JP2009208310A - Recording controller, recorder, and recording control program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a recorder which can perform the optimal recording control corresponding to the secular variation and abrasion of components without demanding a special operation to a user and consuming the recording material not-yet used vainly in the recorder capable of making a record in the recording material of an all-purpose article. <P>SOLUTION: A pixel group whose RGB value is below the RGB value of the pixel composing a pattern for correction or CMYK value after color conversion is beyond the CMYK value of the pattern for correction S while including the pattern for correction S is searched from the image data recorded on the recording surface of a recording paper P. The pattern for correction S is recorded in a scheduled portion wherein the pixel group is formed, and the recorded pattern for correction S is detected by a PW sensor 34. After a predetermined control parameter is changed from the detection state, all pixels of the image data are formed on the recording surface of the recording paper P wherein the pattern for correction S has been recorded. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention provides recording control of a recording apparatus including a pixel forming apparatus that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, and a sensor that can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming apparatus. The present invention relates to a recording control device to be executed, a recording device provided with the recording control device, and a recording control program for causing a computer to execute control of the recording device.

  2. Description of the Related Art Recording apparatuses that perform recording of an image or the like by forming a large number of pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, such as an ink jet printer, a dot impact printer, and a laser printer, are known.

  In such a recording apparatus, high-precision recording is possible by accurately forming each pixel on the recording surface of the recording material at a position where the pixel is to be formed. Therefore, for example, a transport error in a transport device (a transport roller or the like) that transports a recording material in the recording apparatus causes a shift in the pixel formation position with respect to the recording surface of the recording material due to the transport error, so that the recording accuracy is reduced. It becomes a factor to do. That is, in the recording apparatus, the transport error of the transport apparatus greatly affects the recording accuracy. However, even if the recording apparatus has exactly the same configuration, the error amount varies from one individual to another due to component tolerances and the like. Therefore, in the manufacturing process of the recording apparatus, the transport error is measured for each individual, and control constants etc. for correcting the transport error are determined for each individual and stored individually in a nonvolatile memory or the like inside the recording apparatus. Is common. As a result, it is possible to maintain a certain level of recording accuracy in all of the mass-produced recording devices.

  However, the transport error of the transport device may fluctuate due to aging or wear of parts while the user is using it. For this reason, while the user is using the recording apparatus, there is a possibility that the conveyance accuracy of the conveyance device is lowered and the recording accuracy is lowered. As an example of the prior art that can solve such a problem, for example, a function that allows a user to record a predetermined test pattern on a recording material, and the user determines the optimal control constant visually from the test pattern. Thus, a recording apparatus having a function capable of changing a control constant inside the recording apparatus is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, the control constant is automatically determined based on the function of reading the test pattern recorded on the recording material or the mark previously attached to the dedicated recording material with a sensor and the content of the read test pattern. A recording apparatus having a function of changing the information is known (for example, see Patent Document 2 or 3).

According to these conventional techniques, the user can appropriately change the control constant for correcting the conveyance error to an optimum value in accordance with the fluctuation of the conveyance error of the recording material due to aging or wear of parts. . Therefore, in the recording apparatus, it is possible to reduce a decrease in recording accuracy due to aging or wear of parts of the transport apparatus.
JP 2003-11345 A JP-A-5-96796 JP 2003-25656 A

  However, in the conventional techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the user has to perform an operation of recording a test pattern for determining a correction value of a conveyance error on a recording material. That is, there is a problem that the user is forced to perform complicated work in order to change the control constant for correcting the conveyance error to an optimum value.

  In the prior art described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, a test pattern is recorded on a recording material, and an optimum control constant is determined from the test pattern, so that at least one unused recording target is recorded. It is uneconomical because the material is consumed wastefully. Further, it is not preferable to waste unused recording materials from the viewpoint of environmental protection.

  In this regard, the conventional technique described in Patent Document 3 does not need to record a test pattern on a recording material and does not waste unused recording material, but the two marks are spaced at a fixed interval. This is a technique that can be implemented only for a special recording apparatus that performs recording on a dedicated recording material that is attached in advance. Therefore, the prior art described in Patent Document 3 cannot be applied to a general recording apparatus that performs recording on a general-purpose recording material that is widely distributed. Furthermore, since the recording apparatus described in Patent Document 3 is premised on recording on a dedicated recording material in which two marks are attached in advance at regular intervals, for example, the recording material This is not suitable for borderless recording in which a photographic image or the like is recorded without a margin on the entire surface.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and the problem is that a recording apparatus capable of recording on a general-purpose recording material does not require a user to perform a special operation and has not yet been performed. An object of the present invention is to realize a recording apparatus capable of executing optimum recording control in response to aging and wear of parts without wasting used recording materials.

  In order to achieve the above object, according to a first aspect of the present invention, a pixel forming device that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material and pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming device can be detected. In a recording control apparatus for executing recording control of a recording apparatus including a sensor, a predetermined test pattern is included in image data recorded on a recording surface of a recording material, and an RGB value is the predetermined test. Search means for searching for a pixel or a group of pixels composed of a plurality of the pixels in which the RGB value of the pattern data is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pattern data or the CMYK value after color conversion is greater than or equal to the CMYK value of the predetermined test pattern data; First recording control means for recording the predetermined test pattern in a portion where an image based on the pixel or pixel group searched by the searching means is to be formed; and the first recording control Detecting means for detecting the predetermined test pattern recorded on the recording surface of the recording material in a stage with the sensor, and executing predetermined control based on a detection state of the predetermined test pattern in the detecting means Control change means for changing the control constant, and second recording for forming an image based on the image data on the recording surface of the recording material on which the predetermined test pattern is recorded on the recording surface by the first recording control means And a control means.

  Here, since the RGB color space is an additive color mixture, the pixel becomes a color close to white as each RGB value increases and becomes a black color as each RGB value decreases. Further, since the CMYK color space is a subtractive color mixture, the pixel becomes a color close to black as each CMYK value increases and becomes a color close to white as each CMYK value decreases.

  First, among the image data recorded on the recording surface of the recording material, the predetermined test pattern is included and the RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the predetermined test pattern data or the CMYK value after color conversion is the predetermined test. A pixel that is equal to or higher than the CMYK value of the pattern data or a pixel group composed of a plurality of the pixels is searched (search means). When such a pixel or a group of pixels is formed so as to overlap a portion on which a test pattern on the recording surface of a recording material is recorded, the test pattern cannot be visually recognized or hardly recognized. That is, the test pattern is covered by forming a pixel or pixel group of a darker color (closer to black) than the test pattern in an area including the area where the predetermined test pattern is recorded. Search for a pixel or group of pixels that can.

  Next, a predetermined test pattern is recorded on a portion of the recording surface of the recording material on which an image based on the pixel or the pixel group searched by the search unit is to be formed (first recording control unit). Subsequently, the test pattern is detected by a sensor (detection means), and predetermined control is executed or a predetermined control constant is changed (control change means) based on the detection state of the test pattern. As a result, the recording apparatus is in a state where it is possible to perform optimal recording control in response to aging and wear of parts. Note that the “predetermined control” is effective control for executing recording with higher accuracy such as head cleaning of the recording head and measurement of carriage dynamic load. The “control constant” is preferably changed to an optimum value according to the state of the printing apparatus in order to execute printing with higher accuracy, such as a conveyance correction value, a Bi-d correction value, and a nozzle pattern to be used. Control constant.

  Finally, an image is superimposed on the recording surface of the recording material based on the image data (second recording control means). Accordingly, it is possible to record a photographic image or the like to be originally recorded on the recording material while making the test pattern recorded on the recording material visually unrecognizable or hardly recognizable.

  That is, before executing recording (second recording control means) of a photographic image or the like that should be recorded on the recording surface of the recording material to be recorded, the recording material is used to obtain a predetermined test pattern. Is recorded on the recording surface (first recording control means), and the test pattern is detected by a sensor (detection means). Then, predetermined control is executed based on the detection state of the test pattern or a predetermined control constant is changed (control change means), and then an image is formed on the recording surface of the recording material by superimposing the image based on the image data. (Second recording control means).

  Accordingly, it is possible to make it possible to perform optimum recording control corresponding to aging of parts, wear, and the like without wasting unused recording material. Since these can be executed in the process of recording a photographic image or the like to be recorded on a recording material, the user does not need to perform a special operation. Furthermore, there is no need to use a special dedicated recording material or the like, and a general-purpose recording material can be used as the recording material.

  Thereby, according to the recording control apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, in a recording apparatus capable of recording on a general-purpose recording material, it is not used without requiring a special operation from the user. Thus, there is an effect that optimum recording control can be executed in response to aging of parts, wear, and the like without wastefully consuming the recording material.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the recording control apparatus according to the first aspect described above, the recording apparatus includes a conveyance device that conveys a recording material in a predetermined conveyance direction, and the control change unit The recording material transport position when the predetermined test pattern is recorded on the recording surface of the recording material by the first recording control means and the recording material when the predetermined test pattern is detected by the detection means The recording control device is characterized in that a control constant for correcting a transport error when the recording material is transported by a predetermined transport amount is changed based on a difference from the transport position.

  According to the recording control apparatus of the second aspect of the present invention, in a recording apparatus capable of recording on a general-purpose recording material, an unused recording target is not required without requiring a special operation from the user. The control constant that corrects the transport error when transporting the recording material with the specified transport amount by the transport device to the optimal control constant in response to aging and wear of parts without wasting material The effect that it can be set is obtained.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the recording control apparatus according to the first aspect described above, the pixel forming apparatus includes a recording head that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, and a recording target by the transport device. A head conveying device that reciprocates the recording head in a direction that intersects the material conveying direction, and the first recording control unit forms pixels while moving the recording head in the forward direction, and the recording head Forming a pixel while moving the recording head in the backward direction, recording the predetermined test pattern on the recording surface of the recording material, and the control changing means includes the pixel formed while moving the recording head in the forward direction and the pixel Based on the relative positional relationship with the pixel formed while moving the recording head in the backward direction, the pixel formation position when forming the pixel while moving the recording head in the forward direction Serial to change the control constant for correcting the relative positional deviation between the pixel forming position when the recording head to form a pixel while moving backward direction, it is a recording control apparatus characterized.

  According to the recording control apparatus of the third aspect of the present invention, in a recording apparatus capable of recording on a general-purpose recording material, an unused recording target is required without requiring a special operation from the user. There is an effect that a control constant for so-called Bi-d adjustment can be set to an optimum control constant in response to aging of parts, wear, and the like without wasting material.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the recording control apparatus according to the first aspect described above, the pixel forming apparatus has a recording head having a plurality of dot forming elements for forming dots on the recording surface of the recording material. The first recording control means records the predetermined test pattern using all dot forming elements of the recording head, and the control changing means detects the predetermined test pattern in the detecting means. Identify a dot-forming element that is in a state where dots cannot be formed, and change the control constant so that the dot-forming element that cannot form dots can be disabled and replaced with another dot-forming element, Alternatively, the recording control apparatus is configured to execute predetermined head cleaning control.

  According to the recording control apparatus of the fourth aspect of the present invention, in a recording apparatus capable of recording on a general-purpose recording material, an unused recording target is required without requiring a special operation from the user. There is an effect that the possibility that the recording accuracy is lowered due to missing dots or the like can be reduced without wasting material.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the recording control apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects described above, at least the first recording is performed after the power of the recording apparatus is turned on or the recording is performed. Executing the recording control by the search means, the first recording control means, the detection means, the control change means and the second recording control means at the time of the first recording execution after changing the type of the recording material; Is a recording control apparatus characterized by the above.

  For example, in a recording apparatus such as an ink jet printer, nozzle clogging of ink jet nozzles (dot forming elements) of a recording head tends to occur when a long period of time elapses after the recording apparatus is turned off. Also, the transport error when transporting the recording material by the transport device and the amount of deviation of the pixel formation position in bidirectional recording differ depending on the size, thickness, surface frictional resistance, etc. of the recording material to be recorded. May come.

  Therefore, at least at the time of the first recording execution after turning on the power of the recording apparatus or at the first recording execution after changing the type of recording material to be recorded, the predetermined control is executed or the predetermined control constant is changed. The above-described series of control (control change means) is executed. As a result, it is possible to execute the above-described series of control for executing a predetermined control or changing a predetermined control constant (control changing means) at an appropriate timing, while minimizing the accompanying throughput reduction. Thus, there is an effect that the optimum recording control can be executed corresponding to the secular change and wear of the parts.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pixel forming apparatus that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, and a sensor that can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming apparatus. In a recording control apparatus that executes recording control of a recording apparatus, a search for searching for a pixel of lightness that can be detected by the sensor or a pixel group composed of a plurality of pixels from image data recorded on a recording surface of a recording material Means, a first recording control means for forming an image based on the pixel or pixel group searched by the search means in the image data on a recording surface of the recording material, and recording of the recording material by the first recording control means Detecting means for detecting a pixel or a pixel group formed on a surface by the sensor; and control changing means for executing predetermined control or changing a predetermined control constant based on a detection state of the pixel or the pixel group in the detecting means; The above An image based on all the pixels of the image data or a pixel other than the pixels formed on the recording surface by the first recording control unit on the recording surface of the recording material in which pixels or pixel groups are formed on the recording surface by one recording control unit And a second recording control unit that forms an image based on all pixels.

  First, from the image data recorded on the recording surface of the recording material, a pixel of lightness that can be detected by a sensor provided in the recording apparatus or a pixel group composed of a plurality of the pixels is searched (search means). Such a pixel or a group of pixels can be used as a test pattern by first forming an image based on a part or all of it on the recording surface of the recording material (first recording control means). That is, by extracting pixels of an array having a desired test pattern shape from the detected pixel group and forming them first on the recording surface of the recording material (first recording control means), a part of the image data is used. Thus, a test pattern can be formed on the recording surface.

  This pixel or pixel group is part of the image data that is originally intended to be recorded on the recording material. Therefore, after using this pixel or pixel group as a test pattern, an image based on the remaining pixels of the image data is formed on the recording surface of the recording material, or an image based on all the pixels is formed and recorded. By executing the above, it is possible to complete the image to be recorded on the recording material on the recording surface of the recording material (second recording control means). In this case, since the previously recorded pixel or pixel group is a part of the image data that is originally intended to be recorded on the recording material, the entire image is formed on the recording surface of the recording material. It does not affect.

  Therefore, first, a test pattern composed of pixels or pixel groups searched by the search means is formed on the recording surface of the recording material (first recording control means). Next, the test pattern is detected by a sensor (detection means), and predetermined control is executed or a predetermined control constant is changed (control change means) based on the detection state of the test pattern. As a result, the recording apparatus is in a state where it is possible to perform optimal recording control in response to aging and wear of parts. Finally, an image based on the remaining pixels of the image data is formed on the recording surface of the recording material, or an image based on all the pixels is overlapped to form a photographic image that should be originally recorded on the recording material. Etc. can be completed (second recording control means).

  In other words, before recording a photographic image or the like to be originally recorded on the recording surface of the recording material to be recorded (second recording control means), the recording material is used to store one of the image data. First, a test pattern composed of pixels or pixel groups is recorded on the recording surface (first recording control means), and the test pattern is detected by a sensor. Whether predetermined control is executed or a predetermined control constant is changed based on the detection state (control changing means), and then an image based on the remaining pixels of the image data is formed on the recording surface of the recording material. Then, an image based on all the pixels is formed in an overlapping manner (second recording control means).

  Thereby (detection means), it is possible to make it possible to execute optimum recording control corresponding to aging of parts, wear, etc. without wasting unused recording material wastefully ( Control change means). Since these can be executed in the process of recording a photographic image or the like to be recorded on a recording material, the user does not need to perform a special operation. Furthermore, there is no need to use a special dedicated recording material or the like, and a general-purpose recording material can be used as the recording material.

  Thus, according to the recording control apparatus of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the recording apparatus capable of recording on a general-purpose recording material is not used without requiring a special operation from the user. Thus, there is an effect that optimum recording control can be executed in response to aging of parts, wear, and the like without wastefully consuming the recording material.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pixel forming device that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, a sensor that can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming device, And a recording control apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects.
According to the recording apparatus of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the effect of the invention according to any one of the first to sixth aspects described above can be obtained in the recording apparatus.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pixel forming device that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, and a sensor that can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming device. In a recording control program for causing a computer to execute recording control of a recording apparatus, the RGB value of the predetermined test pattern data is included in a predetermined test pattern from among image data recorded on a recording surface of a recording material. A search procedure for searching for a pixel having a CMYK value equal to or greater than the CMYK value of the predetermined test pattern data or a pixel group composed of a plurality of the pixels and a search procedure for the recording surface of the recording material A first recording control procedure for recording the predetermined test pattern in a portion where an image based on the selected pixel or pixel group is to be formed; The predetermined control is executed based on the detection procedure for detecting the predetermined test pattern recorded on the recording surface of the recording material by the sensor, and the detection state of the predetermined test pattern in the detection procedure. A control change procedure for changing the constant, and a second recording control for forming an image on the recording surface of the recording material on which the predetermined test pattern is recorded on the recording surface by the first recording control procedure, based on the image data A recording control program characterized in that the procedure is executed.

  According to the recording control program of the eighth aspect of the present invention, in the recording apparatus controlled by the computer that executes this recording control program, the same operation as that of the above-described invention of the first aspect of the present invention. An effect can be obtained.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pixel forming apparatus that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, and a sensor that can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming apparatus. In a recording control program for causing a computer to perform recording control of a recording apparatus, search for a pixel of brightness or a pixel group consisting of a plurality of the pixels that can be detected by the sensor from image data recorded on a recording surface of a recording material A first recording control procedure for forming, on the recording surface of the recording material, an image based on a pixel or a group of pixels searched in the searching procedure in the image data, and a recording material in the first recording control procedure A predetermined procedure is executed or a predetermined control constant is changed based on a detection procedure for detecting a pixel or a pixel group formed on the recording surface by the sensor and a detection state of the pixel or the pixel group in the detection procedure. An image based on all the pixels of the image data or the recording by the first recording control procedure on the recording surface of the recording material on which a pixel or a pixel group is formed on the recording surface by the control changing procedure and the first recording control procedure And a second recording control procedure for forming an image based on all the pixels other than the pixels formed on the surface.

  According to the recording control program of the ninth aspect of the present invention, in the recording apparatus controlled by the computer that executes this recording control program, the same operation as the above-described invention of the sixth aspect of the present invention is performed. An effect can be obtained.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<Schematic configuration of inkjet printer>
First, a schematic configuration of an inkjet printer as an example of a “recording apparatus” will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an essential part of an ink jet printer, and FIG. 2 is a side view thereof. FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of the inkjet printer.
The ink jet printer 50 includes a recording head 62 as a “pixel forming apparatus” that ejects ink onto a recording sheet P as a “recording material” to form pixels on a recording surface. The recording head 62 is mounted on a carriage 61 as a “head conveying device” that is pivotally supported by a carriage guide shaft 56 so as to be capable of reciprocating in the main scanning direction X. In addition to the recording head 62, the carriage 61 is mounted with a PW sensor 34 described later, an ink cartridge (not shown), and the like. The carriage 61 reciprocates in the main scanning direction X when the rotational driving force of the CR motor 63 (FIG. 3) is transmitted by a belt transmission mechanism (not shown).

  A platen 53 is provided at a position facing the head surface of the recording head 62 to support the recording paper P on which recording is performed from the back side and to define a gap between the head surface of the recording head 62 and the recording paper P. Yes. A known capping device 57 is provided outside the one end side of the reciprocating region of the carriage 61 in the main scanning direction X. In a standby state in which recording is not performed, the carriage 61 moves over the capping device 57 and stops, and the head surface of the recording head 62 is sealed by the cap CP provided in the capping device 57. The stop position of the carriage 61 is defined as a home position HP.

  Further, the inkjet printer 50 serves as a means for causing the recording head 62 to scan the recording paper P in the sub-scanning direction Y, and the transport driving roller 51 and the transport as a “conveying device” for transporting the recording paper P in the sub-scanning direction Y. A driven roller 52 is provided. The transport driving roller 51 is coated with a film having a high frictional resistance on the outer peripheral surface, and is rotated by the rotational driving force of the PF motor 58 (FIG. 3). The plurality of transport driven rollers 52 are pivotally supported so as to be individually driven to rotate, and are individually urged to the transport drive rollers 51 by a biasing means such as a spring (not shown). The recording paper P is pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the transport drive roller 51 by the transport driven roller 52, and the transport drive roller 51 rotates while being sandwiched between the transport drive roller 51 and the transport driven roller 52, so that the sub scanning direction is reached. It is conveyed to Y.

  On the upstream side of the transport driving roller 51 in the sub-scanning direction Y, a feeding tray 71 on which a large number of recording sheets P can be stacked is disposed. In the feeding tray 71, a recording paper guide 71 a for regulating the stacking position of the recording paper P is provided so as to be slidable in the width direction in accordance with the width of the recording paper P. A feeding roller 72 is disposed in the vicinity of the feeding tray 71. The feeding roller 72 is rotated by the rotational driving force of the PF motor 58 (FIG. 3). The recording sheets P stacked on the feeding tray 71 are pushed by pressing means such as a hopper (not shown), the uppermost side is pushed against the outer peripheral surface of the feeding roller 72, and the feeding roller 72 rotates. Thus, the sheet is fed toward the conveyance drive roller 51. At this time, the other recording paper P is separated from the recording paper P to be fed at the uppermost position by a separation means such as a known separation pad to prevent double feeding. A known paper detector 33 for detecting the leading edge position and trailing edge position of the fed recording paper P in the sub-scanning direction Y is disposed between the feeding roller 72 and the conveyance driving roller 51. Yes.

  Further, the ink jet printer 50 includes a discharge driving roller 54 and a discharge driven roller 55 as means for discharging the recording paper P after execution of recording. The discharge driving roller 54 is rotated by the rotational driving force of the PF motor 58 (FIG. 3). The plurality of discharge driven rollers 55 are pivotally supported so as to be individually driven and rotated, and are individually urged to the discharge drive roller 54 by an urging means such as a spring (not shown). The discharge driven roller 55 has a plurality of teeth around it, and is a toothed roller sharply sharpened so that the tip of each tooth makes point contact with the recording surface of the recording paper P. The recording paper P is pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the discharge drive roller 54 by the discharge driven roller 55, and the discharge drive roller 54 rotates while being sandwiched between the discharge drive roller 54 and the discharge driven roller 55. It is conveyed to Y and discharged.

  In the ink jet printer 50 having such a configuration, a PF motor 58 (FIG. 3) that rotates the feeding roller 72, the conveyance driving roller 51, and the discharge driving roller 54, and a CR motor 63 (FIG. 3) that drives the carriage 61 in the main scanning direction. ) Is controlled by a recording control unit 100 described later. The recording head 62 is similarly controlled by the recording control unit 100. The recording control unit 100 ejects ink from the recording head 62 to the recording paper P while reciprocating the carriage 61 in the main scanning direction X, and transports the recording paper P in the sub-scanning direction Y by a predetermined transport amount. The control to perform recording on the recording paper P is performed while repeating the above.

  A recording control unit 100 as a “recording control device” according to the present invention includes a ROM 101, a RAM 102, an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) 103, a CPU (central processing unit) 104, a nonvolatile memory 105, a PF motor driver 106, a CR A motor driver 107 and a head driver 108 are provided. The ROM 101, RAM 102, ASIC 103, CPU 104, and nonvolatile memory 105 are connected to the system bus of the recording control unit 100. The PF motor driver 106, the CR motor driver 107, and the head driver 108 are connected to the ASIC 103.

  The ROM 101 stores a recording control program (firmware) necessary for controlling the ink jet printer 50 by the CPU 104. The RAM 102 is used as a work area for the CPU 104 and a storage area for image data and the like. The CPU 104 executes a recording control program and performs arithmetic processing for executing recording control of the inkjet printer 50 and other necessary arithmetic processing. For example, gradation number conversion processing for RGB image data, color conversion processing for converting RGB image data into CMYK color system image data, processing for rearranging the image data according to the nozzle arrangement of the recording head 62, and the like. Execute. The nonvolatile memory 105 stores various data necessary for arithmetic processing by the recording control program.

  The ASIC 103 has a control circuit for performing speed control of the PF motor 58 and the CR motor 63 which are DC motors and driving control of the recording head 62. The ASIC 103 performs various calculations for controlling the speeds of the PF motor 58 and the CR motor 63, and sends motor control signals based on the calculation results to the PF motor driver 106 and the CR motor driver 107. Further, the ASIC 103 calculates and generates a control signal for the recording head 62 and sends it to the head driver 108 to control ink ejection of the recording head 62. Further, the ASIC 103 has an interface function with the personal computer 301.

  Further, the ink jet printer 50 includes a rotary encoder 31 that detects the rotation amount of the transport driving roller 51, a linear encoder 32 that detects the movement amount of the carriage 61, and a paper that detects the leading and trailing ends of the recording paper P in the sub-scanning direction Y. A detector 33, a PW sensor 34 for detecting the edge of the recording paper P in the main scanning direction X, and a power switch 35 for turning on / off the power of the inkjet printer 50 are provided.

  The known rotary encoder 31 has a rotary scale 311 that rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the conveyance drive roller 51, and a rotary scale sensor 312 that detects slits formed at equal intervals along the outer periphery of the rotary scale 311. (FIG. 2). An output signal of the rotary scale sensor 312 that changes with the rotation of the transport driving roller 51 is output to the CPU 104 via the ASIC 103.

  A known linear encoder 32 is mounted on the carriage 61 for detecting a linear scale 321 disposed substantially parallel to the main scanning direction X in the vicinity of the carriage 61 and slits formed in the linear scale 321 at equal intervals. And a linear scale sensor 322 (FIG. 2). An output signal of the linear scale sensor 322 in which the pulse period corresponding to the moving amount of the carriage 61 in the main scanning direction X changes with the moving speed is output to the CPU 104 via the ASIC 103.

  The known paper detector 33 is given a self-returning behavior to a standing posture and protrudes into the conveyance path of the recording paper P so as to be able to rotate only in the conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction Y) of the recording paper P. It has a lever pivoted in the state. In the paper detector 33, the lever rotates when the leading end of the lever is pressed against the recording paper P, and thereby the leading end position of the recording paper P fed from the feeding roller 72 and the recording paper P being conveyed. The rear end position is detected. The PW sensor 34 is a non-contact optical sensor. The PW sensor 34 detects both end positions of the recording paper P in the main scanning direction X (both end positions of the recording paper P). Detection signals from the paper detector 33 and the PW sensor 34 are output to the CPU 104 via the ASIC 103.

<First Example of Correction Flag Setting Sequence>
Next, a first embodiment of the correction flag set sequence executed by the recording control unit 100 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG.

FIG. 4 schematically shows image data developed for recording on the recording paper P. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the first embodiment of the correction flag setting sequence.
First, the length L of the correction pattern as the “test pattern” is set (step S1). The correction pattern is a pixel group composed of a plurality of pixels having brightness that can be detected by the PW sensor 34. In the present embodiment, the correction pattern is a pixel group having a length L adjacent in the main scanning direction X. This length L is an arbitrary length that is set in advance, and is a length that can be reliably detected without omission when the correction pattern recorded on the recording surface of the recording paper P is detected by the PW sensor 34. It ’s fine. In this embodiment, the pixel data of the correction pattern is stored in advance in the nonvolatile memory 105.

  Subsequently, the RGB values of the pixels constituting the correction pattern are set. More specifically, the R value of the pixels constituting the correction pattern is e1, the G value is e2, and the B value is e3 (step S2). Subsequently, the image data to be recorded on the recording paper P is developed (step S3). The expanded image data is data of pixels in m rows and n columns, and RGB values are defined for each pixel. A pixel is a minimum unit constituting an image and is also called a pixel. The rows are directions (horizontal directions) corresponding to the main scanning direction X, and the columns are directions (vertical directions) corresponding to the sub-scanning direction Y (FIG. 4).

  Subsequently, among the image data to be recorded on the recording surface of the recording paper P, a pixel that includes a correction pattern and whose RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pixels constituting the correction pattern, or a pixel composed of a plurality of the pixels. Search groups (search means, search procedure). More specifically, it is determined whether or not the RGB value of the pixel in Xm rows and Yn columns (where m and n are the initial values is 1) is less than or equal to the RGB values of the pixels constituting the correction pattern data (step S4). . That is, it is sequentially determined whether or not there is a pixel whose RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pixels constituting the correction pattern in the mth row while incrementing the column number n.

  If there is a pixel whose RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pixels constituting the correction pattern in the mth row (Yes in step S4), pixels having the same RGB value that are consecutive in the row direction including the pixel It is determined whether the group region length is equal to or longer than the correction pattern length L (step S5). When the area length of the pixel group is equal to or longer than the length L of the correction pattern (Yes in step S5), the correction flag is set (step S6), and the procedure of the flowchart ends. On the other hand, when the area length of the pixel group is less than the length L of the correction pattern (No in step S5), the process returns to step S4, and the RGB values form the correction pattern in the mth row. It is determined whether there is another pixel that is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pixel.

  In the m-th row, if there is no pixel group whose RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pixels constituting the correction pattern and whose region length is L or more (No in step S4), the row number m is incremented. (Step S7), it is determined whether or not the line number m exceeds the recording area for the recording paper P (Step S8). If the line number m does not exceed the recording area for the recording paper P (No in step S8), the RGB value of the pixel constituting the correction pattern is displayed in the mth line (next line) after the increment. It is determined whether or not there is a pixel that is less than or equal to the value (step S4). Then, when the line number m exceeds the recording area for the recording paper P (Yes in step S8), that is, in the image data, the RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pixels constituting the correction pattern, and the area length is L. When the above pixel group does not exist, the procedure of the flowchart is ended without setting the correction flag.

  In the flowchart of this embodiment, the correction pattern and the image data are compared based on the RGB values, but it is also possible to compare based on the CMYK values of the image data after the color conversion processing. . When comparing with the CMYK value, the CMYK value of the correction pattern is set in step S2, and in step S4, the pixel whose CMYK value is greater than or equal to the CMYK value of the pixels constituting the correction pattern in the mth row. What is necessary is just to determine whether there exists.

  The correction flag set sequence may be executed every time when recording on the recording paper P is performed, but is limited to an appropriate timing from the viewpoint of minimizing a decrease in throughput. It is preferable to do this.

  As an example of appropriate timing, for example, the first recording execution time after the power of the inkjet printer 50 is turned on can be cited. This is because the ambient environment such as temperature and humidity may be significantly different from the previous operation. The difference in the ambient environment affects the mechanical load, component dimensions, ink ejection speed, etc. This is because the transport error and the deviation amount of the ink landing position are factors. Alternatively, as another example of timing, there is the first recording execution time after changing the type and size of the recording paper P to be recorded. This is because, if the type of the recording paper P is different, the frictional resistance of the surface of the recording paper P may be different, and the conveyance error amount is thereby different. Further, if the size of the recording paper P is different, the conveyance error amount due to the back tension changes.

  Alternatively, another timing example is a timing after recording on a certain number of recording sheets P. This is because the friction coefficient of the peripheral surface of the transport driving roller 51 or the like decreases due to wear or the like, and the transport error amount changes. Alternatively, as another timing example, in the on-carriage inkjet printer 50, it is also effective to set the timing in accordance with the remaining amount of ink in the ink cartridge. This is because the weight of the carriage changes depending on the remaining amount of ink in the ink cartridge. As a result, the deflection amount of the carriage guide shaft 56 fluctuates, PG slightly fluctuates, and the deviation amount of the ink landing position differs. Because it comes.

<First Example of Control Constant Changing Sequence>
Next, a first embodiment of a control constant changing sequence executed by the recording control unit 100 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 6 is a plan view schematically showing a state where the carriage 61 is viewed from the bottom side.
The PW sensor 34 and the recording head 62 are arranged on the bottom surface side of the carriage 61. The PW sensor 34 can detect both end positions of the recording paper P in the main scanning direction X (both end positions of the recording paper P) and can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording paper P. It is a contact optical sensor. Further, four nozzle rows NY, NM, NC, and NK are disposed on the head surface of the recording head 62. In the nozzle rows NY, NM, NC, and NK, an ink ejection nozzle (not shown) as a “dot forming element” that ejects ink onto the recording surface of the recording paper P to form dots extends in the sub-scanning direction Y. N nozzle groups arranged at regular intervals with a predetermined nozzle pitch.

  Yellow ink is ejected from the ink ejection nozzles of the nozzle array NY to form yellow dots. Magenta ink is ejected from the ink ejection nozzles of the nozzle array NM to form magenta dots. Cyan ink is ejected from the ink ejection nozzles of the nozzle array NC to form cyan dots. Black ink is ejected from the ink ejection nozzles of the nozzle row NK to form black dots. On the recording surface of the recording paper P, one pixel is formed by a single dot or a combination of a plurality of dots, and recording is performed. The designated nozzle NK1 is one ink ejecting nozzle belonging to the nozzle row NK, and is arbitrarily designated and selected.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the conveyance correction amount changing sequence which is the first embodiment of the control constant changing sequence. FIG. 8 is a plan view schematically illustrating the operation state of the inkjet printer 50 according to the conveyance correction amount changing sequence.
The sequence of the flowchart is a sequence for setting an optimal conveyance correction amount r corresponding to aging of parts, wear, and the like. The conveyance correction amount r is a control constant for correcting a conveyance error when the recording paper P is conveyed in the sub-scanning direction Y by a predetermined conveyance amount. The type of the recording paper P (plain paper, photographic paper, etc.), size, etc. Are control constants set to different values (r1, r2, r3...) Individually.

  First, it is determined whether or not the correction flag is set by the correction flag setting sequence (FIG. 5) (step S11). If the correction flag is not set (No in step S11), the procedure of the flowchart is ended as it is. On the other hand, when the correction flag is set (Yes in step S11), the distance d in the sub-scanning direction Y from the position of the designated nozzle NK1 to the detection position of the PW sensor 34 is set (step S12). . This distance d is the number of transport steps in which the physical distance in the sub-scanning direction Y from the position of the designated nozzle NK1 to the detection position of the PW sensor 34 is one pulse of the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder 31. It is a converted value.

  The designated nozzle NK1 may be designated by selecting an arbitrary nozzle each time, or may be fixedly set in advance. In addition, as the distance d, a value corresponding to one or a plurality of nozzles may be stored in advance in the nonvolatile memory 105 as necessary.

  Subsequently, the recording paper P is fed, and the pixel group searched by the correction flag set sequence (RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pixels constituting the correction pattern and the length in the main scanning direction X is equal to or longer than the length L. The correction pattern S is recorded using the designated nozzle NK1 in a portion where the pixel group) is to be formed (step S13 (first recording control means, first recording control procedure)). More specifically, after the recording paper P is fed, the recording paper P is moved to the position where the designated nozzle NK1 performs recording in the portion where the pixel group searched by the correction flag set sequence is to be formed. Transport to Y (FIG. 8A). In this state, the recording head 62 is reciprocated in the main scanning direction X, and the specified nozzle NK1 is used to correct the length L in the portion where the pixel group searched by the correction flag set sequence is to be formed. A pattern S is recorded (FIG. 8B).

  Subsequently, the cumulative transport amount Np of the recording paper P by the transport driving roller 51 is reset to 0 (step S14). This cumulative transport amount Np is a cumulative value obtained by adding or subtracting the number of transport steps in which one pulse of the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder 31 is one step according to the rotation direction. From this state, after the carriage 61 is moved so that the recorded correction pattern S and the PW sensor 34 are in a positional relationship corresponding to the main scanning direction X, the conveyance driving roller 51 starts to rotate in the forward rotation direction. Then, the recording paper P is conveyed in the sub-scanning direction Y until the correction pattern S is detected by the PW sensor 34 (step S16 (detection means, detection procedure)).

  When the correction pattern S is detected by the PW sensor 34 (Yes in step S16, FIG. 8C), the value obtained by subtracting the distance d from the accumulated conveyance amount Np at that time is multiplied by a predetermined constant α and conveyed. A correction amount r is calculated. And the conveyance correction amount r memorize | stored in the non-volatile memory 105 is changed and updated (step S17 (control change means, control change procedure)), and the procedure of the said flowchart is complete | finished. The constant α is a constant that can be arbitrarily set according to how the transport correction amount r is defined. For example, if the constant α is a value obtained by dividing the number of transport steps corresponding to 1 inch by the number of transport steps of the distance d, the transport correction amount r is the transport error amount generated per inch. Alternatively, if the number of transport steps at the distance d is a constant α, the transport correction amount r is a transport error amount generated per transport step.

  After executing the above-described conveyance correction amount changing sequence, the recording control unit 100 conveys the recording paper P to a predetermined recording start position, forms all the pixels of the image data on the recording surface, and executes recording. The normal recording control is executed (second recording control means, second recording control procedure). The pixel group searched in the correction flag set sequence (FIG. 5) is formed so as to overlap the portion on the recording surface of the recording paper P where the correction pattern S is recorded, so that the correction pattern S cannot be visually recognized at all. Or make it almost unrecognizable. That is, since the pixel or the pixel group of the same color as the correction pattern S or a darker color is formed in an area including the area where the correction pattern S is recorded, the correction pattern S is covered. Can be hidden.

  That is, the recording control unit 100 according to the present invention uses the recording paper P to perform correction before executing recording of a photographic image or the like to be originally recorded on the recording surface of the recording paper P to be recorded. The pattern S for recording is recorded on the recording surface, and the correction pattern S is detected by the PW sensor 34. Then, the conveyance correction amount r is changed based on the detection state of the correction pattern S, and then all the pixels of the image data are formed on the recording surface of the recording paper P so as to overlap. As a result, the conveyance control of the recording paper P can be executed with the optimal conveyance correction amount r corresponding to the secular change and wear of the components without wasting the unused recording paper P. Since these can be executed in the process of recording a photographic image or the like to be recorded on the recording paper P, the user does not need to perform a special operation. Furthermore, it is not necessary to use special dedicated recording paper, and general-purpose recording paper P can be used.

  In this way, according to the recording control unit 100 according to the present invention, in a recording apparatus such as the inkjet printer 50 that can execute recording on the general-purpose recording paper P, without requiring a user to perform a special operation, and Optimal recording control can be executed in response to aging and wear of parts without wasting unused recording paper P.

<Second Example of Control Constant Changing Sequence>
Next, a second embodiment of the control constant changing sequence executed by the recording control unit 100 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the Bi-d correction amount changing sequence which is the second embodiment of the control constant changing sequence. FIG. 10 is a plan view schematically illustrating the operation state of the inkjet printer 50 according to the Bi-d correction amount changing sequence.
The sequence of the flowchart is a sequence for setting an optimal Bi-d correction amount xr corresponding to aging of parts, wear, and the like. The Bi-d correction amount xr is a pixel formation position when the pixel is formed while moving the recording head 62 in the forward direction XL, and a pixel formation position when the pixel is formed while moving the recording head 62 in the backward direction XR. Is a control constant for correcting the relative positional deviation.

  Here, in this embodiment, it is necessary to record a plurality of correction patterns on the recording paper P, but a predetermined number of image groups having RGB values equal to or less than the RGB values of the pixels constituting the correction pattern could be detected. The correction flag set sequence (FIG. 5) may be changed as appropriate so that the correction flag is set on the condition. In this embodiment, it is necessary to record a correction pattern formed by pixels that are continuous in the row direction. However, the correction flag set sequence ( FIG. 5) may be changed as appropriate.

  First, it is determined whether or not the correction flag is set by the correction flag setting sequence (FIG. 5) (step S21). If the correction flag is not set (No in step S21), the procedure of the flowchart is ended as it is. On the other hand, when the correction flag is set (Yes in step S21), the recording paper P is fed, and the carriage 61 is moved in the forward direction XL, and the search is performed with the correction flag setting sequence. The correction patterns SL1 to SL5 are recorded in a portion where a pixel group (a pixel group whose RGB values are equal to or less than the RGB values of the pixels constituting the correction pattern) is to be formed (step S22 (first recording control means, first 1 recording control procedure), FIG. 10 (a)).

  Subsequently, while moving the carriage 61 in the backward direction XR, a pixel group (pixel group whose RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pixels constituting the correction pattern) searched for in the correction flag set sequence is to be formed. The correction patterns SR1 to SR5 are recorded on the portion while increasing or decreasing the Bi-d correction amount stepwise (step S23 (first recording control means, first recording control procedure), FIG. 10B).

  The correction patterns SL1 to SL5 and the correction patterns SR1 to SR5 are correction patterns that are paired with the same number, and the same recording number has the same control recording position in the main scanning direction X. In addition, although the correction patterns SL1 to SL5 and the correction patterns SR1 to SR5 are illustrated in an orderly manner for convenience of explanation in FIG. 10, they are not necessarily required to be so. In other words, as long as the recording positions in the main scanning direction X of the correction patterns of the same number pair are the same, they may be recorded at different positions in accordance with the positions of the pixel groups searched in the correction flag set sequence. .

  Subsequently, the relative positional relationship between the correction patterns SL1 to SL5 formed while moving the carriage 61 in the forward direction XL and the correction patterns SR1 to SR5 formed while moving the carriage 61 in the backward direction XR is specified. . More specifically, first, the correction patterns SL1 to SL5 are detected by the PW sensor 34, and the distance A in the main scanning direction X from the side edge PR of the recording paper P is calculated for each of them (step S24 (detection means) , Detection procedure), FIG. 10 (c)). Next, the correction patterns SR1 to SR5 are detected by the PW sensor 34, and the distance B in the main scanning direction X from the side edge PR of the recording paper P is calculated for each of them (step S25 (detection means, detection procedure)). FIG. 10 (c)).

  Then, the correction pattern pair having the smallest difference between the distance A and the distance B is specified, and the Bi-d correction amount when the correction pattern pair is recorded is the Bi-d stored in the nonvolatile memory 105. The correction amount xr is updated (step S26 (control change means, control change procedure)), and the procedure of the flowchart ends. After executing the above Bi-d correction amount changing sequence, the recording control unit 100 conveys the recording paper P to a predetermined recording start position, and forms all the pixels of the image data on the recording surface for recording. The normal recording control is executed (second recording control means, second recording control procedure).

  In this way, in a recording apparatus such as the ink jet printer 50 that can perform recording on a general-purpose recording paper P, unused recording paper P is wasted without requiring a special operation from the user. Instead, the so-called Bi-d adjustment control constant can be set to an optimum control constant in response to aging of parts, wear, and the like.

<Third embodiment of control constant changing sequence>
Next, a third embodiment of the control constant changing sequence executed by the recording control unit 100 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a nozzle check sequence that is a third embodiment of the control constant changing sequence. FIG. 12 is a plan view schematically showing a state in which the check pattern is recorded on the recording surface of the recording paper P by the nozzle check sequence.
The sequence of the flowchart detects nozzle clogging of the ink ejection nozzles arranged on the head surface of the recording head 62, identifies the ink ejection nozzle where the nozzle clogging has occurred, and defines the use nozzle accordingly. In this sequence, the control constant is changed to prevent a drop in recording accuracy due to missing dots. Here, in this embodiment, it is necessary to record a plurality of check patterns on the recording paper P, but it is possible to detect a predetermined number of image groups whose RGB values are equal to or less than the RGB values of the pixels constituting each check pattern. The correction flag set sequence (FIG. 5) may be appropriately changed so that the correction flag is set in the condition.

  First, it is determined whether or not the correction flag is set by the correction flag setting sequence (FIG. 5) (step S31). If the correction flag is not set (No in step S31), the procedure of the flowchart is ended as it is. On the other hand, when the correction flag is set (Yes in step S31), the recording paper P is fed, and all the ink ejecting nozzles of the recording head 62 are used to execute the correction flag setting sequence. A check pattern as a “test pattern” is recorded on the recording surface of the recording paper P in a portion where a pixel group (pixel values whose RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the pixels constituting the check pattern data) to be formed is to be formed. (First recording control means, first recording control procedure).

  More specifically, first, all of the N ink ejection nozzles of the nozzle row NY are used, and the check patterns YS1 to YSN corresponding to the respective ink ejection nozzles are individually ejected from the corresponding ink ejection nozzles. (Step S32). For example, the check pattern YS1 is recorded using the first ink ejection nozzle of the nozzle row NY, and the check pattern YS2 is recorded using the second ink ejection nozzle of the nozzle row NY.

  Similarly, check patterns MS1 to MSN corresponding to the respective ink ejection nozzles are individually recorded by ejecting ink from the corresponding ink ejection nozzles using all the N ink ejection nozzles of the nozzle array NM (Step S1). S33). Similarly, check patterns CS1 to CSN corresponding to each ink ejecting nozzle are individually recorded by ejecting ink from the corresponding ink ejecting nozzle by using all N ink ejecting nozzles of the nozzle array NC (step). S34). Similarly, check patterns KS1 to KSN corresponding to each ink ejecting nozzle are individually recorded by ejecting ink from the corresponding ink ejecting nozzle by using all N ink ejecting nozzles of the nozzle array NK (step). S35).

  Although the check patterns YS1 to YSN, the check patterns MS1 to MSN, the check patterns CS1 to CSN, and the check patterns KS1 to KSN are illustrated in an orderly and side-by-side manner for convenience of explanation in FIG. There is no need to make it. That is, it may be recorded at different positions in accordance with the position of the pixel group searched in the correction flag set sequence.

  Subsequently, all check patterns are scanned by the PW sensor 34 (step S36 (detection means, detection procedure)), and it is determined whether or not all check patterns have been detected (step S37). If all the check patterns have been detected (Yes in step S37), the procedure of the flowchart is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, if all the check patterns cannot be detected (No in step S37), the ink ejection nozzles in which dots cannot be formed due to nozzle clogging are identified from the check pattern detection state. Then, the use nozzle pattern (use nozzle is defined) stored in the non-volatile memory 105 so that the specified ink jet nozzle is disabled and replaced with another ink jet nozzle in the same nozzle row. (Control constant) is changed and updated (step S38 (control change means, control change procedure)), and the procedure of the flowchart ends.

  Then, after executing the nozzle check sequence described above, the recording control unit 100 carries the recording by conveying the recording paper P to a predetermined recording start position and forming all the pixels of the image data on the recording surface. Recording control is executed (second recording control means, second recording control procedure). In step S38, instead of disabling the ink ejection nozzles that cannot form dots due to nozzle clogging or the like, predetermined head cleaning control is executed to eliminate nozzle clogging of the ink ejection nozzles. Anyway.

  In this way, in a recording apparatus such as the ink jet printer 50 that can perform recording on a general-purpose recording paper P, unused recording paper P is wasted without requiring a special operation from the user. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility of a decrease in recording accuracy due to missing dots.

<Second Embodiment of Correction Flag Setting Sequence>
Next, a second embodiment of the correction flag set sequence executed by the recording control unit 100 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the second embodiment of the correction flag setting sequence.
First, the length L of the correction pattern as the “test pattern” is set (step S41). This length L is an arbitrary length that is set in advance, and is a length that can be reliably detected without omission when the correction pattern recorded on the recording surface of the recording paper P is detected by the PW sensor 34. It ’s fine. Subsequently, the upper limit value of the RGB value of the pixel that can be detected by the PW sensor 34 is set. More specifically, the upper limit value of the R value of the pixel that can be detected by the PW sensor 34 is e1, the upper limit value of the G value is e2, and the upper limit value of the B value is e3 (step S42).

  Subsequently, the image data to be recorded on the recording paper P is developed (step S43), and the upper limit value of the RGB value of the pixel that can be detected by the PW sensor 34 from the image data (hereinafter referred to as the RGB upper limit value). ) A pixel group consisting of the following pixels or a plurality of the pixels is searched (search means, search procedure). More specifically, it is determined whether or not the RGB value of the pixel in Xm rows and Yn columns (where m and n are the initial values is 1) is less than or equal to the RGB upper limit value (step S44). That is, it is sequentially determined whether there is a pixel whose RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB upper limit value in the mth row while incrementing the column number n.

  When there is a pixel whose RGB value is less than or equal to the RGB upper limit value in the mth row (Yes in step S44), the region length of the pixel group having the same RGB value continuous in the row direction including the pixel is the length. It is determined whether or not it is greater than or equal to L (step S45). When the area length of the pixel group is equal to or longer than the length L (Yes in step S45), a correction flag is set (step S46), and the procedure of the flowchart is ended. On the other hand, when the area length of the pixel group is less than the length L (No in step S45), the process returns to step S44, and another pixel whose RGB value is less than or equal to the RGB upper limit value is returned to the mth row. Determine if it exists.

  When there is no pixel group whose RGB value is less than or equal to the RGB upper limit value and whose area length is L or more in the mth row (No in step S44), the row number m is incremented (step S47), It is determined whether or not the number m exceeds the recording area for the recording paper P (step S48). If the line number m does not exceed the recording area for the recording paper P (No in step S48), there is a pixel whose RGB value is less than or equal to the RGB upper limit value in the mth line after the increment (next line). It is determined whether or not to perform (step S44). When the line number m exceeds the recording area for the recording paper P (Yes in step S48), that is, there is a pixel group in the image data whose RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB upper limit value and whose area length is equal to or greater than L. If not, the procedure of the flowchart is terminated without setting the correction flag.

  In the flowchart of this embodiment, the correction pattern and the image data are compared based on the RGB values, but it is also possible to compare based on the CMYK values of the image data after the color conversion processing. The point is the same as in the first embodiment. When comparing with the CMYK values, in step S42, the lower limit value of the CMYK values of the pixels that can be detected by the PW sensor 34 (hereinafter referred to as the CMYK lower limit value) is set. In step S44, the mth row is set. It is sufficient to determine whether or not there is a pixel whose CMYK value is equal to or greater than the CMYK lower limit value.

  As described above, if a pixel group including the shape of the correction pattern S that can be detected by the PW sensor 34 is searched from the image data, a part or all of the searched pixel group in the subsequent control constant change sequence. As the correction pattern S or the like. That is, in step S13 of FIG. 7, step S23 of FIG. 9, and steps S32 to S35 of FIG. 11, a correction pattern or a check pattern prepared in advance is not recorded on the recording paper P, but a part of the image data. Record as a correction pattern or check pattern. The retrieved pixel group is a part of the image data that is originally intended to be recorded on the recording paper P. Therefore, after using a part or all of the searched pixel group as a correction pattern or check pattern, the remaining pixels of the image data are formed on the recording surface of the recording paper P, or all the pixels are overlapped. When recording is performed, the image originally intended to be recorded on the recording paper P can be completed on the recording surface of the recording paper P.

  In this case, since the correction pattern or check pattern recorded earlier is a part of the image data originally intended to be recorded on the recording paper P, the completed image is formed by forming all the pixels on the recording surface of the recording paper P. It does not affect. Therefore, in a recording apparatus such as the ink jet printer 50 that can execute recording on a general-purpose recording paper P, a component is not required without requiring a special operation from the user and without consuming unused recording paper P. It is possible to execute optimum recording control corresponding to the secular change, wear, and the like.

<Other embodiments>
The processing of each flowchart illustrated in FIGS. 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13 is configured as a software program, and can be realized by executing the software program by the CPU 104 of the recording control unit 100. In addition, it can be realized by a hardware circuit.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention described in the claims, and these are also included in the scope of the present invention. Needless to say.

1 is a schematic plan view of an ink jet printer. 1 is a schematic side view of an inkjet printer. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an inkjet printer. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of image data developed for recording on recording paper. The flowchart of 1st Example of a correction flag set sequence. The top view which illustrated typically the state which looked at the carriage from the bottom face side. The flowchart of 1st Example of a control constant change sequence. Printer operating status based on the conveyance correction amount change sequence. The flowchart of 2nd Example of a control constant change sequence. The operation state of the printer according to the Bi-d correction amount change sequence. The flowchart of 3rd Example of a control constant change sequence. The top view which illustrated the state which recorded the nozzle check pattern on the recording paper. The flowchart of 2nd Example of a correction flag set sequence.

Explanation of symbols

31 Rotary encoder, 32 Linear encoder, 50 Ink jet printer, 51 Conveyance drive roller, 52 Conveyance driven roller, 53 Platen, 54 Discharge drive roller, 55 Discharge driven roller, 56 Carriage guide shaft, 61 Carriage, 62 Recording head, 100 Recording control Part, X main scanning direction, Y sub-scanning direction

Claims (9)

Recording that performs recording control of a recording apparatus that includes a pixel forming device that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, and a sensor that can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming device. In the control device,
Among the image data to be recorded on the recording surface of the recording material, the predetermined test pattern is included and the RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the predetermined test pattern data or the CMYK value after color conversion is the predetermined test pattern data. Search means for searching for a pixel that is equal to or greater than the CMYK value or a pixel group comprising a plurality of the pixels;
First recording control means for recording the predetermined test pattern in a portion where an image based on the pixel or pixel group searched by the search means on the recording surface of the recording material is to be formed;
Detecting means for detecting the predetermined test pattern recorded on the recording surface of the recording material by the first recording control means with the sensor;
Control changing means for executing predetermined control or changing a predetermined control constant based on a detection state of the predetermined test pattern in the detection means;
Second recording control means for forming an image on the recording surface of the recording material on which the predetermined test pattern is recorded on the recording surface by the first recording control means, based on the image data. A recording control device characterized by the above. The recording control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording apparatus includes a conveyance device that conveys a recording material in a predetermined conveyance direction,
The control changing means detects the recording material conveyance position when the first recording control means records the predetermined test pattern on the recording surface of the recording material and the detection means detects the predetermined test pattern. A recording control device that changes a control constant for correcting a conveyance error when the recording material is conveyed by a predetermined conveyance amount based on a difference from a conveyance position of the recording material. . The recording control device according to claim 1, wherein the pixel forming device includes a recording head that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, and the recording head in a direction that intersects a conveyance direction of the recording material by the conveyance device. A head transport device that reciprocates the head,
The first recording control means forms pixels while moving the recording head in the forward direction and forms pixels while moving the recording head in the backward direction, and records the predetermined test pattern on the recording material. Record on the surface,
The control change unit is configured to move the recording head in the forward direction based on a relative positional relationship between a pixel formed while moving the recording head in the forward direction and a pixel formed while moving the recording head in the backward direction. Changing a control constant for correcting a relative positional deviation between a pixel formation position when the pixel is formed while being moved and a pixel formation position when the pixel is formed while the recording head is moved in the backward direction. A recording control device characterized by the above. The recording control device according to claim 1, wherein the pixel forming device includes a recording head having a plurality of dot forming elements for forming dots on a recording surface of a recording material,
The first recording control means records the predetermined test pattern using all the dot forming elements of the recording head,
The control change unit specifies a dot formation element in a state where dots cannot be formed from the detection state of the predetermined test pattern in the detection unit, and disables a dot formation element in a state where dots cannot be formed. A recording control apparatus, wherein a control constant is changed so as to be replaced by another dot forming element, or predetermined head cleaning control is executed.   5. The recording control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least the first recording is performed after turning on the power of the recording apparatus or the first after changing the type of the recording material on which recording is performed. A recording control apparatus for executing recording control by the search means, the first recording control means, the detection means, the control change means, and the second recording control means during the recording execution. Recording that performs recording control of a recording apparatus that includes a pixel forming device that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material, and a sensor that can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming device. In the control device,
Search means for searching for a pixel group consisting of a plurality of pixels or brightness pixels that can be detected by the sensor from image data to be recorded on a recording surface of a recording material;
First recording control means for forming an image based on a pixel or pixel group searched by the search means in the image data on a recording surface of a recording material;
Detecting means for detecting, by the sensor, a pixel or a pixel group formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the first recording control means;
Control change means for executing predetermined control or changing a predetermined control constant based on a detection state of a pixel or a pixel group in the detection means;
An image based on all pixels of the image data or a pixel formed on the recording surface by the first recording control unit on the recording surface of the recording material on which a pixel or a pixel group is formed on the recording surface by the first recording control unit And a second recording control means for forming an image based on all the pixels other than the recording control device. A pixel forming device for forming pixels on the recording surface of the recording material;
A sensor capable of detecting pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming device;
A recording apparatus comprising: the recording control apparatus according to claim 1. Recording control of a recording apparatus including a pixel forming device that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material and a sensor that can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming device is executed on a computer In the recording control program to be
Among the image data to be recorded on the recording surface of the recording material, the predetermined test pattern is included and the RGB value is equal to or less than the RGB value of the predetermined test pattern data or the CMYK value after color conversion is the predetermined test pattern data. A search procedure for searching for a pixel that is equal to or greater than a CMYK value or a pixel group comprising a plurality of the pixels;
A first recording control procedure for recording the predetermined test pattern in a portion where an image based on the pixel or pixel group searched in the search procedure on the recording surface of the recording material is to be formed;
A detection procedure in which the sensor detects the predetermined test pattern recorded on the recording surface of the recording material in the first recording control procedure;
A control change procedure for executing predetermined control or changing a predetermined control constant based on the detection state of the predetermined test pattern in the detection procedure;
Executing a second recording control procedure for forming an image on the recording surface of the recording material on which the predetermined test pattern is recorded on the recording surface by the first recording control procedure, based on the image data. A unique recording control program. Recording control of a recording apparatus including a pixel forming device that forms pixels on a recording surface of a recording material and a sensor that can detect pixels formed on the recording surface of the recording material by the pixel forming device is executed on a computer In the recording control program to be
A search procedure for searching for a pixel group of lightness pixels or a plurality of the pixels that can be detected by the sensor from image data to be recorded on the recording surface of the recording material;
A first recording control procedure for forming an image based on a pixel or a pixel group searched in the search procedure among the image data on a recording surface of a recording material;
A detection procedure for detecting, with the sensor, a pixel or a pixel group formed on the recording surface of the recording material in the first recording control procedure;
A control change procedure for executing a predetermined control or changing a predetermined control constant based on a detection state of a pixel or a pixel group in the detection procedure;
An image based on all pixels of the image data or a pixel formed on the recording surface by the first recording control procedure on the recording surface of the recording material on which a pixel or a pixel group is formed on the recording surface by the first recording control procedure And a second recording control procedure for forming an image based on all pixels other than the recording control program.

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