereby the closed space in the head cap 210 is exhausted. As a result, ink is sucked from each nozzle of the print head 36 and discharged to a waste ink discharge unit (not shown) via the hose 220b.
[0034]
When the cleaning mechanism 11 is not operating, the head cap 210 functions as a protection unit for protecting the print head.
[0035]
=== Example of Overall Configuration of Printing System ===
Next, an example of the overall configuration of the printing system will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system including the above-described color inkjet printer 20. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image processing unit 38.
[0036]
This printing system includes a computer 90 and a color inkjet printer 20 as an example of a printing device. Note that a printing system including the color inkjet printer 20 and the computer 90 can also be referred to as a “printing device” in a broad sense. Although not shown, the computer 90, the color inkjet printer 20, a display device such as a CRT 21 and a liquid crystal display device, an input device such as a keyboard and a mouse, and a drive device such as a flexible drive device and a CD-ROM drive device. , A printing system has been constructed.
[0037]
In the computer 90, an application program 95 operates under a predetermined operating system. A video driver 91 is incorporated in the operating system, and an application program 95 for performing image retouching and the like performs desired processing on an image to be processed, and outputs an image to the CRT 21 via the video driver 91. it's shown.
[0038]
When the application program 95 issues a print command, the image processing unit 38 as an example of image processing means provided in the color inkjet printer 20 receives image data from the application program 95 and converts it into print data PD. As shown in FIG. 6, inside the image processing unit 38, a resolution conversion module 97, a color conversion module 98, a halftone module 99, a rasterizer 100, a UI printer interface module 102, a color conversion lookup table An LUT, a buffer memory 50, and an image buffer 52 are provided.
[0039]
The resolution conversion module 97 plays a role of converting the resolution of the color image data formed by the application program 95 into a print resolution. The image data whose resolution has been converted in this way is still image information composed of three color components of RGB. The color conversion module 98 converts the RGB image data into multi-tone data of a plurality of ink colors that can be used by the color inkjet printer 20 for each pixel while referring to the color conversion lookup table LUT.
[0040]
The color-converted multi-tone data has, for example, 256 tone values. The halftone module 99 generates a halftone image data by executing a so-called halftone process. The halftone image data is rearranged in a desired data order by the rasterizer 100, and output to the buffer memory 50 together with various commands COM as final print data PD. The print data PD includes raster data indicating the dot formation state during each main scan, and data indicating the sub-scan feed amount.
[0041]
On the other hand, the user interface display module 101 provided in the computer 90 has a function of displaying various user interface windows related to printing, and a function of receiving a user's input in those windows. For example, the user can instruct the user interface display module 101 such as the type and size of the print paper and the cleaning of the print head.
[0042]
Further, the UI printer interface module 102 has a function of providing an interface between the user interface display module 101 and the color inkjet printer 20. The command interprets the command specified by the user through the user interface and transmits various commands COM to the buffer memory 50, and conversely interprets the command COM received from the buffer memory 50 and performs various displays on the user interface. . For example, the instruction regarding the type and size of the print paper and the cleaning of the print head received by the user interface display module 101 is sent to the UI printer interface module 102, and the UI printer interface module 102 executes the instructed instruction. The command COM is interpreted and transmitted to the buffer memory 50.
[0043]
The print data PD and various commands COM output by the rasterizer 100 and the command COM output by the UI printer interface module 102 are temporarily stored in the buffer memory 50. The color inkjet printer 20 transmits these to the image buffer 52 or the system controller 54 after receiving them by the buffer memory 50. The image buffer 52 stores print data PD of a plurality of color components received by the buffer memory 50.
[0044]
The color inkjet printer 20 includes, in addition to the image processing unit 38 described above, a system controller 54 that controls the operation of the entire color inkjet printer 20, a main memory 56, and an EEPROM 58. The system controller 54 further includes a main scanning drive circuit 61 for driving the carriage motor 30, a sub-scanning drive circuit 62 for driving the paper feed motor 31, and a head as an example of an ink ejection control unit for controlling the print head 36. The control unit 63, the cleaning mechanism control circuit 13 as an example of a cleaning control unit, and the above-described temperature sensor 40 are connected.
[0045]
In the color inkjet printer 20, the system controller 54 reads necessary information from the print data from the buffer memory 50, and based on the read information, sends the information to the main scanning drive circuit 61, the sub-scanning drive circuit 62, the head control unit 63, and the like. Send a control signal to it. Further, the head control unit 63 reads the print data of each color component from the image buffer 52 according to a control signal from the system controller 54, and drives the nozzles of each color provided on the print head 36 in accordance with the read data. Further, the cleaning mechanism control circuit 13 controls the above-described cleaning mechanism 11 to execute cleaning of the print head. Further, the temperature sensor 40 detects a temperature inside the print head unit 65, which will be described later, and outputs information on the detected temperature to the system controller 54.
[0046]
By the way, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 5, the above-described color inkjet printer 20 has a plurality of print heads. When the plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more groups, the group is referred to as a print head group 69. For example, in the present embodiment, the number of the print heads 36 is eight, and four print head groups 69 obtained by combining two of them are provided, that is, a first print head group 69a and a second print head group 69b. , A third print head group 69c, and a fourth print head group 69d. As shown in FIG. 5, each print head group 69 includes a unitized print head unit 65, that is, a first print head unit 65a, a second print head unit 65b, a third print head unit 65c, and a fourth print head unit 65c. And a print head unit 65d, and each print head unit 65 is configured to be detachable from the printer main body. Further, each print head unit 65 includes an ink tank 67 as an example of an ink storage unit for storing ink supplied to the print head 36 provided in the print head unit 65.
[0047]
In the present embodiment, the first print head unit 65a, the second print head unit 65b, the third print head unit 65c, and the fourth print head unit 65d are respectively a first temperature sensor 40a and a second temperature sensor 40b. , A third temperature sensor 40c and a fourth temperature sensor 40d. Each temperature sensor 40 detects the temperature in the corresponding print head unit 65. In this example, the first temperature sensor 40a is connected to the print head 36a of the two print heads 36a and 36b provided in the first print head unit 65a, and the second temperature sensor 40b is connected to the second print head unit 65b. Of the two print heads 36c and 36d, the third temperature sensor 40c is connected to the print head 36e of the two print heads 36e and 36f provided in the third print head unit 65c. On the other hand, the fourth temperature sensor 40d is provided in the print head 36h of the two print heads 36g and 36h provided in the fourth print head unit 65a.
[0048]
Further, the color inkjet printer 20 also has the above-described head control unit 63 for each of the print head groups 69. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the first head control unit 63a corresponding to the first print head group 69a, the second head control unit 63b corresponding to the second print head group 69b, and the third print head group 69c are supported. A fourth head control unit 63d corresponding to the third head control unit 63c and the fourth print head group 69d is provided. The respective head control units 63 are individually unitized, and the unitized head control units 63 are configured to be detachable from the printer main body.
[0049]
Similarly, the color inkjet printer 20 also has the above-described image processing unit 38 for each print head group 69. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the first image processing unit 38a corresponding to the first print head group 69a, the second image processing unit 38b corresponding to the second print head group 69b, and the third print head group 69c are supported. A third image processing unit 38c corresponding to the third image processing unit 38c and the fourth print head group 69d is provided. Each image processing unit 38 is individually unitized, and the unitized image processing unit 38 is configured to be detachable from the printer main body.
[0050]
The plurality of cleaning mechanisms 11 form two or more cleaning units 15 unitized for each print head group 69. That is, the cleaning mechanisms 11 are provided corresponding to the respective print heads 36, and the number is eight in the present embodiment. Then, the four cleaning mechanisms 11 each of which corresponds to the print head group 69 described above are combined into two, and the cleaning units 15 are unitized, that is, the first cleaning unit 15a, the second cleaning unit 15b, The third cleaning unit 15c and the fourth cleaning unit 15d are formed. Each cleaning unit 15 is configured to be detachable from the printer main body.
[0051]
Next, the operation of the above-described printing system will be described. First, the user instructs the type and size of printing paper on the user interface display module 101. Further, in the user interface display module 101, it is possible to instruct to print a plurality of images for each of the print head groups 69. In the present embodiment, four images are printed for each of the four print head groups 69. That is, the first image is printed using the print heads 36 belonging to the first print head group 69a, the second image is printed using the print heads 36 belonging to the second print head group 69b, and the print heads belonging to the third print head group 69c are printed. Is instructed to print the third image, and to print the fourth image using the print heads belonging to the fourth print head group 69d. These instructions received by the user interface display module 101 are sent to the UI printer interface module 102 provided in the above-described four image processing units 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, and the UI printer interface module 102 receives the instruction. The command COM is interpreted and the command COM is transmitted to the buffer memory 50.
[0052]
Next, the user gives an instruction to perform printing in the application program 95 or the like. When the application program 95 that has received this instruction issues a print command, the above-described four image processing units 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d receive the image data of the four images from the application program 95, respectively, and send these print data. After the conversion into the PD, it is transmitted to the buffer memory 50 together with various commands COM. Each of the image processing units 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d transmits the print data PD corresponding to the first, second, third, and fourth images to the image buffer 52 after being received by the buffer memory 50. .
[0053]
Further, each of the image processing units 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d transmits the above-mentioned command COM to the system controller 54 after being received by the buffer memory 50. The system controller 54, based on the information received from the buffer memory 50 in each of the image processing units 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, has a main scan drive circuit 61, a sub scan drive circuit 62, and the four heads described above. A control signal is sent to the control units 63a, 63b, 63c, 63d.
[0054]
Further, each of the head control units 63a, 63b, 63c, and 63d is controlled by an image buffer 52 in an image processing unit 38a, 38b, 38c, or 38d corresponding to each head control unit 63 according to a control signal from the system controller 54. Read the print data of each color component. Then, each of the head control units 63a, 63b, 63c, 63d controls the print heads 36 belonging to each of the corresponding print head groups 69a, 69b, 69c, 69d according to the read data.
[0055]
The main scanning drive circuit 61 controls the carriage motor 30 to control the carriage motor 30 to move the carriage 28 in the main scanning direction while controlling the paper feed motor 31 by the sub-scanning drive circuit 62 to feed the roll paper P. The ink is ejected from the print head 36 controlled by the print head control units 63a, 63b, 63c, and 63d to perform printing on the roll paper P.
[0056]
During the execution of the above procedure, the temperature sensor 40 detects the temperature in the print head unit 65 as needed, and outputs information related to the detected temperature to the system controller 54. Then, in accordance with the output, the system controller 54 controls the ejection of ink by the print head 36 included in the print head unit 65 provided with the temperature sensor 40 that has performed the output by the above-described head control unit 63. In the present embodiment, when the output of the temperature sensor exceeds a predetermined value, that is, when the temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature, the print head unit 65 provided with the temperature sensor 40 that performs the output is provided. The ejection of the ink by the print head 36 is stopped in order to prevent damage to devices in the print head unit.
[0057]
For example, when the output of the temperature sensor 40b among the four temperature sensors 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d described above exceeds a predetermined value, the print head 36c included in the print head unit 65b is controlled by the head control unit 63b. In addition, the ejection of the ink by the print head 36d is stopped. As a result of this operation, the printing of the second image on the roll paper P is stopped.
[0058]
Next, the operation of the printing system when cleaning the print head 36 will be described. First, the user instructs the user interface display module 101 to perform cleaning and the print head 36 to perform cleaning. These instructions received by the user interface display module 101 correspond to the image processing units corresponding to the print head group 69 including the print head 36 to be cleaned among the four image processing units 38a, 38b, 38c and 38d described above. 38. Here, the image processing unit is referred to as a first image processing unit 38a.
[0059]
The first image processing unit 38a receives the instruction at the UI printer interface module 102, and the UI printer interface module 102 interprets the instructed instruction and transmits the command COM to the buffer memory 50. Further, the first image processing unit 38a transmits the above-mentioned command COM to the system controller 54 after being received by the buffer memory 50.
The system controller 54 sends a control signal to the cleaning mechanism control circuit 13 based on the information received from the buffer memory 50 in the image processing unit 38a.
[0060]
Then, the cleaning mechanism 11 provided in the first cleaning unit 15a is controlled by the cleaning mechanism control circuit 13, and the cleaning of the print head 36 provided in the first print head unit 65a is performed by the method described above.
[0061]
In addition, even during the execution of the above procedure, the temperature sensor 40 detects the temperature in the print head unit 65 as needed, and outputs information on the detected temperature to the system controller 54. Then, the system controller 54 controls the cleaning amount of the print head 36 by the cleaning mechanism 11 by the cleaning mechanism control circuit 13 according to the output. In the present embodiment, the number of times of cleaning of the print head 36 by the cleaning mechanism 11 is controlled and changed by the cleaning mechanism control circuit 13 in accordance with the output of the temperature sensor.
[0062]
Since the viscosity of the ink changes in accordance with the change in the temperature, the above-described method of setting the optimum number of times of cleaning for the changed viscosity is effective. From such a viewpoint, instead of changing the number of times of cleaning, the force for sucking ink during cleaning may be changed.
[0063]
Thus, by having the image processing unit for each print head group when a plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups, and by providing a temperature sensor for each print head group Thus, a highly customizable color inkjet printer can be realized.
[0064]
That is, as described in the section of the problem to be solved by the invention, the above-described color inkjet printer having a plurality of print heads has more print heads than the color inkjet printer having a single print head. High customizability can be expected. For example, when some of the print heads cannot be used due to a failure or the like, printing can be performed only with other print heads, or when a plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups, There is a possibility that customization such as printing a plurality of mutually independent images for each group can be easily realized. Providing an image processing means for each print head group when a plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups is an effective means for realizing a highly customizable color inkjet printer. .
[0065]
However, in such a situation, if there are only a plurality of print heads and only one temperature detecting means, it becomes difficult to easily realize the customization.
Therefore, as described above, the image processing unit is provided for each print head group when a plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups, and a temperature sensor is provided for each print head group. I do.
In this way, for example, when some print heads cannot be used due to a failure or the like and printing can be performed only with other print heads, the print head group to which the other print heads belong can be used. Since the temperature can be detected by the temperature sensor and various controls can be performed in accordance with the temperature, the customizability of the color inkjet printer can be appropriately secured.
[0066]
Further, when a plurality of print head groups are grouped into two or more print head groups, and a plurality of independent images are printed for each of the print head groups, the temperature is determined by a temperature sensor corresponding to each print head group. Since various kinds of control can be performed according to the detected temperature, the customizability of the color inkjet printer can be appropriately secured.
Therefore, a highly customizable color inkjet printer can be realized as described above.
[0067]
In the above description, the number of print heads is eight, but the number of print heads is not limited thereto, and any number of print heads may be used.
Further, in the above description, the eight print heads are divided into four print head groups each two, but the present invention is not limited to this division. For example, dividing eight print heads into three print head groups, two of these print head groups each having three print heads, and the other one having two print heads You may have. Further, the print head group may have one print head.
[0068]
In the above description, four images are printed for each of the four print head groups. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, one image is printed using the four print head groups. It may be.
[0069]
In the above description, the image processing unit shown in FIG. 6 has been described as an example of the image processing means. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the image processing unit sends print data to the head control unit 63. Alternatively, any device that processes an image output from an application or the like may be used. For example, it is not always necessary to refer to a color conversion table when performing color conversion by the color conversion module 98, and it is not always necessary to execute halftone processing when performing image processing. Further, the image processing means does not have to include a function related to the user interface such as the UI printer interface module 102.
[0070]
=== Other Embodiments ===
As described above, the printing apparatus and the like according to the present invention have been described based on one embodiment. However, the above-described embodiment of the present invention is for facilitating understanding of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the present invention. Absent. The present invention can be modified and improved without departing from the gist of the present invention, and the present invention naturally includes equivalents thereof.
[0071]
In the above embodiment, the printing medium is described as an example of the printing medium, but a film, a cloth, a thin metal plate, or the like may be used as the printing medium. Also, the roll paper has been described as an example of the printing paper. However, as the printing paper, a paper in column A, a paper in column B, or the like may be used.
[0072]
Further, in the above-described embodiment, a color ink jet printer has been described.
[0073]
In the above embodiment, the print head group forms a unitized print head unit, and the print head unit has a temperature sensor for detecting a temperature in the print head unit. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the temperature sensor may be provided elsewhere in the color inkjet printer.
However, in such a case, the above embodiment is more preferable in that various controls can be appropriately performed according to the temperature in the print head.
[0074]
Further, in the above embodiment, two or more image processing units are individually unitized, and the unitized image processing units are detachable from the printer main body. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Not something.
However, in such a case, the number of image processing units to be used can be easily adjusted according to a user's request related to printing, such as the size of an image to be printed and the printing speed. The above-described embodiment is more desirable in terms of the height.
[0075]
Further, in the above embodiment, the head control unit for controlling the ejection of the ink by the print head is provided for each of the print head groups. However, the present invention is not limited to this.
However, the above-described embodiment is more preferable in that the above configuration makes it possible to more effectively exhibit high customizability due to the presence of a plurality of print heads.
[0076]
In the above-described embodiment, two or more head control units are individually unitized, and the unitized head control units are detachable from the printer main body. However, the present invention is not limited to this. is not.
However, in such a case, the number of head control units to be used can be easily adjusted according to a user's request related to printing, such as the size of an image to be printed and the printing speed. The above-described embodiment is more desirable in terms of the height.
[0077]
Further, in the above embodiment, the ejection of ink by the print head provided in the print head unit provided with the temperature sensor is controlled by the head control unit in accordance with the output of the temperature sensor. It is not done. For example, another device, for example, an image processing unit corresponding to a print head unit provided with the temperature sensor may be controlled in accordance with the output of the temperature sensor.
However, in such a case, the above-described embodiment is more preferable in that the formation of high-level image quality can be ensured by appropriate ink ejection.
[0078]
In the above embodiment, the output of the temperature sensor is used as an example in which the head control unit controls the ejection of ink by the print head provided in the print head unit provided with the temperature sensor in accordance with the output of the temperature sensor. In the case where the temperature exceeds the predetermined value, the example in which the ejection of the ink by the print head included in the print head unit provided with the temperature sensor is stopped has been described, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, by changing the drive waveform used to drive the print head in accordance with the output of the temperature sensor, control may be performed so that the ink ejection amount is constant irrespective of a change in ink viscosity due to a temperature change. .
However, the above-described embodiment is more preferable in that damage to the device due to a rise in temperature can be appropriately prevented.
[0079]
Further, in the above embodiment, the temperature sensor is provided in the print head, but the temperature sensor is not limited to this.
However, in such a case, the above embodiment is more preferable in that the temperature of the print head can be accurately grasped.
[0080]
Further, in the above embodiment, the temperature sensor is provided on the upper side in the vertical direction of the print head unit, but the temperature sensor is not limited to this. For example, the temperature sensor may be provided at the vertical center or lower side of the print head unit.
However, the heat generated in the print head unit, due to its nature, rises upward in the vertical direction, so that it is possible to obtain a temperature output under the worst conditions. desirable.
[0081]
Further, among the plurality of print heads, a print head having a high ink discharge speed from the print head is disposed vertically above the color inkjet printer, and a print head having a low ink discharge speed from the print head. May be arranged vertically below the color inkjet printer.
[0082]
The print head varies among individuals, and there are a print head having a high speed and a slow print speed. On the other hand, as described above, since the heat rises in the vertical direction due to its nature, the temperature tends to be higher at the upper side in the vertical direction of the color inkjet printer than at the lower side in the vertical direction of the color inkjet printer. is there. In addition, the viscosity of the ink decreases as the temperature increases, and the ejection speed of the low-viscosity ink is lower than that of the high-viscosity ink.
[0083]
Therefore, by arranging a print head having a high ink discharge speed in the vertical direction above the color inkjet printer and arranging a print head having a low ink discharge speed in the vertical direction below the color ink jet printer, The inconvenience that the ejection speeds of the ink ejected from the head are different from each other can be reduced.
Then, in combination with this measure and the above-mentioned measure, that is, controlling the discharge of ink in accordance with the output of the temperature sensor, appropriate ink discharge is performed, and as a result, a high level of image quality is achieved. Can be more appropriately secured.
[0084]
Also, in the above embodiment, the cleaning mechanism for cleaning the print head, and a cleaning mechanism control circuit for controlling the cleaning mechanism, the cleaning mechanism according to the output of the temperature sensor, Although the cleaning amount of the print head is controlled by the cleaning mechanism control circuit, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, another device such as an image processing unit may be controlled according to the output of the temperature sensor.
However, the above embodiment is more preferable in that the print head can be appropriately cleaned in accordance with a change in temperature.
[0085]
In the above-described embodiment, the temperature sensor is provided in the print head unit. However, instead of or in addition to this, a temperature sensor may be provided in the head control unit. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system including the color inkjet printer 20. In such a block diagram, a temperature sensor is provided in the head control unit instead of the print head unit. I have.
In such a case, it is possible to appropriately perform various controls according to the temperature in the head control unit.
[0086]
Further, the ejection of ink may be controlled by the head control unit according to the output of the temperature sensor.
[0087]
Even in such a case, it is possible to maintain the above-described effect, that is, the effect of ensuring formation of a high-level image quality by appropriate ink ejection.
[0088]
Further, the cleaning amount of the print head by the cleaning mechanism may be controlled by the cleaning mechanism control circuit in accordance with the output of the temperature sensor.
Even in such a case, the above-described effect, that is, the effect that the print head can be appropriately cleaned according to a change in temperature can be maintained.
[0089]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, it is possible to realize a printing apparatus with high customizability.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a color inkjet printer 20.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a color inkjet printer 20.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a print head.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a cleaning mechanism 11;
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system including a color inkjet printer 20.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image processing unit 38.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system including a color inkjet printer 20.
[Explanation of symbols]
11 Cleaning Mechanism 13 Cleaning Mechanism Control Circuit
15 Cleaning unit 15a First cleaning unit
15b Second cleaning unit 15c Third cleaning unit
15d Fourth cleaning unit 17 Head cap
20 color inkjet printer 21 CRT
24 Smap roller 26 Platen
27 Roll paper holder 28 Carriage
29 Paper press roller 30 Carriage motor
31 paper feed motor 32 traction belt
34 guide rail 36 print head
38 image processing unit 38a first image processing unit
38b Second image processing unit 38c Third image processing unit
38d fourth image processing unit 40 temperature sensor
40a first temperature sensor 40b second temperature sensor
40c Third temperature sensor 40d Fourth temperature sensor
50 buffer memory 52 image buffer
54 System controller 56 Main memory
58 EEPROM 61 Main scanning drive circuit
62 Sub-scanning drive circuit 63 Head control unit
63a first head control unit 63b second head control unit
63c third head control unit 63d fourth head control unit
65 print head unit 65a first print head unit
65b Second print head unit 65c Third print head unit
65d Fourth print head unit 67 Ink tank
69 print head group 69a first print head group
69b Second print head group 69c Third print head group
69d fourth print head group 90 computer
91 Video driver 95 Application program
97 Resolution conversion module 98 Color conversion module
99 Halftone module 100 Rasterizer
101 User interface display module
102 UI printer interface module
210 Head cap 220a Hose
220b hose 220c hose
230a pump roller 230b pump roller
230c Pump roller 232 Small roller
234 Small Roller COM Command
LUT Color conversion lookup table P Roll paper PD Print data
Va suction chamber Vb suction chamber Vc suction chamber

Claims (15)

Image processing means for processing an image, and having a plurality of movable print heads,
In a printing apparatus that ejects ink from the print head and prints an image processed by the image processing unit on a printing medium,
When the plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups, the image processing unit is provided for each print head group, and a temperature detection unit is provided for each print head group. Printing device. The printing device according to claim 1,
The print head group forms a unitized print head unit,
A printing apparatus, wherein the print head unit has a temperature detecting means for detecting a temperature inside the print head unit. The printing device according to claim 2,
The two or more image processing means are individually unitized,
The printing apparatus, wherein the unitized image processing means is detachable from a printing apparatus main body. The printing device according to claim 2 or 3,
A printing apparatus comprising: an ink discharge control unit for controlling ink discharge by the print head for each of the print head groups. The printing device according to claim 4,
The two or more ink ejection control means are individually unitized,
The printing apparatus, wherein the unitized ink ejection control means is detachable from a printing apparatus main body. The printing device according to claim 4 or 5,
A printing apparatus, wherein the ink discharge control means controls the discharge of ink by a print head included in a print head unit provided with the temperature detection means according to the output of the temperature detection means. The printing device according to claim 6,
A printing apparatus, wherein when the output of the temperature detecting means exceeds a predetermined value, the ejection of ink by a print head included in a print head unit provided with the temperature detecting means is stopped. The printing device according to any one of claims 2 to 7,
The printing apparatus, wherein the temperature detecting means is provided on the print head. The printing device according to any one of claims 2 to 8,
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the temperature detecting unit is provided vertically above the print head unit. The printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
Among the plurality of print heads, a print head having a high ink discharge speed from the print head is disposed vertically above the printing apparatus, and a print head having a low ink discharge speed from the print head is the print head. A printing device, which is disposed vertically below the printing device. The printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
A cleaning unit for cleaning the print head, and a cleaning control unit for controlling the cleaning unit,
A printing apparatus, wherein an amount of cleaning of the print head by the cleaning unit is controlled by the cleaning control unit in accordance with an output of the temperature detection unit. The printing device according to claim 5,
The printing apparatus, wherein the unitized ink ejection control unit has a second temperature detection unit for detecting a temperature in the ink ejection control unit. The printing device according to claim 12,
A printing apparatus, wherein the ejection of ink is controlled by the ink ejection control means according to the output of the second temperature detection means. In the printing device according to claim 12 or 13,
A cleaning unit for cleaning the print head, and a cleaning control unit for controlling the cleaning unit,
A printing apparatus, wherein an amount of cleaning of the print head by the cleaning unit is controlled by the cleaning control unit in accordance with an output of the second temperature detection unit. Image processing means for processing an image, and having a plurality of movable print heads,
In a printing apparatus that ejects ink from the print head and prints an image processed by the image processing unit on a printing medium,
Having the image processing means for each print head group when the plurality of print heads are grouped into two or more print head groups, and providing a temperature detection means for each print head group,
The print head group forms a unitized print head unit,
The print head unit has a temperature detecting unit for detecting a temperature in the print head unit,
The two or more image processing means are individually unitized,
The unitized image processing means is detachable from the printing apparatus main body,
An ink ejection control unit for controlling ejection of ink by the print head, for each of the print head groups,
The two or more ink ejection control means are individually unitized,
The unitized ink ejection control means is detachable from the printing apparatus main body,
In accordance with the output of the temperature detection unit, the ink ejection control unit controls the ejection of ink by a print head included in a print head unit provided with the temperature detection unit,
When the output of the temperature detecting means exceeds a predetermined value, the ejection of ink by the print head included in the print head unit provided with the temperature detecting means is stopped,
The temperature detecting means is provided in the print head,
The temperature detection means is provided vertically above the print head unit,
Among the plurality of print heads, a print head having a high ink discharge speed from the print head is disposed vertically above the printing apparatus, and a print head having a low ink discharge speed from the print head is the print head. It is located vertically below the printing device,
A cleaning unit configured to clean the print head; and a cleaning control unit configured to control the cleaning unit. The cleaning unit controls a cleaning amount of the print head by the cleaning unit according to an output of the temperature detection unit. A printing apparatus controlled by the cleaning control means.

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