JP2010269465A - Recording apparatus, control method and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a recording apparatus which can detect such a state that an inclination amount in a sub-scan direction of a carriage differs according to a position in a main scan direction. <P>SOLUTION: A test pattern (100) which is comprised of a plurality of marks (101 and 102) arranged in the sub-scan direction on a platen plate (31) and disposed by a plurality of the number in the main scan direction is detected by using a reading sensor (30). The inclination amount θ in the sub-scan direction of the carriage (5) which is obtained from a relationship between a measured distance LN' between the plurality of marks (101 and 102) obtained when the reading sensor (30) detects each test pattern (100) and a theoretical distance Ln between the plurality of marks (101 and 102) set beforehand is calculated. It is determined that the inclination amount θ in the sub-scan direction of the carriage (5) differs according to a position in the main scan direction when a fluctuation amount (Δθ) caused by a position in the main scan direction of the inclination amount θ in the sub-scan direction of the carriage (5) calculated for each test pattern (100) is not smaller than a predetermined threshold (α). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a recording apparatus such as an ink jet printer.

  An ink jet recording apparatus ejects ink from a recording head mounted on a carriage during reciprocating movement in the main scanning direction, deposits ink on the recording medium, and forms a one-line image on the recording medium. Then, the recording medium is conveyed in the sub-scanning direction using a conveyance roller or the like, and the formation of one line image is repeated to form an image on the recording medium.

  However, when the recording medium is conveyed using the conveyance roller, there is a problem that the conveyance amount (feed amount) of the recording medium varies due to the attachment state of the conveyance roller, the eccentricity of the conveyance roller, or the like. When the conveyance amount of the recording medium fluctuates, an image is formed at a position different from the original formation position (ideal position) where an image of one line is formed on the recording medium.

  Therefore, as a technical document filed prior to the present invention, a test pattern is recorded on a recording medium using a recording head mounted on a carriage, and the conveyance direction of the recording medium is based on the test pattern. There is a document that discloses a technique for detecting the amount of misalignment and correcting the rotation amount of the transport roller (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In the technique of Patent Document 1, a reference pattern (first pattern) is recorded on a sheet (recording medium) using an upstream nozzle of a recording head 201 mounted on a carriage (for example, FIG. 21A), and recording is performed. An adjustment pattern (second pattern) is recorded on a sheet using the downstream nozzles of the head 201 (for example, FIG. 21B), and an adjustment patch is formed at the first position (phase) of the transport roller. Then, the adjustment patch is measured using the reflective optical sensor 130, and the amount of dot shift at the first position (phase) is derived. In addition, the same processing as described above is performed to derive the dot shift amount at the second position (phase). Next, an average shift amount is calculated from the dot shift amount at the first position (phase) and the dot shift amount at the second position (phase), and pulse adjustment corresponding to the calculated average shift amount is performed. The correct command pulse value is derived from the value and theoretical command pulse value. Then, the derived correct command pulse value is set as the rotation amount of the transport roller, and the transport roller is driven based on the set pulse value. As described above, in the technique of Patent Document 1, the adjustment patch is formed on the sheet while moving the recording head 201 mounted on the carriage in the main scanning direction, and the reflection type optical sensor (detection unit) 130 is also provided. Similar to the recording head 201, the adjustment patch is measured while moving in the main scanning direction, and the amount of dot deviation is derived.

  The technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 is based on the premise that the position of the nozzle that ejects ink does not vary in the sub-scanning direction. However, when the carriage tilts in the sub-scanning direction, the nozzle angle moves in the sub-scanning direction. Even if the carriage is tilted in the sub-scanning direction, if the angle of the carriage tilted in the sub-scanning direction (the amount of tilt of the carriage in the sub-scanning direction) is always constant at the position in the main scanning direction, the technique of Patent Document 1 also has a problem. There is no. However, when the amount of inclination of the carriage in the sub-scanning direction varies according to the position of the carriage in the main scanning direction, the recording position of the recording head mounted on the carriage also varies, and the test pattern (first pattern) The pattern, the second pattern) itself is not accurate. Even if the rotation amount of the transport roller is adjusted based on the amount of dot shift obtained from an inaccurate test pattern, incorrect adjustment is performed, and as a result, the rotation amount of the transport roller cannot be adjusted correctly. Become.

  For this reason, when the amount of inclination of the carriage in the sub-scanning direction varies depending on the position in the main scanning direction, the amount of inclination of the carriage in the sub-scanning direction is adjusted manually, or the carriage, guide rod, etc. are replaced. There is a need.

  For this reason, it is necessary to develop a mechanism for detecting a state in which the amount of inclination of the carriage in the sub-scanning direction differs depending on the position in the main scanning direction.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a recording apparatus, a control method, and a program capable of detecting a state in which the amount of inclination of the carriage in the sub-scanning direction varies depending on the position in the main scanning direction. The purpose is to do.

  In order to achieve this object, the present invention has the following features.

<Recording device>
The recording apparatus according to the present invention includes:
A recording apparatus that scans a carriage in a main scanning direction and records an image on a recording medium using a recording head mounted on the carriage,
Detecting means mounted on the carriage and detecting a plurality of test patterns composed of a plurality of marks arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the test chart or on the platen by scanning the carriage in the main scanning direction;
In the sub-scanning direction of the carriage obtained from the relationship between the measured distance between the plurality of marks obtained by the detection means detecting each test pattern and the theoretical distance between the plurality of predetermined marks. A calculating means for calculating the amount of inclination;
When the amount of variation in the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage calculated by the calculation means for each test pattern is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage is the main amount. Judging means for judging that the position differs depending on the position in the scanning direction;
It is characterized by providing.

<Control method>
The control method according to the present invention includes:
A control method performed by a recording apparatus that scans a carriage in a main scanning direction and records an image on a recording medium using a recording head mounted on the carriage,
Detection that uses a detection means mounted on the carriage to detect a plurality of test patterns that are composed of a plurality of marks arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the test chart or on the platen plate and arranged in the main scanning direction. Process,
In the sub-scanning direction of the carriage obtained from the relationship between the measured distance between the plurality of marks obtained by detecting each test pattern in the detection step and the theoretical distance between the plurality of predetermined marks. A calculation step for calculating the amount of inclination;
When the amount of variation in the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage calculated for each test pattern in the calculation step is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage is the main amount. A determination step of determining that the position differs depending on the position in the scanning direction;
It is characterized by having.

<Program>
The program according to the present invention is:
A program that is executed by a recording apparatus that scans a carriage in a main scanning direction and records an image on a recording medium using a recording head mounted on the carriage,
Detection that uses a detection means mounted on the carriage to detect a plurality of test patterns that are composed of a plurality of marks arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the test chart or on the platen plate and arranged in the main scanning direction. Processing,
In the sub-scanning direction of the carriage obtained from the relationship between the measured distance between the plurality of marks obtained by detecting each test pattern in the detection process and the theoretical distance between the plurality of predetermined marks. A calculation process for calculating the amount of inclination;
When the amount of variation in the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage calculated for each test pattern in the calculation process is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage is the main amount. A determination process for determining that the position varies depending on the position in the scanning direction;
Is executed by a computer.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to detect a state in which the amount of inclination of the carriage in the sub-scanning direction varies depending on the position in the main scanning direction.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of a mechanism unit of a recording apparatus according to an embodiment. It is a figure which shows the fluctuation | variation of the conveyance amount in one conveyance roller period. It is a figure which shows the difference in the conveyance amount by the shape of a conveyance roller. It is a figure which shows the change of the conveyance amount by the position (phase) of a conveyance roller. 1 is a first diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of a printing mechanism of a recording apparatus according to an embodiment. It is a 2nd figure which shows the schematic structural example of the printing mechanism of the recording device of this embodiment. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a reading sensor 30. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the example of calculation of the distance between marks 101 and 102; Ln '. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the control mechanism of the recording device of this embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a state where the carriage 5 is not tilted. FIG. 6 is a view showing a state where the carriage 5 is inclined by a predetermined angle (θ). It is a figure which shows the 1st processing operation example of the recording device of this embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of processing operation when calculating an inclination amount; θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction. It is a figure which shows the 2nd processing operation example of the recording device of this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the processing operation example of the recording device of 2nd Embodiment. It is a 1st figure which shows the schematic structural example of the printing mechanism of the recording device of 3rd Embodiment. It is a 2nd figure which shows the example of schematic structure of the printing mechanism of the recording device of 3rd Embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a state where the carriage 5 is not tilted. FIG. 6 is a view showing a state where the carriage 5 is inclined by a predetermined angle (θ). 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a test chart 300. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating a prior art.

(Outline of the recording apparatus of the present embodiment)
First, the outline of the recording apparatus of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5, 6, 10, 11, and 12.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the recording apparatus of the present embodiment scans the carriage 5 in the main scanning direction, and records an image on a recording medium using the recording head 6 mounted on the carriage 5. It is.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the recording apparatus of the present embodiment includes a test sensor 100 that includes a plurality of marks 101 and 102 arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the platen plate 31 and a reading sensor 30 that is mounted on the carriage 5. To detect (step A2). Then, a measured distance between a plurality of marks 101, 102 obtained by detecting the test pattern 100; Ln ′ (Ln ′ shown in FIG. 11) and a theoretical distance between a plurality of predetermined marks 101, 102; Ln (FIG. (Ln shown in FIG. 10) and the relationship (Ln ′ = Ln × cos θ) and the inclination amount of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ is calculated (step A3).

  The printing apparatus according to the present embodiment calculates the inclination amount θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction for each test pattern 100 arranged in the main scanning direction on the platen plate 31 (steps A1 to A5). The amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage 5 calculated every time; when the amount of variation (Δθ) due to the position of θ in the main scanning direction is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (α) (step A6 / Yes), the sub-scanning of the carriage 5 It is determined that the inclination amount of the direction; θ varies depending on the position in the main scanning direction. As a result, it is possible to detect a state in which the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ differs depending on the position in the main scanning direction.

  Note that the recording apparatus of the present embodiment uses a reading sensor 30 mounted on a carriage 5 with a test pattern 100 composed of a plurality of marks 101 and 102 arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the test chart 300 shown in FIG. In the same manner as the processing shown in FIG. 12 described above, it is also possible to calculate the inclination amount θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ for each test pattern 100 arranged in the main scanning direction on the test chart 300. It is possible to detect a state in which the inclination amount of 5 in the sub-scanning direction; Hereinafter, the recording apparatus of the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(First embodiment)
<Example of schematic configuration of mechanism of recording apparatus>
First, a schematic configuration example of a mechanism unit of the recording apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the recording apparatus of the present embodiment, the main support guide rod 3 and the sub support guide rod 4 are horizontally mounted between the side plates 1 and 2 on both sides in a substantially horizontal positional relationship, and the main support guide rod 3 and the sub support guide rod 4 The carriage 5 is configured to be slidably supported in the main scanning direction.

  The carriage 5 has four recording heads 6y, 6m, 6c, and 6k that discharge yellow (Y) ink, magenta (M) ink, cyan (C) ink, and black (Bk) ink. ) Facing down. Further, the carriage 5 has four ink cartridges 7 (reference numeral “7” is indicated by reference numeral “6” means any one of “6y, 6m, 6c, 6k” or a generic name). "7y, 7m, 7c, 7k" or a generic name) is mounted interchangeably. The ink cartridge 7 is an ink supply body for each color for supplying ink to the four recording heads 6. The carriage 5 is connected to a timing belt 11 stretched between a driving pulley (drive timing pulley) 9 and a driven pulley (idler pulley) 10 that are rotated by the main scanning motor 8, and drives and controls the main scanning motor 8. By doing so, it is configured to move in the main scanning direction. The movement in the main scanning direction is controlled based on an encoder value obtained by providing an encoder sensor 41 on the carriage 5 and detecting the mark on the encoder sheet 40 by the encoder sensor 41.

  Further, the recording apparatus of the present embodiment is configured such that the subframes 13 and 14 are erected on the bottom plate 12 that connects the side plates 1 and 2, and the transport roller 15 is rotatably held between the subframes 13 and 14. ing. A sub-scanning motor 17 is disposed on the sub-frame 14 side, and in order to transmit the rotation of the sub-scanning motor 17 to the conveying roller 15, a gear 18 fixed to the rotation shaft of the sub-scanning motor 17 and the conveying roller 15 And a gear 19 fixed to the shaft.

  Further, between the side plate 1 and the subframe 12, a reliability maintaining and recovering mechanism (hereinafter referred to as “subsystem”) 21 of the recording head 6 is disposed. The sub-system 21 is configured by holding four cap means 22 for capping the ejection surface of the recording head 6 by a holder 23 and holding the holder 23 by a link member 24 so as to be swingable. Then, when the carriage 5 moves in the main scanning direction and the carriage 5 comes into contact with the engaging portion 25 provided in the holder 23, the holder 23 lifts up, and the cap means 22 caps the ejection surface of the recording head 6. Like to do. Further, when the carriage 5 moves to the print area side, the holder 23 is lifted down so that the cap means 22 is separated from the ejection surface of the recording head 6.

  The cap means 22 is connected to the suction pump 27 via the suction tube 26, forms an atmosphere opening port, and communicates with the atmosphere via the atmosphere opening tube and the atmosphere opening valve. The suction pump 27 discharges the sucked waste liquid (waste ink) to a waste liquid storage tank.

  A wiper blade 30 for wiping the discharge surface of the recording head 6 is attached to the blade arm 31 at the side of the holder 23. The blade arm 31 is pivotally supported and rotated by a driving means (not shown). The cam is swung by the rotation of the cam.

  The recording apparatus of this embodiment shown in FIG. 1 described above ejects ink from the recording head 6 during reciprocating movement in the main scanning direction, adheres ink onto the recording medium 16, and forms an image (dot) on the recording medium 16. Record. Then, the conveying roller 15 is rotated to convey the recording medium 16 in the sub-scanning direction, and recording in the main scanning direction is repeated to form an image on the recording medium 16.

  However, when the recording medium 16 is transported by rotating the transport roller 15, a slight shift in the transport amount occurs. As a result, even if the recording medium 16 is conveyed by a predetermined amount, the recording position of the recording medium 16 (the recording position at which an image is actually recorded on the recording medium 16) is the original ideal position (the image is to be recorded on the recording medium 16). The original recording position is shifted.

  The causes of the deviation in the conveyance amount can be broadly classified into those caused by the recording medium 16 and those caused by the conveyance roller 15.

  First, what is caused by the recording medium 16 will be described.

  As a result of the recording medium 16, there are conditions in which the contact state with the transport roller 15 and the friction state fluctuate. For example, the width (A0 to A5 size, etc.), thickness, friction coefficient, etc. of the recording medium 16 can be mentioned. The positional deviation correction of the conveyance amount of the recording medium 16 is preferably performed for each condition such as the size, thickness, type, and paper quality of the recording medium 16 to be used because the conditions of the conveyance roller 15 in the recording apparatus are fixed.

  Next, factors on the transport roller 15 side will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing fluctuations in the carry amount of the carry roller 15. In FIG. 2, the vertical axis represents the feed fluctuation amount, and the horizontal axis represents the transport amount. As can be seen from FIG. 2, the conveyance amount of the recording medium 16 can be expressed by the following two components.

  The first is a fixed component (A in FIG. 2) within one rotation of the roller depending on the type of the recording medium 16, the recording apparatus, and the environment.

  The second is a fluctuation component (B in FIG. 2) having a cycle of one rotation of the roller depending on roller accuracy, roller deflection, and attachment of the roller support member. That is, the conveyance amount of the recording medium 16 can be approximated by adding these two components.

  Incidentally, since the fixed component (A in FIG. 2) depends on the use environment, the registration adjustment needs to be performed in an environment where the recording operation is actually performed. On the other hand, since the fluctuation component (B in FIG. 2) depends on the individual, the adjustment may be performed once at the time of shipment.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the difference in the medium conveyance amount depending on the cross-sectional shape of the conveyance roller 15. However, it is assumed that the rotation angle of the conveying roller 15 for conveying the recording medium 16 is uniform.

  When the cross-sectional shape of the transport roller 15 is a perfect circle, the transport amount when the transport roller 15 is rotated by an angle “R” is the same L0 at any position as shown in FIG. However, when the cross section of the transport roller 15 has an irregular shape, the transport amount when the transport roller 15 is rotated by an angle “R” varies depending on the rotational position of the transport roller 15. For example, as shown in FIG. 3B, when the cross section of the conveying roller 15 is an ellipse, the recording medium 16 is conveyed by L1 at a certain position. Further, the recording medium 16 is conveyed by L2 at different positions. In this case, there is a relationship of L1> L0> L2, and conveyance fluctuations depending on the roller cycle occur. The transport amounts L0, L1, and L2 substantially coincide with the arc length at the angle “R”.

  When there is such a variation in the conveyance amount depending on the roller cycle, the actual image is affected. When there is a variation in the conveyance amount depending on the roller cycle, it means that the landing position of the droplet is biased depending on the rotation position of the conveyance roller 15.

  In FIG. 3, the generation of the conveyance amount fluctuation component within one rotation of the conveyance roller 15 has been described using the difference in whether the cross-sectional shape of the conveyance roller 15 is a perfect circle or an ellipse. Causes of fluctuation components include not only the cross-sectional shape of the transport roller 15, but also, for example, the transport roller due to the influence of the rotation axis deviation (eccentricity) of the transport roller 15, deflection of the transport roller 15, or the surrounding temperature or humidity. Other factors such as 15 swelling are also possible.

  Next, the influence on the recording due to the variation in the conveyance amount depending on the roller cycle will be considered.

  First, when the position of the transport roller 15 is at L1 in FIG. 3B, the transport amount of the recording medium 16 becomes larger than usual, so that the recording is performed below the position where recording is actually desired (backward in the transport direction). become.

  On the other hand, when the position of the transport roller 15 is at L2 in FIG. 3B, the transport amount of the recording medium 16 is smaller than normal, so the image to be recorded is recorded above the ideal position (in the transport direction). Will be. For this reason, a density difference occurs when an image having a uniform density is recorded. This unevenness is remarkably confirmed in a single image such as a background of a landscape image, which is an adverse effect of high-quality printing.

  Usually, when adjusting the conveyance amount, it means adjusting a fixed component (A in FIG. 2) depending on the type of the recording medium 16, the recording apparatus, and the environment. In the conventional technique, the shift amount of the transport amount is derived using the adjustment pattern and used as the transport adjustment value. However, the position at which the adjustment value of the fixed component is acquired changes depending on the timing at which the registration adjustment operation is performed due to the influence of the above-described fluctuation component.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating a change in the conveyance amount depending on the position (phase) of the conveyance roller 15. When the registration adjustment is performed at the position (1) in FIG. 4, an adjustment value larger than the fixed component is acquired, and an adjustment value smaller than the fixed component is acquired at the position (3). By deriving the conveyance amount adjustment value at the position (2) in FIG. 4, the amount corresponding to the fixed component can be derived almost correctly. However, since the fluctuation component depends on the roller accuracy in the conveying roller 15, the deflection of the roller, and the attachment of the roller support member as described above, it is generally difficult to specify this position.

  However, as described above, the variation in the conveyance amount varies with a period corresponding to one rotation of the conveyance roller 15. In particular, as shown in FIG. 2, when the fluctuation cycle can be approximated by one cycle of the sin function, the absolute values of the fluctuation amounts at the two points corresponding to 1/2 rotation of the transport roller 15 are the same. Thus, it can be understood that the positive and negative fluctuation amounts are opposite.

  For this reason, the recording apparatus of the present embodiment forms a plurality of test patterns on the recording medium 16 using the recording head 6 mounted on the carriage 5. Then, a plurality of test patterns formed on the recording medium 16 are detected using the reading sensor 30 mounted on the carriage 5, and a variation in the conveyance amount of the conveyance roller 15 is detected based on the interval between the test patterns. . Then, based on the detection result, the driving of the transport roller 15 is controlled, and the fluctuation of the transport amount in the sub-scanning direction by the transport roller 15 is adjusted. Thereby, fluctuations in the transport amount in the sub-scanning direction by the transport roller 15 can be reduced.

  However, when the carriage 5 is tilted in the sub-scanning direction, the nozzle angle moves in the sub-scanning direction. Even if the carriage 5 is tilted in the sub-scanning direction, there is no particular problem if the angle of the carriage 5 tilted in the sub-scanning direction (the tilt amount of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction) is always constant at the position in the main scanning direction. . However, if the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction varies according to the position of the carriage 5 in the main scanning direction, the recording position in the sub-scanning direction of the recording head 6 mounted on the carriage 5 also varies. The pattern itself will not be accurate. Based on the amount of dot deviation obtained from an inaccurate test pattern, even if the variation in the conveyance amount in the sub-scanning direction by the conveyance roller 15 is adjusted, incorrect adjustment will be performed, resulting in variation in the conveyance amount. Cannot be adjusted correctly.

  For this reason, when the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction varies depending on the position in the main scanning direction, the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction can be adjusted manually, or the carriage 5 or the main support guide rod It is necessary to replace 3 etc.

  Factors that change the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction include an assembly error of the carriage 5 and a secular change such as shaving of the main support guide rod 3. As a result, even if the drive of the transport roller 15 is controlled based on the detection result obtained by detecting the test pattern including the error, the variation in the transport amount in the sub-scanning direction by the transport roller 15 is reduced. I can't. Further, if the driving of the transport roller 15 is controlled based on the detection result obtained by detecting the test pattern including an error, the transport amount may be increased.

  If the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction varies depending on the position in the main scanning direction, an image is formed at a position different from the original formation position (ideal position) even if image formation is performed. Will end up. For this reason, the printing apparatus according to the present embodiment performs control so that image formation is not performed when the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction varies depending on the position in the main scanning direction. Thereby, erroneous image formation can be avoided in advance.

  If the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction differs depending on the position in the main scanning direction, it is necessary to adjust the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction. For this reason, when the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction differs depending on the position in the main scanning direction, the recording apparatus of the present embodiment notifies that fact and determines the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction. Control is performed to prompt the user to make adjustments manually or to replace the carriage 5, the main support guide rod 3, or the like. As a result, the user is notified that the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction differs depending on the position in the main scanning direction, and the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction is adjusted manually, The support guide rod 3 etc. can be replaced. Hereinafter, a specific mechanism for detecting the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction will be described in detail.

<Configuration example of printing mechanism of recording apparatus>
First, a configuration example of the printing mechanism of the recording apparatus of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 shows a top view of the carriage 5, and FIG. 6 shows a side view of the carriage 5. 6A shows a side view of the carriage 5 from the main scanning direction, and FIG. 6B shows a side view of the carriage 5 from the sub-scanning direction.

  The printing mechanism of the recording apparatus of the present embodiment includes a carriage 5, a main support guide rod 3, an encoder sheet 40, and a platen plate 31. The carriage 5 includes a recording head 6, a reading sensor 30, and an encoder sensor 41.

  On the platen plate 31 of this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a plurality of test patterns 100 are arranged in the main scanning direction. The test pattern 100 is used when measuring the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction. One test pattern 100 used in the present embodiment is composed of a plurality of marks 101, 102, which are arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the platen plate 31, and the first mark 101, the second mark 102, For example, the distance Ln is about 10000 [um]. Ln is a theoretical distance between the marks 101 and 102, and is a value set in advance in the recording apparatus.

  The recording head 6 includes a plurality of nozzle rows, ejects ink onto the recording medium 16 conveyed on the platen plate 31, and prints an image (dot) on the recording medium 16. The carriage 5 loaded with the recording head 6 moves in the main scanning direction. The printing mechanism of this embodiment moves the carriage 5 in the main scanning direction, discharges ink from the nozzle array of the recording head 6 to the recording medium 16 according to a predetermined printing timing signal, and prints an image (dot) on the recording medium 16 To do.

  The reading sensor 30 detects the test pattern 100 provided on the platen plate 31, and measures the distance Ln ′ between the marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100. Ln ′ is a measurement distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30 and is a value dynamically measured by the recording apparatus using the reading sensor 30. The printing mechanism of the present embodiment detects a plurality of test patterns 100 arranged in the main scanning direction on the platen plate 31 by the reading sensor 30 while moving the carriage 5 in the main scanning direction, and configures each test pattern 100. The distance between the marks 101 and 102 to be measured; Ln ′ is measured for each test pattern 100.

  The reading sensor 30 is configured by, for example, a reflective optical sensor, and includes a light emitting unit 301, a light receiving unit 302, and an imaging unit 303 as shown in FIG.

  The light emitting unit 301 emits light, and the light emitted from the light emitting unit 301 is reflected by the surfaces of the marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100 arranged on the platen plate 31.

  The light receiving unit 302 detects reflected light (reflected light intensity) reflected by the surfaces of the marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100. The light receiving unit 302 preferably uses a line sensor capable of acquiring one-dimensional position information, a CCD, or the like in order to detect the reflected light of the marks 101 and 102 simultaneously. In the present embodiment, a case where the light receiving unit 302 is provided with a line sensor will be described as an example.

  The light receiving unit 302 detects the reflected light (reflected light intensity) reflected by the surfaces of the marks 101 and 102, and therefore the distance between the marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100 based on the detected reflected light amount (reflected light intensity); Ln ′ can be measured. The distance between the marks 101, 102; for example, as shown in FIG. 8, Ln ′ is a distance between the marks 101, 102 based on the number of pixels between the detected edge portions of the marks 101, 102 as shown in FIG. Ln ′ can be measured. If the line sensor has a resolution of 1200 [dpi], the detection interval per pixel is about 21 [um], so if the number of pixels between the edge portions of the marks 101 and 102 is 6, the interval between the marks 101 and 102 Distance; Ln ′ is 21 [um] × 6 = 126 [um].

  The imaging unit 303 causes the reflected light reflected by the surfaces of the marks 101 and 102 to enter the light receiving unit 302. The imaging unit 303 can be configured in such a manner that a microlens is attached to each pixel constituting the reduction optical system or the line sensor.

  The configuration of the reading sensor 30 and its detection method can simultaneously detect a plurality of marks 101, 102 constituting the test pattern 100 arranged on the platen plate 31, and measure the distance Ln ′ between the marks 101, 102. There is no particular limitation as long as it is present, and any configuration or detection method can be applied. Similarly, the arrangement position of the reading sensor 30 is not particularly limited as long as a plurality of marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100 can be detected simultaneously, and can be arranged at an arbitrary position. is there.

  Further, it is preferable that the marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100 are configured with a color distinguished from the color of the platen plate 31. Each of the marks 101 and 102 is preferably made of a material that can reflect the light emitted from the light emitting unit 301. Thereby, the reading sensor 30 can easily detect the marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100 at the same time. The marks 101 and 102 used in the present embodiment are configured to have a size of about 40 [um] × 40 [um] when viewed from the upper surface of the platen plate 31.

<Configuration example of control mechanism of recording apparatus>
Next, a configuration example of the control mechanism of the recording apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The control mechanism of the recording apparatus of the present embodiment includes a CPU 107, ROM 118, RAM 119, storage unit 120, carriage 5, main scanning driver 109, recording head 6, recording head driver 111, encoder sensor 41, reading sensor 30, and paper transport unit 112. The sub-scanning driver 113 is included.

  The CPU 107 supplies recording data and a drive control signal (pulse signal) to the storage unit 120 and each driver, and controls the entire recording apparatus. The CPU 107 controls driving of the carriage 5 in the main scanning direction via the main scanning driver 109. Further, the ink ejection timing by the recording head 6 is controlled via the recording head driver 111. Further, the driving of the paper conveyance unit 112 (conveyance belt or the like) in the sub scanning direction is controlled via the sub scanning driver 113. The CPU 107 of the present embodiment executes a program for calculating the inclination amount of the carriage 5; θ, the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured using the reading sensor 30, and the inclination amount of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction based on Ln ′. ; θ is calculated, and the calculated inclination amount; θ is stored in the storage unit 120.

  The encoder sensor 41 outputs an encoder value obtained by detecting the mark on the encoder sheet 40 to the CPU 107. The CPU 107 controls driving of the carriage 5 in the main scanning direction via the main scanning driver 109 based on the encoder value.

  The reading sensor 30 detects the test pattern 100 provided on the platen plate 31, and measures the distance Ln ′ between the marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100. The CPU 107 calculates a tilt amount in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage 5; θ based on the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30; Ln ′, and stores the calculated tilt amount in the storage unit 120. Remember.

  The CPU 107 performs sub-scanning of the carriage 5 based on the theoretical distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured when the carriage 5 is not tilted; Ln and the measured distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30; Ln ′. The amount of inclination in the direction; θ is calculated.

  FIG. 10 shows a state where the carriage 5 is not tilted, and FIG. 11 shows a state where the carriage 5 is tilted by a predetermined angle (θ). As shown in FIG. 10, the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30 when the carriage 5 is not tilted is assumed to be Ln. This Ln is stored in the storage unit 120 so that the CPU 107 can grasp it in advance. As shown in FIG. 11, when the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30 when the carriage 5 is inclined by a predetermined angle (θ) is Ln ′, Ln ′ is Ln ′ = Ln × cos θ. .

  Therefore, the CPU 107 can calculate the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ by COSθ = Ln ′ / Ln.

  For example, when Ln = 10000 [um] and Ln ′ = 9962 [um], the inclination amount of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ is 5 [deg].

  As described above, the CPU 107 determines that the theoretical distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30 when the carriage 5 is not tilted; Ln; and the mark measured by the reading sensor 30 when the carriage 5 is in the state shown in FIG. An inclination amount θ in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage 5 can be calculated on the basis of the measured distance Ln ′ between 101 and 102.

  The ROM 118 stores necessary information. For example, a program such as a processing procedure executed by the CPU 107 is stored. The RAM 119 is used as a working memory or the like.

<Inclination amount of carriage 5 in sub-scanning direction; θ calculation process>
Next, the processing operation when calculating the inclination amount θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction will be described with reference to FIG.

  The CPU 107 moves the carriage 5 to the initial position, and starts detecting the plurality of test patterns 100 arranged on the platen plate 31. The initial position indicates a start position (outward scanning start position) for detecting the test pattern 100 arranged on the platen plate 31 in the movement direction (main scanning direction) of the carriage 5.

  First, the CPU 107 scans the carriage 5 on which the reading sensor 30 is mounted in the main scanning direction, and places the carriage 5 on the n = n + 1-th test pattern 100 starting from the initial value n = 0 arranged on the platen plate 31. Stop (step A1), the n-th test pattern 100 is detected by the reading sensor 30, and the distance between the marks 101, 102 constituting the n-th test pattern 100; Ln ′ is measured (step A2).

  The positions of the plurality of test patterns 100 arranged in the main scanning direction of the platen plate 31 are managed in the storage unit 120 in association with the encoder values obtained by the encoder sensor 41 detecting the marks on the encoder sheet 40, The carriage 5 can be controlled to stop at the position of each test pattern 100.

  The CPU 107 calculates the distance between the marks 101 and 102 constituting the nth test pattern 100 measured by the reading sensor 30; the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction according to Ln ′; θ. (Step A3).

  The CPU 107 stores the calculated inclination amount θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction in the storage unit 120 (step A4).

  The CPU 107 determines whether or not the detection processing of the N test patterns 100 arranged in the main scanning direction on the platen plate 31 is completed (n = N?) (Step A5), and the N test patterns 100 are determined. Step A1 to Step A4 are repeated until the detection process is completed, the distance between the marks 101 and 102 constituting each test pattern 100 is calculated; Ln ′ is calculated, and the distance between the calculated marks 101 and 102 is calculated based on Ln ′. In addition, the inclination amount θ in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage 5 is calculated for each test pattern 100 (step A5 / No → steps A1 to A4).

  As a result, the CPU 107, as shown in FIG. 13, distances between the marks 101, 102 constituting the first test pattern 100; distances between the marks 101, 102 constituting the second test pattern 100 in order from L1 ′; L2 'The distance between the marks 101 and 102 constituting the third,..., Nth test pattern; LN' is calculated, and the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ is calculated for each test pattern 100. become.

For example, the distance between marks 101 and 102 constituting the first test pattern 100; 'the sub-scanning direction tilt amount of the carriage 5 obtained from; theta _L1' L1 can be calculated from the _{Cosθ L1 '= L1' / Ln} . Similarly, the distance between the marks 101 and 102 constituting the second test pattern 100; the inclination amount of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction obtained from L2 ′; θ _{L2 ′} can be calculated from Cos θ _{L2 ′} = L2 ′ / Ln, 'the sub-scanning direction tilt amount of the carriage 5 obtained from; θ _LN'LN; N-th distance between marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100 can be calculated from the _{Cosθ LN '= LN' / Ln} .

When the detection processing of the N test patterns 100 is completed (step A5 / Yes), the CPU 107 tilts the N carriages 5 stored in the storage unit 120 in the sub-scanning direction; θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{LN ′} based on the sub-scanning direction of the inclination of the carriage 5; determines whether the amount of change of _{θ L1 '~θ LN' (Δθ} ) is a predetermined threshold value (alpha) or (step A6).

The sub-scanning direction tilt amount of the carriage 5; theta _L1 fluctuation amount of _{'~θ LN' (Δθ),} for example, is calculated using the following method.

The amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage 5 calculated for each test pattern 100; the maximum amount of inclination (θ _Max ) and the minimum amount of inclination (θ _Min ) are specified in θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{LN ′} The difference (| θ _Max −θ _Min |) between the maximum amount of inclination (θ _Max ) and the minimum amount of inclination (θ _Min ) is defined as a variation amount (Δθ).
Δθ = | θ _Max −θ _Min |
As a result, the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; the variation amount of θ (Δθ) can be calculated. Note that the above-described method of calculating the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; the amount of variation (Δθ) of θ is merely an example, and it is possible to construct the amount of variation (Δθ) using various methods. Is possible.

  The CPU 107 performs a notification operation when the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ variation (Δθ) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold (α) (Δθ ≧ α) (Step A6 / Yes) (Step A6 / Yes) A7) The user using the recording apparatus is informed that the amount of variation of the carriage 5 has occurred, and the process ends (End). The method of the notification operation is not particularly limited, and is notified by sound or light, notified on the display unit of the recording device, or mailed to an information processing device (not shown) connected to the recording device via a network. It is possible to apply a method of making a notification or the like.

  Further, when the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; the variation amount (Δθ) of θ is less than the predetermined threshold value (α) (Δθ <α) (step A6 / No), the notification operation is not performed and is performed as it is. End the process (End).

In the above processing operation, when the detection processing of the N test patterns 100 is completed (step A5 / Yes), the CPU 107 tilts the N carriages 5 stored in the storage unit 120 in the sub-scanning direction; Based on θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{LN ′} , it is determined whether or not the amount of inclination (θθ) of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{LN ′} is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold (α). (Step A6).

However, as shown in FIG. 14, for each detection processing of one of the test pattern 100 is completed, the sub-scanning direction of inclination of the plurality of carriages 5 obtained by the detection process so far; θ _{L1 '~θ Ln 'based} on the sub-scanning direction of the inclination of the carriage 5; theta _L1' it is also possible that the variation amount of through? _{Ln '([Delta]} [theta]) is constructed to determine whether a predetermined threshold value (alpha) or Yes (Step A'5). For example, when the distance between the marks 101 and 102 constituting the fourth test pattern 100; the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction obtained from L4 ′; and θ _{L4 ′} are calculated, the first to fourth points until then are calculated. the sub-scanning direction tilt amount of the plurality of carriages 5 obtained by detecting the test pattern 100; based on θ _{L1 '~θ L4',} the sub-scanning direction of the inclination of the carriage 5; θ _{L1 '~θ L4'} It is determined whether or not the fluctuation amount (Δθ) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value (α). Then, the sub-scanning direction of the inclination of the carriage 5; theta _L1 fluctuation amount of the _{'through? L4'} if ([Delta] [theta]) is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value (alpha) (step A'5 / Yes), performs the notification operation ( Step A7), and the process ends (End). In addition, when the amount of variation (Δθ) of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{L4 ′} is less than a predetermined threshold (α) (step A′5 / No), It is determined whether or not the detection process of N test patterns 100 arranged in the main scanning direction is completed (n = N?) (Step A'6), and the detection process of N test patterns 100 is completed. (Step A′6 / No), the detection process for the fifth test pattern 100 is started (Steps A1 to A4).

Or theta _L1 variation amount of _{'~θ Ln' (Δθ)} is a predetermined threshold value (alpha) or more; Thus, even without the detection processing of the N test pattern 100 is completed, the sub-scanning direction of the inclination of the carriage 5 It can be determined whether or not.

<Operation / Effect of Recording Apparatus of this Embodiment>
As described above, the recording apparatus of the present embodiment detects the test pattern 100 including the plurality of marks 101 and 102 arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the platen plate 31 by the reading sensor 30 mounted on the carriage 5, Measurement distance between a plurality of marks 101 and 102 obtained by detecting the test pattern 100; relationship between Ln ′ and a predetermined theoretical distance between the plurality of marks 101 and 102; Ln (Ln ′ = Ln × cos θ) The amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction obtained from the above;

  The printing apparatus according to the present embodiment calculates the inclination amount θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction for each test pattern 100 arranged in the main scanning direction on the platen plate 31 and calculates the carriage 5 calculated for each test pattern 100. The amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction when the variation amount (Δθ) due to the position in the main scanning direction is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (α); θ is the position in the main scanning direction Judged to be different depending on. As a result, it is possible to detect a state in which the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ differs depending on the position in the main scanning direction.

  Further, when the inclination amount θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction is different depending on the position in the main scanning direction, control is performed so as not to perform image formation, and erroneous image formation can be avoided in advance.

  Further, if the inclination amount θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ varies depending on the position in the main scanning direction, the fact is notified, and the inclination amount of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ is adjusted manually. Or to prompt the user to replace the carriage 5, the main support guide rod 3, or the like.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment will be described.

In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, when the amount of inclination (θθ) of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{LN ′} is determined to be equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (α). (Step A6 / Yes), a notification operation is performed (Step A7), and the user who uses the recording apparatus is notified that a variation amount of the carriage 5 has occurred.

In the second embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 15, when the amount of inclination (θθ) of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{LN ′} is determined to be greater than or equal to the first threshold (α1). (Step B1 / Yes), the first notification operation to the service person is performed (step B2), and the information processing apparatus used by the service person connected to the recording apparatus is notified that the variation amount of the carriage 5 has occurred. To do. The information processing device that is notified when the first notification operation is performed is set in advance in the recording device. Further, the first threshold value (α1) is the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; even if the variation amount (Δθ) of θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{LN ′} occurs, the variation adjustment of the conveyance amount of the conveyance roller 15 The value is set so as not to hinder the image forming process.

Further, when it is determined that the amount of inclination (θθ) of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{LN ′} is greater than or equal to the second threshold (α2; where α2> α1) (step B3 / Yes) ) Performs a second notification operation for the user who uses the recording apparatus (step B4), and notifies the user who uses the recording apparatus that the variation amount of the carriage 5 has occurred. The second notification operation performs the same processing as the notification operation of the first embodiment described above. Note that the second threshold value (α2) is the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; when the variation amount (Δθ) of θ _{L1 ′ to} θ _{LN ′} occurs, The value is set to a value that causes trouble in the image forming process.

  As a result, the service person can know in advance that the amount of variation of the carriage 5 has occurred, so that the adjustment amount of the inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ, the carriage 5, the main support guide rod 3, etc. It is possible to respond quickly to the replacement operation.

  In order to adjust the amount of inclination of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ, or to replace the carriage 5, the main support guide rod 3, etc., a serviceman handling the recording apparatus is required. For this reason, if the service person knows in advance that the variation amount of the carriage 5 has occurred, it is possible to quickly respond to an adjustment request or replacement request from a user who uses the recording apparatus.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment will be described.

  In the first embodiment, a plurality of marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100 are arranged on a plane on the platen plate 31.

  In the third embodiment, some of the marks 101 and 102 constituting the test pattern 100 are arranged in the groove 200 provided on the platen plate 31. Some of the marks 101 are arranged on a surface such as the groove 200 where the distance from the light receiving unit 302 is different from that of the other marks 102, and the mark 101 and the mark 102 are separated from the light receiving unit 302 when the carriage 5 is not inclined. The distance is configured to be different. Thereby, the distance Ln ′ between the marks 101 and 102 can be calculated more clearly than in the first embodiment. As a result, the inclination amount θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction can be calculated with high accuracy. Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described in detail.

<Configuration example of printing mechanism of recording apparatus>
First, a configuration example of the printing mechanism of the recording apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17. FIG. 16 shows a top view of the carriage 5, and FIG. 17 shows a side view of the carriage 5. 17A shows a side view of the carriage 5 from the main scanning direction, and FIG. 17B shows a side view of the carriage 5 from the sub-scanning direction.

  Unlike the first embodiment, the platen plate 31 of the present embodiment is provided with a groove 200. When ink is ejected from the recording head 6 to the recording medium 16, the recording medium 16 absorbs moisture, thereby causing cockling in which the recording medium 16 undulates. For this reason, the platen plate 31 of the present embodiment is provided with a groove 200 of about 1 mm in order to allow the recording medium 16 to escape. In the present embodiment, a part of the marks 101 constituting the test pattern 100 is arranged in the groove 200 provided in advance on the platen plate 31.

<Inclination amount of carriage 5 in sub-scanning direction; θ calculation process>
Next, the processing operation when calculating the inclination amount θ of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction will be described.

  The calculation process of this embodiment performs the same process as that of the first embodiment shown in FIG. However, in this embodiment, since some marks 101 constituting the test pattern 100 are arranged in the groove 200, the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30; the value of Ln ′ is the first embodiment. Is different.

  FIG. 18 shows a state where the carriage 5 is not tilted, and FIG. 19 shows a state where the carriage 5 is tilted by a predetermined angle (θ). As shown in FIG. 18, it is assumed that the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30 when the carriage 5 is not tilted is Ln. This Ln is stored in the storage unit 120 so that the CPU 107 can grasp it in advance. As shown in FIG. 19, when the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30 when the carriage 5 is tilted by a predetermined angle (θ) is Ln ′, Ln ′ is Ln ′ = Ln × cos θ + h × sin θ. It becomes. However, h corresponds to the difference between the distance between the light receiving unit 302 and the mark 101 and the distance between the light receiving unit 302 and the mark 102 when the carriage 5 is not tilted.

  In the present embodiment, since some of the marks 101 constituting the test pattern 100 are arranged on a surface whose distance from the light receiving portion 302 such as the groove 200 is different from that of the mark 102, the carriage 5 has a predetermined angle ( The distance Ln ′ between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30 when tilted by θ) can be made larger by h × sin θ than in the first embodiment. Therefore, the tilt amount θ in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage 5 can be calculated with high accuracy.

  For example, when Ln = 10000 [um], Ln ′ = 10400 [um], and h = 5000 [um], the inclination amount of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction; θ is 5 [deg].

  As described above, the CPU 107 determines that the theoretical distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30 when the carriage 5 is not tilted; Ln; and the mark measured by the reading sensor 30 when the carriage 5 is in the state shown in FIG. An inclination amount θ in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage 5 can be calculated on the basis of the measured distance Ln ′ between 101 and 102.

  The above-described embodiment is a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment alone, and various modifications are made without departing from the gist of the present invention. Implementation is possible.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the test pattern 100 is arranged on the platen plate 31 and the test pattern 100 arranged on the platen plate 31 is detected. However, in the case of the aspects of the first and second embodiments, the test chart 300 shown in FIG. 20 in which the test pattern 100 described above is formed is prepared, and the tests arranged on the test chart 300 shown in FIG. It can also be constructed to detect the pattern 100. In this case, the test chart 300 is loaded on the platen plate 31 or transported.

  In the above embodiment, the test pattern 100 detection process is performed during the forward movement. However, it is also possible to construct such that detection processing is performed even when moving on the return path. In this case, the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured during the forward movement; Ln ′ = L1 ′ to LN ′ and the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured during the backward movement; Ln ′ = LN ′ to L1 ′ are averaged. It will be. Accordingly, the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured by the reading sensor 30; the error of Ln ′ is reduced and the distance between the marks 101 and 102 measured during the reciprocating movement; the tilt amount of the carriage 5 in the sub-scanning direction based on Ln ′; θ Can be calculated.

  Further, the adjustment of variation in the conveyance amount of the conveyance roller 15 performed by the above-described recording apparatus of the present embodiment is not particularly limited, and any adjustment method can be applied.

  Further, the control operation of each unit constituting the recording apparatus of the present embodiment described above can be executed using hardware, software, or a combined configuration of both.

  In the case of executing processing using software, it is possible to install and execute a program in which a processing sequence is recorded in a memory in a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware. Alternatively, the program can be installed and executed on a general-purpose computer capable of executing various processes.

  For example, the program can be recorded in advance on a hard disk or ROM (Read Only Memory) as a recording medium. Alternatively, the program can be stored (recorded) temporarily or permanently in a removable recording medium. Such a removable recording medium can be provided as so-called package software. Examples of the removable recording medium include a floppy (registered trademark) disk, a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), an MO (Magneto optical) disk, a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a magnetic disk, and a semiconductor memory.

  The program is installed in the computer from the removable recording medium as described above. In addition, it is wirelessly transferred from the download site to the computer. In addition, it is transferred to the computer via a network by wire.

  The recording apparatus according to the present embodiment is not only executed in time series according to the processing operation described in the above embodiment, but also the processing capability of the apparatus that executes the process, or in parallel or individually as required. It is also possible to build to run on

  The present invention is suitable for an ink jet recording apparatus.

5 Carriage 6 Recording Head 16 Recording Medium 30 Reading Sensor 31 Platen Plate 41 Encoder Sensor 40 Encoder Sheet 100 Test Pattern 101 First Mark 102 Second Mark 107 CPU
109 Main scanning driver 111 Recording head driver 112 Paper transport unit 113 Sub scanning driver 118 ROM
119 RAM
120 storage unit 200 groove 300 test chart

JP 2007-261262 A

Claims (8)

A recording apparatus that scans a carriage in a main scanning direction and records an image on a recording medium using a recording head mounted on the carriage,
Detecting means mounted on the carriage and detecting a plurality of test patterns composed of a plurality of marks arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the test chart or on the platen by scanning the carriage in the main scanning direction;
In the sub-scanning direction of the carriage obtained from the relationship between the measured distance between the plurality of marks obtained by the detection means detecting each test pattern and the theoretical distance between the plurality of predetermined marks. A calculating means for calculating the amount of inclination;
When the amount of variation in the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage calculated by the calculation means for each test pattern is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage is the main amount. Judging means for judging that the position differs depending on the position in the scanning direction;
A recording apparatus comprising:   The recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a notifying unit that notifies that when the amount of fluctuation is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The notification means includes
First notification means for notifying the information processing apparatus connected to the recording apparatus via a network when the fluctuation amount is equal to or greater than a first threshold;
Second notification means for notifying a user using the recording apparatus when the fluctuation amount is equal to or greater than a second threshold value (where the second threshold value is greater than the first threshold value);
The recording apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising:   A part of the plurality of marks arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the platen plate is arranged on a surface having a distance from the detection unit different from the other part of the plurality of marks. Item 4. The recording device according to any one of Items 1 to 3.   The recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein some of the plurality of marks are arranged in grooves provided on the platen plate. The detection means includes
6. A recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of marks constituting one test pattern are detected simultaneously. A control method performed by a recording apparatus that scans a carriage in a main scanning direction and records an image on a recording medium using a recording head mounted on the carriage,
Detection that uses a detection means mounted on the carriage to detect a plurality of test patterns that are composed of a plurality of marks arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the test chart or on the platen plate and arranged in the main scanning direction. Process,
In the sub-scanning direction of the carriage obtained from the relationship between the measured distance between the plurality of marks obtained by detecting each test pattern in the detection step and the theoretical distance between the plurality of predetermined marks. A calculation step for calculating the amount of inclination;
When the amount of variation in the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage calculated for each test pattern in the calculation step is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage is the main amount. A determination step of determining that the position differs depending on the position in the scanning direction;
A control method characterized by comprising: A program that is executed by a recording apparatus that scans a carriage in a main scanning direction and records an image on a recording medium using a recording head mounted on the carriage,
Detection that uses a detection means mounted on the carriage to detect a plurality of test patterns that are composed of a plurality of marks arranged in the sub-scanning direction on the test chart or on the platen plate and arranged in the main scanning direction. Processing,
In the sub-scanning direction of the carriage obtained from the relationship between the measured distance between the plurality of marks obtained by detecting each test pattern in the detection process and the theoretical distance between the plurality of predetermined marks. A calculation process for calculating the amount of inclination;
When the amount of variation in the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage calculated for each test pattern in the calculation process is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the amount of inclination in the sub-scanning direction of the carriage is the main amount. A determination process for determining that the position varies depending on the position in the scanning direction;
A program characterized by causing a computer to execute.

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