JP2006321109A - Printer - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a color ink jet multifunction printer having an ink save mode for enhancing user's convenience while satisfying the print need of diversified trend desiring high speed, high quality printing at a low running cost while suppressing obvious deterioration in print quality. <P>SOLUTION: The color ink jet multifunction printer comprises a print mode control section 15 for converting the print mode of print data inputted from a scanner 21a, an FAX communicating section 22a, a memory card 23a or a host computer 24a through each individual print path depending on each print path. Depending on the print data inputted from each individual print path, the print mode control section converts the print mode into a normal print mode, a first ink save mode for performing density correction while setting low input resolution and record resolution of print data, or a second ink save mode for performing conversion to record resolution with a desired conversion rate while setting high input resolution similarly to normal mode and performing only density correction. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus that records characters and images on a printing medium based on print data, and particularly relates to an apparatus having an ink saving mode.

  In general, in an inkjet printing apparatus, printing is performed by ejecting ink from a plurality of nozzles of a print head so as to correspond to characters or images to be printed, and attaching the ink to a recording sheet.

  In an electrophotographic laser printer, an electrostatic latent image is formed on a photosensitive drum while scanning a laser beam emitted from a semiconductor laser emitter with a polygon mirror, and toner is attached to the electrostatic latent image. Printing is performed by transferring it onto recording paper.

  In a printing apparatus represented by these methods, ink is supplied from an ink cartridge and toner is supplied from a toner cartridge. Ink and toner (hereinafter, recording materials such as ink and toner are collectively referred to as ink). The consumption directly affects the running cost of the printing apparatus, and the user's interest is very high along with the printing speed and printing quality.

  Therefore, conventionally, in order to confirm the print layout, the size of print characters, etc., many ink-saving modes are provided as test print modes that are performed before printing in the normal print mode. In general, an inkjet printing apparatus is provided with a test printing mode such as a draft mode for the purpose of increasing the printing speed and reducing the running cost as compared with the normal printing mode.

  As a means for saving such ink, there is a technique that incorporates a method of reducing the amount of ink used overall by thinning dots from a dot image at a certain rate (for example, Patent Documents). 1 and 2).

  In addition, as another means, there is a method using a method of saving ink consumption while reducing deterioration in print quality due to a decrease in recording resolution or a decrease in the number of gradations by a simple thinning process (for example, Patent Documents 3, 4 and 5).

  Further, as another means, a means for instructing switching between the ink saving mode and the normal printing mode is provided, thereby providing the user with a means for selecting the print quality. There is also a technique using means for changing to a printing condition that does not consume much ink even at the expense of printing quality (see, for example, Patent Document 6).

  In addition, as a means to prevent forgetting to cancel the ink saving mode setting, a method such as automatically returning the setting to the normal printing mode by using the number of times of printing and identifying the non-continuation state of the printing process is used. (For example, refer to Patent Document 7).

That is, among the above cited references, Patent Documents 1 to 5 relate to a printing apparatus having an ink saving mode, and a fundamental technique of how much ink is saved while maintaining print quality. In Patent Documents 6 to 7, from the aspect of providing a means for instructing switching between the ink saving mode and the normal printing mode, and preventing erroneous printing due to an incorrect setting, the normal mode from the ink saving mode is described. Describes a technique related to the user interface, such as a means for automatically returning to the print mode.
JP 60-49958 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-53951 JP-A-8-9123 JP-A-9-123524 JP 2000-301768 A JP-A-6-14167 JP-A-9-58092

  By the way, the above-mentioned conventional ones are based on these techniques, and in particular, in recent ink jet printing apparatuses and the like, at least one of the input resolution and recording resolution of print data is compared with the normal print mode. There are many printers equipped with a test print mode such as a so-called draft mode for the purpose of significantly increasing the printing speed while setting it low and reducing the ink consumption.

  However, since at least one of the input resolution and recording resolution of the print data is set lower than in the normal print mode, the print quality is clearly lowered in the draft mode where the resolution is inferior. It is difficult to achieve user convenience while suppressing the decline and responding to diversifying printing needs that require high speed, high printing quality, and low running cost.

  In the case of the ink saving mode, the means for instructing switching to the normal printing mode and the means for automatically returning to the normal printing mode are based on the user's own selection and the number of printings. Therefore, there is a risk of erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention, and improvement has been demanded from the aspect of the user interface.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that a first ink saving mode such as a speed-oriented draft mode in which at least one of input resolution and recording resolution is different from a normal print mode. In addition, it is possible to improve the convenience of users while responding to the diversifying printing needs of high-speed, high-printing quality, and low running costs by suppressing the apparent decline in printing quality, and from the user interface perspective. Another object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus having an ink saving mode capable of preventing erroneous printing as much as possible.

  In order to achieve the above object, in the present invention, as a printing apparatus that records characters and images on a print medium based on print data, a plurality of print paths for individually inputting the print data from different input means, and Print mode conversion means for converting the print data individually input from each print path into a print mode corresponding to each print path. Then, the print mode of the print mode conversion unit is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high, and the normal print mode without ink saving and the normal print mode. A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the print data input resolution and recording resolution low, and the print data input resolution high as in the normal print mode. Conversion to recording resolution is performed at a desired conversion rate, and conversion is performed in accordance with print data individually input from each print path to a second ink saving mode that saves only ink consumption.

  Due to this specific matter, the print mode of the print mode conversion means is changed to the second according to the print data input via the individual print paths from different input means (for example, scanner, FAX, memory card, host computer, etc.). Conversion to the ink saving mode, the print resolution is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high, and only the ink consumption is saved. Thus, when the second ink saving mode is converted according to the print data individually input from each printing path, the normal printing mode is set as in the printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode. Compared with print data, the input resolution and recording resolution are not significantly inferior, and printing is diversified with high-speed, high-quality prints and low running costs while suppressing print quality degradation. It is possible to improve user convenience while responding to needs. In addition, since the print mode is converted according to the print data input through each print path, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention can be surely prevented, and the user interface can be improved. Become.

  Here, it is determined whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print data individually input from each printing path. The validity determining means is provided in the printing mode conversion means, and when the validity determining means determines that the second ink saving mode is invalidated, the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode. In this case, even if the printing mode of the printing mode conversion unit is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print data individually input from each printing path, the second ink saving mode is determined by the validity determination unit. If it is determined that the second ink saving mode is invalidated, the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode. As a result, the second ink saving mode converted in accordance with the print data from each printing path is changed to the normal print mode as necessary, and high-speed and high-quality printing is achieved while suppressing deterioration in printing quality. In addition, a low running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, since the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode by the validity determining means, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium is reduced. It is also possible to make it.

  Whether or not to change the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print data individually inputted from each printing path. An ink saving rate change determining unit for determining is provided in the printing mode conversion unit, and when the ink saving rate is determined to be changed by the ink saving rate change determining unit, the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode is changed. If the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode converted according to the print data from each printing path by the printing mode conversion means is changed by the ink saving rate change determining means, It will be changed when judged. As a result, the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode converted according to the print data from each printing path is changed as necessary, while suppressing the deterioration of the printing quality, and at high speed and high printing quality, In addition, a low running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, when it is determined by the ink saving rate change determination means that the ink saving rate is to be changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed according to the changed ink saving rate. Unintentional misprinting is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium can be reduced.

  In particular, in order to achieve the above object, the following configuration is listed as a modification of the reference for converting the print mode of the print mode conversion means.

  That is, a printing apparatus that records characters and images on the printing medium based on print data is similarly premised, and a type setting unit that sets the type of the printing medium and the printing target set by the type setting unit Print mode conversion means for converting print data into a print mode corresponding to the type of medium. Then, the print mode of the print mode conversion unit is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high, and the normal print mode without ink saving and the normal print mode. A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the print data input resolution and recording resolution low, and the print data input resolution high as in the normal print mode. Conversion to recording resolution is performed at a desired conversion rate, and conversion is performed in accordance with the type of printing medium into a second ink saving mode that saves only ink consumption.

  Due to this specific matter, the printing mode of the printing mode conversion unit is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the type of printing medium (for example, glossy paper, coated paper, plain paper, etc.) set by the type setting unit. Then, the input resolution of the print data is set to a high value while being converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate, and only the ink consumption is saved. As a result, if converted to the second ink saving mode according to the type of the printing medium, the printing data is compared with the normal printing mode as in a printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode. The input resolution and recording resolution are not significantly inferior, while suppressing the deterioration of print quality, enabling high speed, high print quality, and low running cost, and responding to diversified printing needs. Convenience can be achieved. In addition, since the print mode is converted according to the type of the printing medium, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention is surely prevented, and the user interface can be improved.

  Here, when the print mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the type of the printing medium, an effective determination unit that determines whether to enable the second ink saving mode is used as the printing mode. If the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode when the second ink saving mode is determined to be invalidated by the validity determining means provided in the conversion means, the printing mode Even if the printing mode of the conversion unit is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the type of the printing medium set by the type setting unit, the validity determining unit determines to invalidate the second ink saving mode. Then, the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode. As a result, the second ink saving mode converted according to the type of the printing medium is changed to the normal printing mode as necessary, and the high-speed, high-quality printing is achieved while suppressing the deterioration of the printing quality. A low running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, since the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode by the validity determining means, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium is reduced. It is also possible to make it.

  Ink saving rate change for determining whether or not to change the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the type of printing medium When the determination unit is provided in the print mode conversion unit and the ink saving rate change determination unit determines that the ink saving rate is to be changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed. The ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode converted according to the type of printing medium by the printing mode conversion means is changed when the ink saving rate change determining means determines to change the ink saving ratio. It will be. As a result, the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode converted according to the type of the printing medium is changed as necessary, and the high quality, low printing speed and low speed are suppressed while suppressing the deterioration of the printing quality. A running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, when it is determined by the ink saving rate change determination means that the ink saving rate is to be changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed according to the changed ink saving rate. Unintentional misprinting is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium can be reduced.

  In particular, in order to achieve the above object, the following configuration is listed as a modification of the reference for converting the print mode of the print mode conversion means.

  That is, assuming that a printing apparatus that records characters and images on the print medium based on print data is similarly premised, the size setting means for setting the size of the print medium, and the print target set by the size setting means Print mode conversion means for converting print data into a print mode corresponding to the size of the medium. Then, the print mode of the print mode conversion unit is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high, and the normal print mode without ink saving and the normal print mode. A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the print data input resolution and recording resolution low, and the print data input resolution high as in the normal print mode. Conversion to recording resolution is performed at a desired conversion rate, and conversion is performed in accordance with the size of the printing medium into a second ink saving mode that saves only ink consumption.

  With this specific matter, the printing mode of the printing mode conversion unit is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the size of the printing medium set by the size setting unit (for example, A4, postcard, L size, etc.). In this case, the input resolution of the print data is set to a high value, the conversion processing is performed to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate, and only the ink consumption is saved. As a result, if converted to the second ink saving mode according to the size of the printing medium, the print data is compared with the normal printing mode as in the case of a printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode. The input resolution and recording resolution are not significantly inferior, while suppressing the deterioration of print quality, enabling high speed, high print quality, and low running cost, and responding to diversified printing needs. Convenience can be achieved. In addition, since the print mode is converted according to the size of the printing medium, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention is surely prevented, and the user interface can be improved.

  Here, when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the size of the printing medium, an effective determination unit that determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode is used as the printing mode. If the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode when the second ink saving mode is determined to be invalidated by the validity determining means provided in the conversion means, the printing mode Even if the printing mode of the converting unit is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the size of the printing medium set by the size setting unit, the validity determining unit determines to invalidate the second ink saving mode. Then, the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode. As a result, the second ink saving mode converted according to the size of the printing medium is changed to the normal printing mode as necessary, and while suppressing the deterioration of the printing quality, the printing speed is high, the printing quality is high, and A low running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, since the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode by the validity determining means, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium is reduced. It is also possible to make it.

  Ink saving rate change for determining whether or not to change the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode when the print mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the size of the printing medium When the determination unit is provided in the print mode conversion unit and the ink saving rate change determination unit determines that the ink saving rate is to be changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed. The ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode converted according to the size of the printing medium by the printing mode conversion unit is changed when the ink saving rate change determining unit determines to change the ink saving rate. It will be. As a result, the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode converted according to the size of the printing medium is changed as necessary, and the high-speed, high-printing quality and low-speed are suppressed while suppressing the deterioration of the printing quality. A running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, when it is determined by the ink saving rate change determination means that the ink saving rate is to be changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed according to the changed ink saving rate. Unintentional misprinting is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium can be reduced.

  In particular, in order to achieve the above object, the following configuration is listed as a modification of the reference for converting the print mode of the print mode conversion means.

  That is, assuming that a printing apparatus that records characters and images on the print medium based on print data is also premised, the print type setting means for setting the print type of the print data and the print type setting means Print mode conversion means for converting print data into a print mode corresponding to the print type. Then, the print mode of the print mode conversion unit is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high, and the normal print mode without ink saving and the normal print mode. A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the print data input resolution and recording resolution low, and the print data input resolution high as in the normal print mode. Conversion to the recording resolution is performed at a desired conversion rate, and conversion is performed according to the print type of the print data to the second ink saving mode that saves only the ink consumption.

  With this specific matter, when the print mode of the print mode conversion unit is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print type (for example, color and monochrome) set by the print type setting unit, the print data While the input resolution is set high, the recording resolution is converted at a desired conversion rate, and only the ink consumption is saved. As a result, when the print data is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print type of the print data, the print data is compared with the normal print mode as in the case of a printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode. The input resolution and recording resolution are not significantly inferior, while suppressing the deterioration of print quality, enabling high speed, high print quality, and low running cost, and responding to diversified printing needs. Convenience can be achieved. In addition, by converting the print mode according to the print type, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention can be reliably prevented, and the user interface can be improved.

  Here, when the print mode is converted to the second ink saving mode in accordance with the print type of the print data, the validity determining means for determining whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode is the print mode. If the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode when the second ink saving mode is determined to be invalidated by the validity determining means provided in the conversion means, the printing mode Even if the printing mode of the converting unit is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the printing type of the print data by the printing type setting unit, it is determined that the second ink saving mode is invalidated by the validity determining unit. In this case, the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode. As a result, the second ink saving mode converted according to the printing type is changed to the normal printing mode as necessary, and high speed, high printing quality, and low running cost are suppressed while suppressing deterioration of printing quality. This makes it possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, since the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode by the validity determining means, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium is reduced. It is also possible to make it.

  Ink saving rate change for determining whether or not to change the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print type of the print data When the determination unit is provided in the print mode conversion unit and the ink saving rate change determination unit determines that the ink saving rate is to be changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed. The ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode converted according to the print type of the print data by the printing mode conversion unit is changed when the ink saving rate change determining unit determines to change the ink saving rate. It will be. As a result, the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode converted according to the printing type of the printing medium is changed as necessary, while suppressing the deterioration of the printing quality, with high speed, high printing quality, and A low running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, when it is determined by the ink saving rate change determination means that the ink saving rate is to be changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed according to the changed ink saving rate. Unintentional misprinting is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium can be reduced.

  In particular, in order to achieve the above object, the following configuration is listed as a modification of the reference for converting the print mode of the print mode conversion means.

  In other words, on the assumption of a printing apparatus that records characters and images on the printing medium based on the print data, the print quality setting means for determining the print quality of the print data and the print quality setting means are set. Print mode conversion means for converting print data into a print mode corresponding to the print quality. Then, the print mode of the print mode conversion unit is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high, and the normal print mode without ink saving and the normal print mode. A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the print data input resolution and recording resolution low, and the print data input resolution high as in the normal print mode. Conversion to the recording resolution is performed at a desired conversion rate, and conversion is performed according to the print quality of the print data to the second ink saving mode that saves only the ink consumption.

  With this specific matter, when the print mode of the print mode conversion unit is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print quality (high image quality, normal and fast, etc.) of the print data set by the print quality setting unit. The print data is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while the input resolution is set high, and only the ink consumption is saved. As a result, when the print data is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print quality of the print data, the print data is compared with the normal print mode as in the case of a printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode. The input resolution and recording resolution are not significantly inferior, while suppressing the deterioration of print quality, enabling high speed, high print quality, and low running cost, and responding to diversified printing needs. Convenience can be achieved. Moreover, by converting the print mode according to the print quality, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention can be reliably prevented, and the user interface can be improved.

  Here, when the print mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print quality of the print data, the validity determining means for determining whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode is used as the print mode. When the conversion means is provided and the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode when the validity determining means determines that the second ink saving mode is invalidated, the printing mode Even if the print mode of the conversion means is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print quality of the print data set by the print quality setting means, if the second ink saving mode is invalidated by the validity determination means If it is determined, the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode. As a result, the second ink saving mode converted according to the print quality of the print data is changed to the normal print mode as necessary, and a high-speed, high-quality print is achieved while suppressing a drop in print quality. A low running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, since the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode by the validity determining means, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium is reduced. It is also possible to make it.

  Ink saving rate change for determining whether to change the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print quality of the print data When the determination unit is provided in the print mode conversion unit and the ink saving rate change determination unit determines that the ink saving rate is to be changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed. The ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode converted according to the print quality of the print data by the printing mode conversion means is changed when it is determined by the ink saving rate change determination means that the ink saving rate is changed. It will be. As a result, the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode converted according to the print quality of the print data is changed as necessary, and a high speed, a high print quality, and a low level are suppressed while suppressing a decrease in the print quality. A running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, when it is determined by the ink saving rate change determination means that the ink saving rate is to be changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed according to the changed ink saving rate. Unintentional misprinting is prevented as much as possible, and waste of ink and printing medium can be reduced.

  In particular, the following configuration is listed to further enhance user convenience.

  In other words, the ink that arbitrarily sets whether or not to save ink consumption in the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode in the printing mode conversion means. A saving setting unit is provided, and when the saving of ink consumption is set to non-execution by the ink saving setting unit, the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode.

  Due to this specific matter, even if the printing mode of the printing mode conversion unit is converted to the second ink saving mode, the user makes the saving of ink consumption by the second ink saving mode non-executed by the ink saving setting unit. If set, the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode. As a result, the second ink saving mode converted by the printing mode conversion unit is changed to the normal printing mode according to the user's preference, and the high-speed, high-quality printing and low-speed are suppressed while suppressing the deterioration of the printing quality. A running cost is possible, and it is possible to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, since the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode according to the user's preference by the ink saving setting means, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention is surely prevented, and the ink and the printing medium It is also possible to reduce the waste of waste more effectively.

  In addition, when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode, the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode is arbitrarily set to a plurality of fixed values or arbitrary numerical values in the printing mode conversion means. When the ink saving rate setting means is provided, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode converted by the printing mode conversion means is arbitrarily set by the ink saving rate setting means according to the user's preference. It will be. As a result, it is possible to achieve high speed, high print quality, and low running cost while suppressing deterioration in print quality, and to further improve convenience while responding to user requests. In addition, since the second ink saving mode is changed according to the ink saving rate changed according to the user's preference by the ink saving rate setting means, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention is surely prevented, and ink and It is also possible to effectively reduce the waste of the printing medium.

  If the image processing unit for converting the second ink saving mode converted by the print mode conversion unit using a Look up Table different from the normal print mode is provided, the conversion is performed by the print mode conversion unit. In the second ink saving mode, color conversion is not performed by the addition of complicated heavy processing, the load of internal processing during color conversion is reduced, and adverse effects on printing speed can be suppressed. Become.

  Further, when an inkjet printer engine that executes printing on a printing medium based on the print data changed according to the print mode of the print mode conversion unit is provided, a decrease in print quality is suppressed. In addition, it is possible to provide an ink jet printer that can achieve high speed, high printing quality, low running cost, and more convenience while meeting user requirements.

  In short, the print mode of the print mode conversion means is the print data, the print medium type, the print medium size, the print medium size, the print data print type input from the different input means via the individual print paths, or By switching to the second ink saving mode according to the print quality, etc., while suppressing the decline in print quality, it enables high speed, high print quality and low running cost, and responds to diversifying printing needs In addition, user convenience can be achieved, and erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention can be reliably prevented to improve the user interface.

  Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  Here, a case will be described in which a color inkjet multi-function machine is used as a printing apparatus having four printing paths with different print data input means such as a copy printing function, a FAX printing function, a memory card printing function, and a PC printing function. In this case, the memory card printing function is a function for printing print data (image data) recorded on a removable memory card by a still image recording apparatus represented by a digital camera. Is a function for printing print data sent from a personal computer (host computer).

  FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing the basic configuration of the color inkjet multifunction peripheral A.

  In FIG. 1, the color inkjet multifunction peripheral A includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13. The CPU 11 executes various processes based on a program stored in the ROM 12 or a program loaded into the RAM 13 from the ROM 12 or a memory card 23a (described later). The RAM 13 also stores data necessary for executing various processes, and is sequentially updated and changed. Here, the CPU 11, ROM 12 and RAM 13 are connected to each other via a bus 14, and via this bus 14, a print mode control unit 15, an image processing unit 16, and a printer control driver as print mode conversion means. 17, the printer engine 18, and the print data input unit 2.

  The print data input unit 2 includes a scanner 21a and a copy print control unit 21b as input units for realizing a copy print function serving as a first print path, and a FAX print function serving as a second print path. FAX communication unit 22a and FAX print control unit 22b as input means, memory card 23a (memory card mounted in a memory card slot) as input means for realizing a memory card printing function as a third printing path, and A memory card printing control unit 23b and a PC printing control unit 24b for realizing a PC printing function serving as a fourth printing path are provided.

  In the case of copy printing, the data read by the scanner 21a based on the instruction of the copy printing control unit 21b, and in the case of FAX printing, the data received by the FAX communication unit 22a based on the instruction of the FAX printing control unit 22b, In the case of memory card printing, data read from the memory card 23a based on an instruction from the memory card print control unit 23a, and in the case of further PC printing, as the input means outside the apparatus under the management of the PC print control unit 24b. The data transmitted from the host computer (personal computer) 24a is sent as print data to the image processing unit 16 via the print mode control unit 15.

  The image processing unit 16 performs predetermined image processing according to the print mode based on an instruction from the print mode control unit 15, specifically, the input resolution (dpi) of the print data read by the scanner 21a, and the FAX communication unit 22a. The input resolution (dpi) of the received print data, the input resolution (dpi) of the print data read from the memory card 23a, or the input resolution (dpi) of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a is desired according to printing. Conversion conversion to print resolution (dpi) at a conversion rate, and color conversion processing to a printer color space (for example, cmyk color space) using a LUT (Look Up Table), and conversion to print data Is supposed to be completed.

  The print data is sent to the printer engine 18 via the printer control driver 17, and printing on a recording medium (paper) represented by recording paper is executed. Here, the printer engine 18 is of a color ink jet type.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a user setting menu configuration related to print settings in the present invention.

  The print mode control unit 15 of the color inkjet multifunction peripheral A includes a basic print setting menu M100 provided in a conventional general color inkjet printer as a user setting menu related to print settings, and the present invention. An ink saving setting menu M200 that is an important point is provided. Here, these setting menus are common setting menus for all four printing paths having different print data input means, and each setting menu is uniformly reflected on all the printing paths. However, these setting menus may be separately provided for each printing path.

  The basic print setting menu M100 includes a paper type menu M101 as a type setting means for setting a paper type such as “glossy paper”, “coated paper” or “plain paper”, and “A4”, “postcard” or “L size”. ”, A paper size menu M102 as a size setting means for setting the paper size, a print type menu M103 as a print type setting means for setting a print type such as“ color ”or“ monochrome ”,“ high image quality ”, And an image quality menu M104 as print quality setting means for setting the image quality of printing such as “normal” or “fast”. This image quality menu M104 mainly sets the input resolution and recording resolution. Hereinafter, in some cases, the image quality menu M104 is referred to as basic print quality setting.

  “High” in the image quality menu M104 is a so-called draft mode, and when the user selects this, at least one of the input resolution (dpi) and the recording resolution (dpi) is set lower than in the normal print mode. Then, printing in the first ink saving mode with high speed and reduced ink consumption is executed.

  Specifically, in the case of performing copy printing in the normal print mode, the input data resolution (for example, 600 dpi) of the print data read by the scanner 21 a is resolution conversion in the image processing unit 16 based on an instruction from the print mode control unit 15. In the first ink saving mode, the input resolution is kept low (for example, 300 dpi), and the resolution conversion is not performed on the recording resolution (for example, 1200 dpi). By performing processing with the recording resolution (for example, 300 dpi), the amount of data can be greatly reduced, and high speed can be realized.

  Similarly, in the case of FAX printing, in the normal print mode, the input resolution (for example, 200 dpi) of the print data received by the FAX communication unit 22a is determined by the image processing unit 16 based on an instruction from the print mode control unit 15. In the first ink saving mode, processing is performed at an input resolution (for example, 200 dpi) and a recording resolution (for example, 300 dpi).

  Similarly, in the case of PC printing, in the normal print mode, the input resolution (for example, 600 dpi) of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a is determined by the image processing unit 16 based on an instruction from the print mode control unit 15. In the first ink saving mode, processing is performed with an input resolution (for example, 300 dpi) and a recording resolution (for example, 300 dpi).

  Furthermore, when printing on a memory card, in the normal print mode, print data read from the memory card 23a (the input resolution depends on a recording device such as a digital camera) is used as an instruction from the print mode control unit 15. In the first ink saving mode, processing is performed at the recording resolution (for example, 300 dpi), while the printing processing is performed at the recording resolution (for example, 600 dpi) by the resolution conversion processing in the image processing unit 16 based.

  The ink saving setting menu M200 includes an ink saving setting menu M201 as an ink saving setting means for setting the ink saving to “ON” or “OFF”, and the ink saving rates “10%”, “20%”, “ And an ink saving rate menu M202 as an ink saving rate setting means set to "40%", "arbitrary input (1 to 99%)", or "automatic".

  When the user selects “ON” in this setting in the ink saving setting menu M201, the image quality of printing set in the image quality menu M104 of the basic print setting menu M100 is set while setting the input resolution high. Printing in the second ink saving mode in which the ink consumption is saved (reduced) is performed by performing resolution conversion processing to the corresponding recording resolution and changing only the print density. Further, in the ink saving rate menu M202, the ink reduction rate (print density reduction rate) in the second ink saving mode is set, and the ink reduction rates are “10%”, “20%”, “40%”. By providing a fixed value such as this, it is possible to provide a simple setting means that is easy to understand intuitively to the user, and by providing “arbitrary input (1 to 99%)”, the user can set more finely. It becomes possible. In this case, whether or not to change the ink reduction rate in the second ink saving mode set in the ink saving rate menu M202 is determined by the ink saving rate change determination means.

  Next, an example of a method for controlling the second ink saving mode for each printing path with different print data input means will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, when a print request is generated from the print data input unit 2, the print mode control unit 15 determines a print path in step ST11 of the flowchart of FIG. That is, it is determined whether the print path is copy printing, FAX printing, or PC printing.

  If the determination in step ST11 is YES for copy printing, FAX printing, and PC printing, the process proceeds to step ST12 to determine whether or not the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON” to save ink. If the setting menu M201 is “ON” (YES), in step ST13, in order to enable the second ink saving mode, the input resolution of the print data read by the scanner 21a and the print received by the FAX communication unit 22a. While the input resolution of the data and the input resolution of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a are set high, the image processing unit 16 responds to the print image quality set in the image quality menu M104 of the basic print setting menu M100. The resolution is converted to the recording resolution and only the print density is changed. Only density correction corresponding to the setting of the ink saving rate menu M202 is executed as compared with the normal print mode, and print data is sent to the printer engine 18 via the printer control driver 17 in step ST14 to perform print processing. . In this case, the above-described step ST12 constitutes a validity determination unit that determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode.

  On the other hand, if the determination in step ST11 is NO in which the printing path is memory card printing, the second ink is determined in step ST15 regardless of whether the setting of the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON” / “OFF”. The saving mode is invalidated, and the input resolution of the print data read from the memory card 23a is set to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate according to the print image quality set in the image quality menu M104 of the basic print setting menu M100 in the image processing unit 16. In addition, image processing is performed in a normal printing mode in which density correction is not performed while performing resolution conversion processing. In addition, when the determination in step ST12 is NO in which the ink saving setting menu M201 is “OFF”, in step ST15, the second ink saving mode is disabled and image processing in the normal printing mode is performed. And print processing is performed in step ST14.

  Here, the reason for excluding the memory card printing in the determination of the print path in step ST11 is that the print data (image data) recorded in the still image recording apparatus such as a digital camera is printed with high quality. This is because the user is based on the determination that the user does not want to reduce the print quality by suppressing the amount of ink used. Thereby, erroneous printing contrary to the user's intention can be prevented as much as possible, waste of ink and recording paper (paper) can be reduced, and a user interface can be improved.

  If “automatic” is set in the ink saving rate menu M202, the density correction is executed in the image processing unit 16 so as to automatically change to the optimum ink reduction rate for each printing path in step ST13. . For example, the ink reduction rate is “10%” for copy printing and PC printing, and “20%” for FAX printing. This is because it is assumed that the print quality required by the user for FAX printing is only required to be able to confirm the contents, and is based on the determination that the user does not desire the high quality as copy printing or PC printing. . As a result, if the print data is converted to the second ink saving mode when the printing path is copy printing, FAX printing, and PC printing, as in a printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode, The input resolution and recording resolution of the print data are not significantly inferior to the print mode of the above, while suppressing the deterioration of the print quality when performing copy printing, FAX printing and PC printing, with high speed and high print quality, In addition, a low running cost is possible, and user convenience can be achieved while responding to diversifying printing needs.

  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the second embodiment, the method for controlling the second ink saving mode is changed.

  That is, the second ink saving mode is controlled every time the type of printing medium is set.

  First, when a print request is generated from the print data input unit 2, in step ST21 of the flowchart of FIG. 4, determination of the paper type selected by the user based on the setting of the paper type menu M101 in the print mode control unit 15 is performed. I do. That is, it is determined whether or not “coated paper” and “plain paper” are set in the paper type menu M101.

  If the determination in step ST21 is YES in which “coated paper” and “plain paper” are set, it is determined in step ST22 whether or not the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON”. If the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON”, YES, in step ST23, the input resolution of the print data read by the scanner 21a is received by the FAX communication unit 22a in order to validate the second ink saving mode. The image processing unit 16 uses the basic print setting menu M100 while setting the input resolution of the print data, the input resolution of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a, and the input resolution of the print data read from the memory card 23a high. Place according to the print image quality set in the image quality menu M104 Only the print density is changed, that is, only the density correction corresponding to the setting of the ink saving ratio menu M202 is executed as compared with the normal print mode, while performing the resolution conversion processing to the recording resolution at the conversion rate to be performed. Print data is sent to the printer engine 18 via the control driver 17 to perform print processing. In this case, the above-described step ST22 constitutes a validity determination unit that determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode.

  On the other hand, if the determination in step ST21 is “NO” in which “glossy paper” is set, the second setting is made regardless of whether the setting of the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON” / “OFF” in step ST25. The ink saving mode is disabled, the input resolution of the print data read by the scanner 21a, the input resolution of the print data received by the FAX communication unit 22a, the input resolution of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a, and the memory card 23a. Density correction is executed while converting the input resolution of the read print data into the recording resolution at a conversion rate desired according to the print image quality set in the image quality menu M104 of the basic print setting menu M100 in the image processing unit 16. Image processing is performed in the normal print mode. In addition, when the determination in step ST22 is NO in which the ink saving setting menu M201 is “OFF”, in step ST25, the second ink saving mode is disabled and image processing in the normal printing mode is performed. And print processing is performed in step ST24.

  Here, the reason for excluding “glossy paper” in the paper type determination in step ST21 is that “glossy paper” is more expensive than “coated paper” and “plain paper”, and print data (image data) is high. This is for the purpose of printing with high quality, and is based on the judgment that the user does not want to reduce the print quality by suppressing the amount of ink used. As a result, it is possible to prevent erroneous printing against the user's intention as much as possible, to reduce waste of ink and recording paper, and to improve the user interface.

  If “automatic” is set in the ink saving rate menu M202, the density correction is executed in the image processing unit 16 so as to automatically change to the optimum ink reduction rate for each printing path in step ST23. . For example, the ink reduction rate is “10%” for “coated paper” and “20%” for “plain paper”. This is because it is assumed that the print quality that the user wants for “plain paper” should only be able to confirm the content, and is based on the judgment that the user does not want the high quality as “coated paper”. is there. Thus, if the print data is converted to the second ink saving mode when the paper type is “coated paper” and “plain paper”, as in the printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode, The input resolution and recording resolution of the print data are not significantly inferior to the normal print mode, while suppressing the deterioration of the print quality of “coated paper” and “plain paper”, at high speed and high print quality, In addition, a low running cost is possible, and user convenience can be achieved while responding to diversifying printing needs.

  Next, Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the third embodiment, the method for controlling the second ink saving mode is changed.

  That is, the second ink saving mode is controlled every time the size of the printing medium is set.

  First, when a print request is generated from the print data input unit 2, determination of the paper size selected by the user based on the setting of the paper size menu M102 in the print mode control unit 15 in step ST31 of the flowchart of FIG. I do. That is, it is determined whether or not the paper size is set to “A4” and “postcard”.

  If the determination in step ST31 is “YES” in which “A4” and “postcard” are set, it is determined in step ST32 whether or not the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON” to save ink. When the setting menu M201 is “ON”, YES, in step ST33, in order to enable the second ink saving mode, the input resolution of the print data read by the scanner 21a and the print received by the FAX communication unit 22a. While setting the input resolution of the data, the input resolution of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a, and the input resolution of the print data read from the memory card 23a to be high, the image processing unit 16 uses the image quality of the basic print setting menu M100. Recording according to the print image quality set in menu M104 The resolution conversion processing is performed on the image and only the print density is changed, that is, only the density correction corresponding to the setting of the ink saving rate menu M202 is executed as compared with the normal print mode. In step ST34, the printer control driver 17 is executed. Via the print data, the print data is sent to the printer engine 18 to perform print processing. In this case, the above-described step ST32 constitutes a validity determination unit that determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode.

  On the other hand, if the determination in step ST31 is NO in which “L size” is set, the second setting is made regardless of whether the setting of the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON” / “OFF” in step ST35. The ink saving mode is disabled, the input resolution of the print data read by the scanner 21a, the input resolution of the print data received by the FAX communication unit 22a, the input resolution of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a, and the memory card 23a. Normal print mode in which the input resolution of the read print data is converted to a recording resolution corresponding to the print image quality set in the image quality menu M104 of the basic print setting menu M100 in the image processing unit 16 and density correction is not performed. To perform image processing. Also, if the determination in step ST32 is NO where the ink saving setting menu M201 is “OFF”, in step ST35, the second ink saving mode is disabled and image processing in the normal printing mode is performed. And the printing process is performed in step ST34.

  Here, the reason for excluding “L size” in the paper size determination in step ST31 is that “L size” prints print data (image data) with higher quality than “A4” and “postcard”. This is for the purpose and is based on the determination that the user does not want to reduce the print quality by suppressing the amount of ink used. As a result, it is possible to prevent erroneous printing against the user's intention as much as possible, to reduce waste of ink and recording paper, and to improve the user interface.

  If “automatic” is set in the ink saving rate menu M202, the density correction is executed in the image processing unit 16 so as to automatically change to the optimum ink reduction rate for each printing path in step ST33. . For example, the ink reduction rate is “20%” for “A4” and “10%” for “postcard”. This is because it is assumed that there are many print data that the user intends to print on “A4” as long as the contents can be confirmed as compared with “postcard”, which is as high as “postcard”. This is because it is based on the judgment that quality is not desired. As a result, when the paper type is “A4” and “postcard” and the paper type is converted to the second ink saving mode, the normal printing mode is set as in the printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode. The input resolution and recording resolution of print data are not significantly inferior to each other, and high-speed, high-quality prints and low running costs can be achieved while suppressing the drop in print quality of “A4” and “postcard”. Thus, user convenience can be achieved while responding to diversifying printing needs.

  Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the fourth embodiment, the method for controlling the second ink saving mode is changed.

  That is, the second ink saving mode is controlled for each color and monochrome setting.

  First, when a print request is generated from the print data input unit 2, the print type selected by the user is determined based on the setting of the print type menu M103 in the print mode control unit 15 in step ST41 of the flowchart of FIG. I do. That is, it is determined whether or not the paper size is set to “monochrome”.

  If the determination in step ST41 is “YES” in which “monochrome” is set, it is determined in step ST42 whether or not the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON”, and the ink saving setting menu M201 is displayed. In the case of “ON” YES, in step ST43, in order to validate the second ink saving mode, the input resolution of the print data read by the scanner 21a and the input resolution of the print data received by the FAX communication unit 22a. While the input resolution of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a and the input resolution of the print data read from the memory card 23a are set high, the image processing unit 16 uses the image quality menu M104 of the basic print setting menu M100. Resolution to the recording resolution according to the print quality Conversion processing is performed, and only the print density is changed, that is, only density correction corresponding to the setting of the ink saving rate menu M202 is executed as compared with the normal print mode, and printing is performed via the printer control driver 17 in step ST44. Data is sent to the printer engine 18 to perform printing processing. In this case, the above-described step ST42 constitutes a validity determining unit that determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode.

  On the other hand, when the determination in step ST41 is “NO” in which “color” is set, the second ink is determined in step ST45 regardless of the setting of the ink saving setting menu M201 being “ON” / “OFF”. The saving mode is invalidated, the input resolution of the print data read by the scanner 21a, the input resolution of the print data received by the FAX communication unit 22a, the input resolution of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a, and the read from the memory card 23a In the normal print mode in which the input resolution of the print data is converted to the recording resolution corresponding to the print image quality set in the image quality menu M104 of the basic print setting menu M100 in the image processing unit 16 and density correction is not performed. Perform image processing. In addition, when the determination in step ST42 is NO in which the ink saving setting menu M201 is “OFF”, in step ST45, the second ink saving mode is disabled and image processing in the normal printing mode is performed. And the printing process is performed in step ST44.

  Here, the reason for excluding “color” in the determination of the print type in step ST41 is to print the print data (image data) with high quality compared to “monochrome” for “color”. This is because the user is based on a determination that the user does not want to reduce the print quality by suppressing the ink usage. As a result, it is possible to prevent erroneous printing against the user's intention as much as possible, to reduce waste of ink and recording paper, and to improve the user interface.

  If “automatic” is set in the ink saving rate menu M202, the density correction is executed in the image processing unit 16 so as to automatically change to the optimum ink reduction rate for each printing path in step ST43. . For example, the ink reduction rate is “20%” for “monochrome” and “10%” for “color”. This is because it is assumed that characters are often printed in monochrome printing, and it is relatively difficult for the user to understand the deterioration in print quality caused by increasing the ink reduction rate compared to color printing. Because it is based on. Accordingly, if the print data is converted to the second ink saving mode when the print type of the print data is “monochrome”, the normal printing is performed as in the printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode. The input resolution and recording resolution of print data are not significantly inferior to the mode, and high-speed, high-quality prints and low running costs can be achieved while suppressing the deterioration of "monochrome" print quality. Therefore, user convenience can be achieved while responding to diversifying printing needs.

  Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the fifth embodiment, the method for controlling the second ink saving mode is changed.

  That is, the second ink saving mode is controlled for each image quality setting (basic print quality setting).

  First, when a print request is generated from the print data input unit 2, the print image quality (basic print product) selected by the user based on the setting of the image quality menu M104 in the print mode control unit 15 in step ST51 of the flowchart of FIG. Position setting). That is, it is determined whether or not the print image quality is set to “normal” and “fast (draft mode, first ink saving means)”.

  If the determination in step ST51 is “YES” in which “normal” and “fast” are set, it is determined in step ST52 whether or not the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON” to save ink. If the setting menu M201 is “ON” (YES), in step ST53, in order to enable the second ink saving mode, the input resolution of the print data read by the scanner 21a and the print received by the FAX communication unit 22a. While setting the input resolution of the data, the input resolution of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a, and the input resolution of the print data read from the memory card 23a to be high, the image processing unit 16 uses the image quality of the basic print setting menu M100. Recording according to the print image quality set in menu M104 The resolution conversion processing is performed on the image and only the print density is changed, that is, only the density correction corresponding to the setting of the ink saving rate menu M202 is executed as compared with the normal print mode. In step ST54, the printer control driver 17 is Via the print data, the print data is sent to the printer engine 18 to perform print processing. In this case, the above-described step ST52 constitutes a validity determining unit that determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode.

  On the other hand, if the determination in step ST51 is “NO” in which “high quality” is set, the second setting is made regardless of whether the setting of the ink saving setting menu M201 is “ON” / “OFF” in step ST55. The ink saving mode is disabled, the input resolution of the print data read by the scanner 21a, the input resolution of the print data received by the FAX communication unit 22a, the input resolution of the print data transmitted from the host computer 24a, and the memory card 23a. Normal print mode in which the input resolution of the read print data is converted to a recording resolution corresponding to the print image quality set in the image quality menu M104 of the basic print setting menu M100 in the image processing unit 16 and density correction is not performed. To perform image processing. In addition, when the determination in step ST52 is NO in which the ink saving setting menu M201 is “OFF”, in step ST55, the second ink saving mode is disabled and image processing in the normal printing mode is performed. And print processing is performed in step ST54.

  Here, the reason for excluding “high image quality” in the determination of print image quality in step ST51 is that “high image quality” is higher than “normal” and “fast”, and print data (image data) is printed with high quality. This is for the purpose and is based on the determination that the user does not want to reduce the print quality by suppressing the amount of ink used. As a result, it is possible to prevent erroneous printing against the user's intention as much as possible, to reduce waste of ink and recording paper, and to improve the user interface.

  If “automatic” is set in the ink saving rate menu M202, the density correction is executed in the image processing unit 16 so as to automatically change to the optimum ink reduction rate for each printing path in step ST53. . For example, the ink reduction rate is “20%” for “normal” and “10%” for “fast”. This is because “fast” is a lower reduction rate than “normal” because “fast” is a so-called draft mode, and the amount of ink used is originally suppressed, and more ink is reduced here. This is because there is a purpose to prevent the reverse effect (the density of the printed result is too thin to be useful). As a result, when the print image quality of the print data is “normal” and “fast” and converted to the second ink saving mode, a normal printing apparatus having only the first ink saving mode is used. The input resolution and recording resolution of the print data are not significantly inferior to the print mode. When the print image quality of the print data is "Normal" and "Fast", the print quality is suppressed and high speed and high speed are suppressed. The printing quality and the low running cost are possible, and the convenience of the user can be achieved while meeting the diversified printing needs.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to said each Example, The other various modifications are included. For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the present invention is applied to the color inkjet multifunction peripheral A has been described, but it is needless to say that the present invention can also be applied to an electrophotographic laser printer.

  The printing apparatus of the present invention can be effectively used for a printing apparatus having an ink saving mode for the purpose of reducing running costs.

1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a basic configuration of a color inkjet multifunction peripheral according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is a functional block diagram which shows the example of the user setting menu structure similarly related to a print setting. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for controlling a second ink saving mode for each different print path of the print data input unit. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for controlling a second ink saving mode for each paper type setting of the color inkjet multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for controlling a second ink saving mode for each paper size setting of the color inkjet multifunction peripheral according to the third embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows the example regarding the method of controlling the 2nd ink saving mode for every color or monochrome setting of the color inkjet multifunctional device concerning Example 4 of this invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for controlling a second ink saving mode for each image quality setting of a color inkjet multifunction peripheral according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

15 Print mode control unit (print mode conversion means)
16 Image processing unit 18 Printer engine 21a Scanner (input means)
22a FAX communication unit (input means)
23a Memory card (input means)
24a Host computer (input means)
M101 Paper type menu (type setting means)
M102 Paper size menu (size setting means)
M103 Print type menu (print type setting means)
M104 Image quality menu (Print quality setting means)
M201 Ink saving setting menu (ink saving setting means)
M202 Ink saving rate menu (ink saving rate setting means)
A color inkjet multifunction printer (printing device)

Claims (19)

A printing apparatus for recording characters and images on a print medium based on print data,
A plurality of print paths for individually inputting the print data from different input means;
Print mode conversion means for converting the print data individually input from each print path into a print mode corresponding to each print path;
The print mode of the print mode conversion means is
A normal print mode in which ink is not saved and which is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high,
A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the input resolution and recording resolution of print data lower than the normal print mode;
As in the normal print mode, each print path is switched to the second ink saving mode in which the input resolution of the print data is set to a high level while converting the recording data to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate and only the ink consumption is saved. A printing apparatus that is adapted to be converted according to individually inputted print data. In the printing apparatus according to claim 1,
Whether the print mode conversion unit validates the second ink saving mode when the print mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print data individually input from each printing path. And an effective determination means for determining whether the second ink saving mode is invalidated by the validity determining means, so that the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode. Characteristic printing device. In the printing apparatus according to claim 1,
The printing mode conversion unit changes the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print data individually input from each printing path. An ink saving rate change determining means for determining whether or not the ink saving rate is changed by the ink saving rate change determining means, and the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed. The printing apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. A printing apparatus for recording characters and images on a print medium based on print data,
Type setting means for setting the type of the printing medium;
Print mode conversion means for converting print data into a print mode corresponding to the type of the printing medium set by the type setting means,
The print mode of the print mode conversion means is
A normal print mode in which ink is not saved and which is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high,
A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the input resolution and recording resolution of print data lower than the normal print mode;
As in the normal print mode, the print medium is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while the input resolution of the print data is set high, and the second ink saving mode that saves only the ink consumption amount is used. A printing apparatus characterized by being converted according to type. The printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein:
The print mode conversion means determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode when the print mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the type of printing medium. And the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode when it is determined by the validity determining means that the second ink saving mode is invalidated. The printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein:
The print mode conversion means determines whether or not to change the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the type of the printing medium. An ink saving rate change determining unit is provided, and when the ink saving rate change determining unit determines that the ink saving rate is changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed. Printing device to do. A printing apparatus for recording characters and images on a print medium based on print data,
Size setting means for setting the size of the printing medium;
Printing mode conversion means for converting the print data to a printing mode according to the size of the printing medium set by the size setting means,
The print mode of the print mode conversion means is
A normal print mode in which ink is not saved and which is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high,
A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the input resolution and recording resolution of print data lower than the normal print mode;
As in the normal print mode, the print medium is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while the input resolution of the print data is set high, and the second ink saving mode that saves only the ink consumption amount is used. A printing apparatus characterized by being converted according to size. In the printing apparatus according to claim 7,
The print mode conversion means determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode when the print mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the size of the printing medium. And the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode when it is determined by the validity determining means that the second ink saving mode is invalidated. In the printing apparatus according to claim 7,
The print mode conversion unit determines whether or not to change the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the size of the printing medium. An ink saving rate change determining unit is provided, and when the ink saving rate change determining unit determines that the ink saving rate is changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed. Printing device to do. A printing apparatus for recording characters and images on a print medium based on print data,
Print type setting means for setting the print type of the print data;
A print mode conversion means for converting print data into a print mode corresponding to the print type set by the print type setting means,
The print mode of the print mode conversion means is
A normal print mode in which ink is not saved and which is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high,
A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the input resolution and recording resolution of print data lower than the normal print mode;
As in the normal printing mode, printing data is printed in the second ink saving mode in which the input resolution of the print data is set to a high level while converting the recording data to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate and only the ink consumption is saved. A printing apparatus characterized by being converted according to type. The printing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein
The print mode conversion means determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode when the print mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print type of the print data. And the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode when it is determined by the validity determining means that the second ink saving mode is invalidated. The printing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein
The print mode conversion unit determines whether or not to change the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print type of the print data. An ink saving rate change determining unit is provided, and when the ink saving rate change determining unit determines that the ink saving rate is changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed. Printing device to do. A printing apparatus for recording characters and images on a print medium based on print data,
Print quality setting means for setting the print quality of the print data;
Print mode conversion means for converting print data to a print mode corresponding to the print quality set by the print quality setting means,
The print mode of the print mode conversion means is
A normal print mode in which ink is not saved and which is converted to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate while setting the input resolution of the print data high,
A first ink saving mode that saves ink consumption while setting at least one of the input resolution and recording resolution of print data lower than the normal print mode;
As in the normal print mode, the print data is printed in the second ink saving mode in which the input resolution of the print data is set to a high level while converting to the recording resolution at a desired conversion rate and only the ink consumption is saved. A printing apparatus characterized by being converted according to the position. The printing apparatus according to claim 13,
The print mode conversion means determines whether or not to enable the second ink saving mode when the print mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print quality of the print data. And the second ink saving mode is changed to the normal printing mode when it is determined by the validity determining means that the second ink saving mode is invalidated. The printing apparatus according to claim 13,
The print mode conversion means determines whether or not to change the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode according to the print quality of the print data. An ink saving rate change determining unit is provided, and when the ink saving rate change determining unit determines that the ink saving rate is changed, the ink saving rate in the second ink saving mode is changed. Printing device to do. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein:
The print mode conversion means arbitrarily sets whether or not to perform ink consumption saving in the second ink saving mode when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode. And a second ink saving mode is changed to a normal printing mode when saving of ink consumption is set to non-execution by the ink saving setting means. . The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein:
The print mode conversion means optionally sets the ink saving rate of the second ink saving mode to a plurality of fixed values or arbitrary numerical values when the printing mode is converted to the second ink saving mode. A printing apparatus comprising a rate setting means. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein:
A printing apparatus comprising: an image processing unit configured to perform color conversion on a second ink saving mode converted by a printing mode conversion unit using a Look up Table different from a normal printing mode. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein:
A printing apparatus comprising an inkjet printer engine that executes printing on a printing medium based on print data changed according to a print mode of a print mode conversion unit.

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